Japan is aggressively supporting AI adoption through subsidies, tax incentives, and support programs. Here's what's available and how to access it.

Major Subsidy Programs

ProgramAmountEligibility
IT導入補助金¥350k-4.5MSMEs (<20 employees for lower tier)
ものづくり補助金¥1M-12.5MManufacturing innovation
小規模事業者持続化補助金¥500k-2MSmall businesses
事業再構築補助金¥1M-60MBusiness transformation

IT導入補助金 (IT Introduction Subsidy)

The most relevant for AI implementation:

  • Purpose: Help SMEs adopt IT/AI tools
  • Amount: ¥350k (Type A) to ¥4.5M (Type B)
  • Coverage: Up to 75% of project costs (lower for Type B)
  • Eligible AI: Chatbots, automation, CRM with AI, etc.
  • Rounds: Multiple per year (check current schedule)

Tax Incentives

Beyond subsidies, tax benefits exist:

  • 中小企業投資促進税制: Tax credit for IT investment
  • 即時償却: Immediate depreciation for qualifying IT assets
  • R&D credits: For custom AI development

Digital Transformation Programs

  • DX認定: Government certification for digital-ready companies
  • TECH GLOCAL: Support for local tech adoption
  • 地方DX推進: Prefecture-level programs vary by region

Application Process

  1. Check eligibility: Employee count, business type, location
  2. Select tools: IT tools must be government-certified ("IT導入支援事業者")
  3. Get quotes: From approved vendors (Greene Solutions is certified)
  4. Submit application: During open application window
  5. Wait for approval: BEFORE starting project
  6. Implement: Document everything
  7. Claim subsidy: Submit after completion

Common Mistakes

  • Starting project before approval (disqualifies you)
  • Missing application deadline
  • Using non-certified vendors/tools
  • Incomplete documentation
  • Not matching subsidy conditions

How Greene Solutions Helps

We're a certified IT導入支援事業者:

  • Help identify the right subsidy for your project
  • Provide certified quotes and documentation
  • Guide through application process
  • 50+ successful applications for clients

See what subsidies apply to your project

We'll check eligibility and help you apply.

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