{
  "id": 7004404,
  "title": "Japan’s seniors find a second career in business",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/12/japans-seniors-find-a-second-career-in-business",
  "topic": "business",
  "section": "Business",
  "published": "2026-09-12T21:24:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Qatar Tribune Business",
    "slug": "qatar-tribune-business",
    "url": "https://www.qatar-tribune.com/article/253406/business/japans-seniors-find-a-second-career-in-business"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "In Japan, an increasing number of seniors are embarking on a second career in business, capitalizing on their wealth of experience and extensive personal networks. According to research by Teikoku Databank Ltd, the percentage of newly established companies led by individuals aged 60 and older surged to 20.5 percent in 2025, a 3.2 percentage point increase from the previous year and surpassing the 20 percent mark for the first time.\n\nSupport systems are in place to facilitate senior entrepreneurs in this burgeoning trend, which is particularly relevant in Japan's rapidly aging society. Free consultations with experts, networking events, and public sector assistance such as subsidies are just a few of the resources available. The Tokyo Metropolitan Small and Medium Enterprise Support Center, a branch of the Tokyo city government, is holding a competition specifically for individuals aged 55 and older to present their business plans. Nara Prefecture is offering subsidies up to 2 million yen to support such ventures.\n\nMio Katagiri, president of Ginza Second Life Corp, attributes the more favorable conditions for seniors starting businesses to the enhanced support from both central and local governments. The company assists senior entrepreneurs through consulting, rental office services, and clerical support. Unlike younger entrepreneurs, who typically aim to commercialize innovative services or products, senior entrepreneurs are encouraged to pursue businesses that align with their abilities and experiences.\n\nChizuko Fukatsu, founder of apparel company Fukufuku-Ya LLC, exemplifies this shift. She founded her business in her 60s, highlighting the strength that seniors bring to entrepreneurship through their accumulated experience.",
  "summary": "AgenciesStarting a business after retirement or later in life has been gaining traction among Japanese seniors, as they leverage their experiences and extensive personal networks t...",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}