[FY R8] Sabae City Intellectual Property Rights Acquisition Subsidy

①Overview: Sabae City supports SMEs and groups based in the city in acquiring patents, utility model rights, design registrations, and trademarks to enhance the competitiveness of local industry and foster creative industries. The subsidy backs the IP strategy of local industries (eyewear, textiles, lacquerware) and aims to strengthen technology and brand power in the city. ②Eligible Applicants: (1) SMEs based in the city with a head office or production base, engaged in manufacturing, machine/equipment wholesale, or information services; or (2) groups consisting of two or more such SMEs. The subsidy is offered within budget limits and acceptance ends once the budget is exhausted — early consultation is encouraged. Pre-contact with the city is required before starting the project. ③Eligible Expenses & Content: Patent-office fees for filing, examination request, and evaluation request (consumables, fees); patent attorney fees (consumables, fees); training fees related to the rights (honoraria, consumables, rental/usage, participation); design/trademark design-development costs (outsourcing, fees). The subsidy broadly covers expenses related to acquiring patents, utility models, designs, and trademarks. ④Subsidy Rate, Cap, Schedule, and Application Tips: Subsidy rate up to 1/2. The cap is per project, with one project per applicant per fiscal year: ¥100,000 for patents, ¥100,000 for utility models, and ¥50,000 for designs and trademarks. After project completion, submit the grant application form (Form 1), settlement report (Form 11), income-expense report (Form 12), IP-acquisition summary, evidence of IP acquisition (copy of official gazette), articles of incorporation or member roster and bylaws, tax payment certificate, copies of payment receipts, and grant request form. After review, funds are transferred to the designated bank account.