In April, the Global Innovation Center (CIC) from Silicon Valley opened its second Asian location, CIC Fukuoka. Through a public-private partnership involving the prefecture, city, financial institutions, and universities, CIC Fukuoka will provide consistent support for seed-stage companies that are tackling local issues, as well as growing companies that are aiming for the global market.

The facility provides access to 16 meeting spaces and open seating for 80,000 yen per month. Original coffee mugs made of local Koishiwara-yaki pottery and a Global Business Support Desk run by Fukuoka City will integrate local cultural and administrative resources.

Over the next five years, CIC Fukuoka will deepen ties with investors and research institutions within and outside the prefecture while supporting the resident companies in raising funds and expanding overseas. It is expected to play a role in pushing Kyushu toward becoming a center for innovation.

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