Japan's M&A and Succession Subsidy Provides ¥3 Million for Business Closures

The Small and Medium Enterprise Agency administers the "Business Succession and M&A Subsidy (15th call) – Closure and Re‑challenge tier". It targets small‑ and medium‑sized firms that have begun an M&A process but did not reach a deal and are now considering closure while planning a new venture. Eligible applicants nationwide can receive up to ¥3 million, with the subsidy covering up to two‑thirds of qualifying expenses such as inventory liquidation, demolition, lease termination, and specialist consulting fees.

Applications are submitted electronically via the J‑Grants portal, with a joint filing by the company’s majority shareholder and the business (or sole filing by an individual proprietor). The deadline for the 15th round is 24 July 2026. Companies must have engaged a certified support agency during the M&A attempt; those that acted independently are ineligible. The program aims to reduce the financial burden of winding down operations and to support entrepreneurs in launching a subsequent business.

A separate overview of various Japanese subsidies lists this M&A aid alongside other measures for small‑business sustainability, digitalisation, and regional development.