Located in Kitakyushu, Fukuoka Prefecture, the coworking space "COMPASS" functions not only as a workspace but as an incubation facility nurturing the next generation of startups. We spoke with Mr. Fukuoka, the operations manager who is striving to create a new wave of innovation in Kitakyushu, a city known for manufacturing, about the reality of startup support and the potential for regional business creation.

When you think of Shibuya, images of the famous Scramble Crossing and the Hachiko statue might come to mind. Yet beneath its reputation as a youth culture mecca and tourist destination, Shibuya is rapidly emerging as one of Japan's most dynamic startup ecosystems, with a distinct focus on diversity and global scope.

In Japan, where population decline is a pressing issue, startups are seen as the key to the country's economic growth. In 2023, The Tokyo Metropolitan Government established "Tokyo Innovation Base (TIB)," Japan's largest startup support hub.

A unique startup support initiative is underway in Beppu City, the hot spring town with a population of 110,000. B-biz Link, established in 2017 as the operational arm for the "Tourism Valley Initiative," leading in this effort.

Naruhiro Nagao works on regional revitalization through the operation of coworking spaces. This article explores the possibilities of a new business model originating from regional Japan, breaking away from the Tokyo-centric development.

Over the past few years, the Japanese startup scene has grown by leaps and bounds. Despite the pandemic, Japanese startups have attracted a strong flow of investment capital from both the federal and local governments. Please read on for a summary of how to connect with Japanese startups, entrepreneurs, and jobs!