[Sapporo City] Up to 5 Million JPY! New Subsidy Program and Expert Consulting to Support SME DX and Wage Increases

Sapporo City has introduced the "Sapporo Digitalization & AI Introduction Promotion Subsidy" and the "Sapporo DX & Wage Increase Acceleration Subsidy" to assist local SMEs in leveraging digital technology for operational efficiency and increased productivity. These subsidies are bundled with expert consulting support. Additionally, online information sessions on these programs will commence on Wednesday, May 20, 2026.

■ Why now?

Local SMEs are facing an extremely challenging business environment due to prolonged inflation and chronic labor shortages. Promoting DX through digital technology is essential to overcome these hurdles and ensure business survival and growth. Sapporo City initiated this program to create a virtuous cycle where improvements in labor productivity gained from DX are passed on to employees through wage increases.

■ Comprehensive Support via Expert Consulting

A key feature of this program is the initial free "hands-on support" (bansou shien) provided by experts. From visualizing management issues and selecting optimal IT tools to formulating DX promotion plans, businesses receive comprehensive support, allowing even those unsure of where to start to participate with confidence.

■ Overview of the Two Subsidy Programs

Common requirements for both include: "headquartered in Sapporo City," "at least one year of business history," and "completion of a DX promotion plan with an expert consultant."

Subsidy Name: Sapporo Digitalization & AI Introduction Promotion Subsidy
Overview: Provides additional support for companies that have received approval for the national "Digitalization & AI Introduction Subsidy."
Subsidy Rate: 1/2 of the original out-of-pocket expenses.
Maximum Grant: 2.25 million JPY.

Subsidy Name: Sapporo DX & Wage Increase Acceleration Subsidy
Overview: Supports companies aiming for advanced DX and the simultaneous realization of IT adoption and wage increases.
Subsidy Rate: 2/3 if contracted with a local IT firm; 1/2 for others.
Maximum Grant: 5 million JPY.

■ Online Information Sessions

Sessions will cover program details and application procedures:

- Wednesday, May 20, 2026, 9:30–10:30
- Thursday, June 4, 2026, 9:30–10:30
- Thursday, June 4, 2026, 13:30–14:30
- Thursday, June 25, 2026, 13:30–14:30

Applications: https://sapporocity-dx.jp/seminar/

[Notice to Businesses Regarding Outreach Calls]

The program's delegated secretariat is calling eligible local companies from "050-3145-0965" (outgoing only) to provide program information. This is a legitimate notification based on municipal delegation and not a scam. The secretariat will never request upfront payments or other financial contributions.