"Get Ready for Japan" Programme for SMEs


“Get Ready for Japan” aims to help understand Japanese business practices and communication styles and identify opportunities for successful business partnerships. Additionally, the programme aims to provide insights into the decision-making process within Japanese companies and help better understand their negotiation style and hierarchy.

Finally, the programme intends to strengthen existing relationships with Japanese customers and establish new contacts with potential ones, expanding the business's reach and impact.

Programme Content

Exclusive 2-phase Training Programme for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)

The programme consists of two phases.

  • The first phase is an online programme from 19 to 23 May 2025. During this phase, participants will engage in virtual case studies and cross-cultural lectures, gaining insights into the Japanese business environment and management practices.
  • The second phase is an on-site programme in Tokyo from 9 to 13 June 2025. During this phase, SME participants will have the opportunity to attend interactive seminars and workshops and schedule individual company meetings (ICMs) with Japanese companies of interest. The EU-Japan Centre's team and interpreters will support these ICMs, allowing SMEs to explore pre-established or new opportunities for growth and collaboration.

The number of participants for this programme is limited to 14.

Participant Profile

Companies: this programme is open to Managers or Executives working for an SME(*) based in the European Union, or in a country associated with the Single Market Programme, SME Pillar(**); the headquarters of the company must be located in an EU/SMP country. 

(*) Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are companies that meet the standard criteria set by the European Commission to be classified as SMEs.

(**) Please check the status of your country here.

Eligibility

The applicant must: 

  • be a Manager or Executive working for an SME based in the European Union, or in a country associated with the Single Market Programme, SME Pillar ; the headquarters of the company must be located in an EU/SMP country. 
  • be supported by their employer through a signed letter (in case they do not belong to senior management). 
  • be able to participate in the entire programme; a representation by a non-selected candidate is not permitted. 
  • have a good command of English (recommended level B2 or higher) 

While the type of business plays a minor role, candidates from the consulting sector may receive lower priority during the selection process. 

Visit the below link to read further.

Information and image source:
Organisation: 
EU-Japan Centre for Industrial Cooperation
Email: 
see below link
Application Deadline: 
Thursday, March 13, 2025
Further Information: External Link