Japan SME subsidies announced for business succession and productivity

Various business support and subsidy programs have been announced for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Japan, specifically targeting business succession, M&A, and productivity improvements.

The Tomae Town Chamber of Commerce and Industry is facilitating the 16th round of business succession and M&A subsidies. Available categories include a business succession promotion framework with subsidies up to 10 million yen, an expert utilization framework for M&A activities, a PMI (Post-Merger Integration) promotion framework, and a framework for business closure and re-challenging. Application periods for these programs are scheduled from October 2 to November 6, 2026.

Additionally, Tottori Prefecture is offering the Industrial Future Co-creation Project. This program provides subsidies of up to 5 million yen for SMEs looking to introduce new technologies, develop new products, or expand sales channels. The project is divided into two types: the New Corporate Value Creation type, which offers up to 2 million yen, and the Productivity Improvement and New Technology Introduction type, which offers up to 5 million yen. The third application period for this prefecture-wide initiative is set for November 2 to November 30, 2026.