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JFC startup loan

日本政策金融公庫 新規開業・スタートアップ支援資金The government lender most new businesses use

Subsidies pay after you spend. The government-owned Japan Finance Corporation (JFC) lends to new businesses — including foreign-owned ones — to bridge that gap.

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Updated October 26, 2026 · Checked against the official site by our editors

Limit

¥72M

Per JFC’s program page

Who

New

Starting, or within about 7 years

Equipment

20 yrs

Repayment, up to 5 years’ grace

Working capital

10 yrs

Repayment, up to 5 years’ grace

What it is

JFC is a policy lender owned by the Japanese government. Its startup loan (新規開業・スタートアップ支援資金) is for people starting a business or within roughly seven years of starting.

  • Use it for equipment and for working capital
  • Repayment up to 20 years for equipment and 10 years for working capital, each with up to 5 years’ grace
  • Special (lower) interest rates apply to some borrowers — JFC lists entrepreneurs on the Startup Visa among them

Using it with subsidies

Most subsidies pay months after you buy and report. A JFC loan or a bank loan can cover the spending in between. See Subsidies are paid later.

Tips for foreign founders

  • Prepare a clear business plan and show where your own funds came from — see Sending money to Japan
  • Interviews and forms are in Japanese; bring an interpreter or adviser if needed
  • Your residence status must allow you to run the business
  • Ask about current rates and conditions at a JFC branch before you apply

FAQ

Can foreigners get a startup loan from Japan Finance Corporation?

Yes, if your residence status allows you to run the business. JFC lists entrepreneurs on the Startup Visa among those eligible for a special interest rate.

How much can I borrow from JFC to start a business?

JFC’s program page shows a limit of ¥72 million for the startup loan. Actual amounts depend on your plan and own funds.

How long can I take to repay a JFC startup loan?

Up to 20 years for equipment and 10 years for working capital, each with up to 5 years’ grace period.

Sources

This page is a plain-English summary, not legal advice. The official Japanese guidelines always take priority.

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