Kyoto, aiming to become a hub for entrepreneurship, has increased its number of startups by over 200 since 2020.

It recently held the Infinity Ventures Summit (IVS), attracting approximately 13,000 business leaders and investors over three days for the third consecutive year. 11 events were held, including collaborations with external companies to address regional challenges.

It also held “IVS YOUTH” to encourage children to take an interest in entrepreneurship. About 70% of the participants were from outside the prefecture, and junior high and high school students presented their business ideas, and elementary school students learned about business operations through games.

However, while Kyoto's funding amount surpassed Osaka in 2024 to rank third behind Tokyo and Kanagawa, it remains significantly behind Tokyo, at approximately one-twenty-third of Tokyo's funding amount.

Kyoto has significantly increased its startup support efforts in 2025, allocating a total of 227.2 million yen, nearly three times more than the previous year. Within this, 190 million yen is specifically designated for promoting entrepreneurship in life sciences and new materials.

The city will cover the costs of participating in overseas events to support emerging companies' overseas expansion, and will host exchange events in Tokyo and other locations to connect researchers with business talent from across the country.

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