Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare: Regional Employment Development Grant (Regional Employment Development Course)

This is a national employment subsidy program designed to create job opportunities for job seekers in regions with severe employment situations and to revitalize regional economies. Eligible applicants include businesses and sole proprietors that establish business facilities in designated regions (areas requiring employment development such as depopulated areas) and hire eligible job seekers (unemployed persons, etc.). The subsidy amounts up to 2.1 million yen per person (for large enterprises) to 2.4 million yen per person (for SMEs), paid in principle over one year. Key requirements include being a covered employer under the Employment Insurance Act, establishing a business facility in the target region, and maintaining continuous employment of eligible hires. The subsidy is paid in stages based on actual wage payment records, requiring formal claim procedures and documentation.