Many people think a subsidy is money that arrives before the purchase. It is not. In Japan's main programs you pay everything first, then receive the government's share.
The steps (IT program)
Per the official manual of the デジタル化・AI導入補助金2026:
- 交付申請: the application.
- 交付決定: the grant decision. Only now may you sign.
- Sign, implement and pay 100% of the cost.
- 事業実績報告: report with receipts.
- Amount confirmed and subsidy paid.
- Effect reports in following years.
How long it takes: a real example
In round 19 of the 持続化補助金, applications closed on 30 Apr 2026, the project period runs from the 交付決定 to 30 Jun 2027, and the final report is due by 10 Jul 2027. Payment only comes after the report is reviewed.
Planning your cash flow
- Budget for the full amount leaving your account, not just your share.
- Assume the subsidy might not be approved or be smaller.
- If needed, talk to your bank early about bridge financing.
- Use suppliers with clear, documented billing within the project period.
- Subscription (cloud) tools spread costs over time.
Note: rules, amounts and deadlines change every round. Always check the latest official call (公募要領) before applying.
How KGA IT helps
KGA IT helps build projects that fit your cash flow: we split implementation into phases, offer monthly plans (website from ¥5,000/month, Business IT from ¥49,800/month, system management from ¥10,000/month) and issue clear, dated quotes and invoices ready for your report.
KGA IT is not a registered firm that files applications on your behalf, but it handles the whole IT side: choosing the right tool, preparing clear quotes, organizing the technical details of the application, then installing and configuring everything after approval. Services: digital consulting from ¥30,000, security diagnosis from ¥15,000, backup setup from ¥8,000, automation from ¥49,800, websites from ¥49,800 (or the ¥5,000/month web plan) and Business IT from ¥49,800/month. See pricing and services.
The first consultation and quote are free, in English, Japanese and 7 more languages, via LINE, WhatsApp or phone (080-9732-1062). Contact KGA IT now and get your project ready before the next round.