Ministry of the Environment: Environmental Conservation Research Subsidy - Environmental Startup R&D Support Program Phase 3 (Large-Scale Technology Development & Demonstration)

This is the Ministry of the Environment's research and development subsidy to support innovative environmental technology development and commercialization by startup companies and prospective entrepreneurs. Unlisted small and medium-sized enterprises with headquarters in Japan or individuals planning to start a business are eligible, with a focus on companies established within approximately 15 years. The subsidy limit is up to 400 million yen (maximum 100 million yen per year over a 4-year period), with the subsidy rate calculated as the lower of either twice the amount of financing from venture capital or the eligible project expenses. Projects must raise Technology Readiness Level (TRL) from Level 4 or higher by at least one stage, with a maximum implementation period of 2 years for one-stage improvement. The call for applications runs from May 12 to June 15, 2026, with applications submitted through the e-Rad system; advance registration must be completed with at least 2 weeks of lead time.