#CommunityEngagement

SHAKE H

Global startup conference in Hokkaido uniting founders, investors, and innovators with pitches, workshops, and networking.

Next Kitchen 2026

Started in 2023, Next Kitchen 2026 is a tailored mentoring and business-matching program for Foodtech startups worldwide that are looking to expand into Japan, beginning in Kobe—the City of Gastronomy.

JAPAN STARTUP SELECTION 2026

Regional Japanese startups pitch, showcase, and connect with investors and partners at Tokyo business matching event.

RAMEN TECH -Global Summit- 2025

Slurp up the future

Tokyo Innovation Base (TIB): Creating Value Through Connections

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.

Shisha is booming in Japan. But why?

In the Japanese capital of Tokyo, the number of shisha shops has surpassed the number of Starbucks and McDonalds in the past few years. How has this rapid trend come about?

Kyoto: a haven for creative inspiration and mindful living

Kyoto’s hidden paths, Zen meditation, tea ceremonies, and traditional crafts all inspire creativity, fostering mindfulness and fueling entrepreneurial growth.

Creating a New Economic Zone from Small Business Hubs — The Potential of Community-Based Town Development in Omura, Nagasaki

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.

From Disaster to Future: Sendai City's Startup Challenge - Koji Sakai (City of Sendai)

We spoke with Mr. Sakai from Sendai City about how the region's entrepreneurial support evolved after the earthquake, the growth of their unique startup ecosystem and their vision for the future.

Deep Tech investment firm opens office in Sapporo

Aichi: Japan’s manufacturing hub

Deep Dive in Aichi Prefecture - This area, known around the world as the home of Toyota, is a fascinating area where the history of the Warring States period and cutting-edge industry intersect. The fusion of the atmosphere of a traditional castle town and the world-leading automobile and aerospace industries creates a unique vitality.

STATION Ai grand opening!

STATION Ai, Japan’s largest innovation hub, has opened in Nagoya, blending Aichi Prefecture’s manufacturing legacy with global start-up opportunities.

Blackbox press event and Regional Government Roundtable

Making Entrepreneurship the New Normal at STATION Ai - Ms. Matsuyama, Aichi Prefecture Startup Promotion Division

Building Japan's Future Through Gaming - Matt Bush, Kakugo Digital

Regional revitalization through blockchain and games in Fukuoka. Using NFTs to link the resolution of real-world issues with the fun of games to create new community experiences.

University support for startups

The Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) has been implementing various measures to support the creation and growth of university-based startups.

AI Salon comes to Nagoya for TechGALA

Event Report: BLAST Setouchi Oita

Setouchi Blast fosters community in the Setouchi area. It is a place where you can experience attractive remote islands, art and culture.

Fukuoka City sets sights on attracting digital nomads

Hiroshima Unicorn 10 Tokyo Pitch @ TiB

Check out the 11 Hiroshima Unicorn 10 adopted startups

Japan's largest startup hub STATION Ai opens

Japanese government actively seeking overseas talent to promote “internal internationalization”

What is the 'internal internationalization' being promoted by the Japanese government? Let's take a closer look at the new opportunities and appeal for overseas human resources.

US-based SOZO Ventures establishes 11KS in Japan

HOSPO aims to strengthen ties with spaceports worldwide

New Business Forum held in Shizuoka

Hokkaido's startup ecosystem: support, visas, and networking

Hokkaido offers affordable living, stunning natural beauty, and a supportive startup ecosystem for foreign entrepreneurs. With a dedicated Startup Visa, STARTUP HOKKAIDO provides assistance in English, networking events, and a hub ("Shakouba Young") connecting startups, investors, and local businesses. Ideal for startups aiming to grow globally!

Hokkaido startup growth drives regional economy

Niigata Prefecture holds DX matching event

Startup support expanded in Tochigi Prefecture

Osaka's startup ecosystem: support, visas, and networking

Clarify the ecosystem of Osaka, a city with affordable living costs, excellent business support, and active startup events.

Hamamatsu City launches start-up matching site HAMAHUB!

Osaka joins to Blackbox

Kaga City establishes Kaga Future Salon

Akita Prefecture launches start-up support organization AKISTA

Shibuya Sakura Stage opens to the public

Nagoya City launches youth initiative to revitalize shopping streets

New co-creation base opens in Akita

Sumitomo Real Estate establishes new start-up community

IVS KYOTO is coming again!

South Korea opens start-up base in Tokyo

Government-run Global Start-up Campus announced

Hokkaido, Shibuya, Yokohama, and Kobe Join Blackbox

Tochigi Prefecture strengthens support for startups

Startup support facility YUINOS opening in Sendai City

SHIBUYA STARTUP OASIS provides a free community space for startups

Hamamatsu City launches new Startup Ecosystem community

Outcrop opens multi-functional complex in Akita