Japanese municipalities launch crowdfunding tax programs for social and economic projects

Several Japanese municipalities are utilizing crowdfunding-style ‘furusato nozei’ (hometown tax donation) programs to fund regional development and social initiatives.

In Gunma Prefecture, Maebashi, and Isesaki, six projects have launched via the Satofull platform. Gunma Prefecture is seeking 3 million yen to provide digital education opportunities for students, including ICT clubs and expert internships. Maebashi is focusing on social welfare, including support for children facing school refusal and multi-generational community spaces. Isesaki is running a project to support community cat management.

In Shimane Prefecture, Matsue City has launched a crowdfunding initiative aimed at supporting local entrepreneurs. The project seeks to raise 2 million yen to fund prototype development, entrepreneurship communities, and business support programs as part of the ‘MATSUE Entrepreneurship Ecosystem’.