Fukuoka City: Asia’s Emerging Gateway for Startups & Finance

Business Establishment Support
Fukuoka offers targeted subsidies for foreign and foreign-affiliated companies that are establishing offices in the city — especially in knowledge-creation sectors such as fintech, semiconductors, software, robotics, as well as health, environment, energy, logistics, and trade.

According to Fukuoka City’s Business Establishment Subsidy program:

• For foreign firms setting up leased offices, they must apply before signing the lease.
• These firms must begin operations within 1 year of application, and maintain the location for 5 years to receive the full benefit.
• This makes Fukuoka especially attractive for foreign financial institutions, R&D labs, or services-focused businesses.

Startup Rent Support
Foreign entrepreneurs are eligible for a rent subsidy for both their residences and business offices for up to 12 months.

• The program covers up to 50% of monthly rent (max ¥70,000/month for housing; ¥50,000/month for office).
• Eligible industries include fintech, semiconductors, software, robotics, medical/health, energy, logistics, and international trade.
• Applicants must have a business visa (Business Manager) or a designated-activities/residential status aligned with startup preparation.

Financial Institution / FinTech Subsidies
Fukuoka Prefecture has specific grants for foreign and foreign-affiliated financial institutions and FinTech firms establishing a base in the city.

• These subsidies cover costs related to setting up offices, R&D labs, or other business bases.
• The support applies to entities like banks or asset management firms, as well as IT-driven financial companies.

Tax & Corporate Support
Under Fukuoka’s “Startup Package,” there are significant tax incentives for new, innovative businesses.

• For startups in medical tech, IoT, and advanced IT, the program offers up to 5 years of corporate tax exemption (national + city tax, depending on the business).
• For foreign-invested firms, the city may reduce city-level taxes when the company establishes functions like R&D, business management, or HQ operations.

One of Fukuoka’s biggest advantages is its quality of life, which is highly attractive for traditional businesses, startups, and relocating executives alike.

• The city is relatively compact but modern, combining urban infrastructure with green space and coastal access.
• There is established support for foreign talent: Fukuoka’s international business team helps with visa procedures, incorporation, and housing advice.
• For families and long-term residents, Fukuoka offers a livable environment with good healthcare, schools, and transport — without the costs or stress of Japan’s largest cities.

The lifestyle appeal, combined with lower operating costs than Tokyo or Osaka, makes Fukuoka a strong candidate for businesses that prioritize both innovation and sustainable talent retention.

Fukuoka’s strategy is not just about attracting offices — it’s building a long-term, globally competitive innovation economy:

• By combining incentives for financial institutions, startup ventures, and innovation R&D, Fukuoka is positioning itself as a dynamic hub for both finance and tech.
• Its role as a gateway to Asia is reinforced by its proximity to other major markets and well-developed transport infrastructure.
• The city’s commitment to knowledge-creation industries (fintech, semiconductors, robotics), health/medical sectors, and green energy aligns with global technology trends.
• Fukuoka’s long-term demographic strength (relatively younger population growth compared to other Japanese cities) supports a positive outlook for business sustainability.

In short, Fukuoka is not just offering temporary perks — it is building a sustainable, future-facing business ecosystem for globally minded firms.