FY2026 Towada Local Product Sales Channel Development Support Subsidy

①Overview: This is the FY2026 Towada Local Product Sales Channel Development Support Subsidy operated by Towada City, Aomori Prefecture. It supports city-based businesses that exhibit Towada-origin products at out-of-prefecture business-matching events, trade shows, exhibitions, fairs, and tasting/sales events (including overseas) to expand sales channels and develop new demand. Towada products include local agriculture/forestry/fishery products, processed goods using such materials, or goods manufactured within the city through substantive processing (mere selection or packaging excluded). ②Eligible applicants: Individuals, SMEs as defined by Article 2(1) of the SME Basic Act, and groups with bylaws and an established decision-making body. They must have an address or office in Towada City, must not operate chain stores, must have no city tax arrears, must not be affiliated with organized crime as defined by the Towada City Anti-Organized Crime Ordinance, and must not otherwise be deemed inappropriate by the mayor. ③Eligible expenses and content: Expenses paid after the grant decision date are eligible. Categories include honoraria/consignment fees for interpreters and presenters (not for own employees), travel (transport up to 1 round-trip × 2 persons; lodging up to 2 persons; capped by city travel ordinance), consumables (excluding goods for sale), printing, postage, exhibition fees (booth fees, sales commission), booth decoration, equipment rental. Bank transfer fees and grants from national/prefectural/public bodies are deducted. ④Rate, ceiling, schedule, key points: Subsidy rate is 1/2; ceilings are JPY 300,000 (domestic shows excluding within Aomori), JPY 150,000 (domestic events), JPY 600,000 (overseas). Applications (Form 1) must be submitted at least 7 days before the event with residence/registration certificate, tax clearance certificate, event outline, quotes, and Towada-product verification. Performance report (Form 5) is due within 30 days of completion or by March 31, 2027, whichever is earlier. Ordinance effective from April 9, 2026.