#Entrepreneurship

Pitchbook: the mid-2026 ranking of VC startup ecosystems

The United States continues to top the global rankings, but China is closing in rapidly and Europe is making its mark with a few surprises.

IVS 2026

Japan’s leading startup conference connecting founders, investors, and innovators to accelerate innovation and entrepreneurship.

B Dash Camp 2026 Spring in Sapporo

Invitation-only startup conference uniting founders, investors, and leaders for sessions, networking, and pitch contests.

Entrepreneurs Roundtable Tokyo 6 at Japan Innovation Week

Entrepreneurs Roundtable is a non-profit startup event series that was started in New York City by ERA in 2007 by Murat Aktihanoglu and Jonathan Axelrod and now has hosted 200+ events in NYC.

Okayama Prefecture adopts new approach to startup support

Kawasaki brings entrepreneurship lessons to elementary school students

Don’t sleep on Kyoto: a city of entrepreneurship

Modernizing banking for foreigners in Japan: Raul Allikivi, CEO of GIG-A

Estonian entrepreneur Raul Allikivi founded GIG-A to modernize banking for foreigners in Japan. He shares his insights on Japan's startup ecosystem, cultural challenges, and the need for trust-based digital services. His vision is to make Japan—and eventually all of Asia—more accessible for migrants through multilingual fintech solutions.

Building a Future Startup Ecosystem from Kitakyushu - The Challenge of COMPASS Kokura

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.

Innovating Translation Technology from a Global Perspective: Interview with Suguru Sakanishi, CEO of Yaraku, Inc.

Yaraku, Inc. is supporting multilingual corporate communication with its unique CAT (Computer Assisted Translation) tool that combines machine translation with human expertise. We spoke with CEO Suguru Sakanishi about his entrepreneurial experience in America, his current business and his vision for the future. From a business that began on a drunken impulse to building a diverse global team

Iwate's young people shine: creating the future through entrepreneurship and business skills

Connecting with the World through Japanese Craftsmanship - Monozukuri Ventures Founder Shares His Entrepreneurial Journey

Monozukuri Ventures has built an innovative ecosystem connecting Silicon Valley startups with Japanese small and medium manufacturing enterprises. We spoke with the founder about his journey that began with a passion for regional revitalization, the strengths and potential of Japanese manufacturing, and how Japanese companies can compete in the global arena.

Mie University makes entrepreneurship education mandatory for all first-year students

Kinki University fostering entrepreneurs through ramen

Startup Visas in Japan: what’s new in 2025

At Blackbox, we've previously written about Japan’s Startup Visa, a visa program that smooths the way for foreign entrepreneurs interested in launching a business in Japan. Until recently, this visa was only available in selected cities, and was valid for only an initial six months.

Shibuya: The Gateway to Tokyo's Startup Success

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.

Japan’s Bold Startup Gamble: 100 Unicorns in 5 Years

The Japanese government announced its ‘Startup Development Five-year Plan’ in November 2022. Now-former Prime Minister Fumio Kishida presented the Five-Year Startup Plan as part of his grand design for a new form of capitalism in Japan. While Abenomics led to higher stock prices and corporate profits, it did not translate into higher wages.

Naruto offers three levels of support for entrepreneurs

Tokyo, the heart of Japan

An explanation of the innovation ecosystem that is spreading in Tokyo, the premier destination for start-ups.

Nagoya announces its budget for FY2025: largest ever

Startup Ecosystem in Yokohama City

Yokohama City has built a diverse ecosystem that provides support to both domestic and international entrepreneurs and startups, making it an attractive city, especially for foreign entrepreneurs.

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.

Kyoto: the heart of Japanese culture

Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital, is renowned for its millennia-long cultural and political significance. The city is home to some of Japan’s most iconic landmarks, such as Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion), Kiyomizu-dera, Ryoan-ji, and Fushimi Inari Shrine, all of which serve as stunning examples of Japan’s architectural and spiritual heritage. However, Kyoto’s appeal extends far beyond its historic temples and shrines.

Kyoto Women Entrepreneur Award