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Innovative Ideas in Agriculture

On February 18, 2026, the AFJ Agricultural Management School will host its much-anticipated final presentation at the Nihonbashi Hall, Tokyo. This event will spotlight the innovative agricultural strategies devised by students from the Innovator Training Academy, which aims to reshape the future of agriculture in Japan.

Showcasing Tomorrow's Agricultural Leaders

The Innovator Training Academy, operated by the General Incorporated Association AgriFuture Japan, has nurtured a cohort of visionary graduates who are ready to tackle real-world agricultural challenges. This year's final presentation will feature five graduate entrepreneurs, who will unveil their comprehensive business plans designed to transform problems into opportunities in the industry. These business models cover various aspects — from customer identification to value proposition, revenue structure, and execution plans.

Among the presenters is Katsumi Keino, a second-year student and CEO of a construction company, who is determined to leverage his expertise to foster sustainable farming. Despite the decreasing number of agricultural workers, his goal is to develop a profitable farming model that ensures continuity in agricultural practices. He aims to implement direct-seeding rice cultivation in his own fields, utilizing civil engineering techniques to enhance foundational agricultural infrastructure. His project is a testament to the academy's focus on practical application and societal implementation of innovative ideas.

The Finalists and Their Presentations

Here’s a glimpse of the presenters and their proposed business ventures:

• - Junji Kai: A B2B platform aimed at consolidating farmlands.
• - Katsumi Keino: A high-profit agricultural model that promotes infrastructure development.
• - Hiroaki Asahi: Utilizing low-altitude NIR drones to revolutionize small-scale farming.
• - Tengaku Nagayama: A zero-energy refrigeration system for efficient fresh produce distribution in developing nations via franchises.
• - Shoichiro Funatsu: A proposal focused on creating value in meat production.

Emphasizing Collaboration and Feedback

This final presentation is not merely a showcase of achievements but a platform for evaluation by a panel of experts, fellow AFJ members, and stakeholders. The assessments will focus on the significance of each business idea, its feasibility, and potential risks, with comprehensive feedback provided to guide future implementations. This collaborative environment will serve as a fertile ground for exploring cooperative ventures and creative solutions in agribusiness.

Challenges within the Agricultural Sector

Amidst various challenges including a declining labor force and ageing farmers, the agricultural sector in Japan faces structural issues across its value chain. Addressing these requires innovative thinking rooted in current environmental and regional changes. The Innovator Training Academy intends to bridge industry gaps by integrating insights from various disciplines, particularly with an emphasis on IT and digital transformation. By doing so, it aims to cultivate a new generation of leaders equipped to spearhead significant changes in the agricultural landscape.

Looking Ahead

As the agricultural industry continues facing multifaceted challenges, the AFJ Agricultural Management School remains committed to evolving its educational methodologies, aligning them with the changing demands of the sector. With a strong focus on practical application, the school is dedicated to preparing future agricultural leaders capable of driving sustainable initiatives.

We invite media representatives to consider attending this event, either in person or via live streaming. For those interested in covering the presentation, please reach out for further details, including the URL for online viewing.

About AFJ Agricultural Management School

Established in April 2013, the AFJ Agricultural Management School aims to foster future leaders of agricultural management, adapting to the evolving landscape of agricultural education and practice. With a focus on practical curriculum and inter-industry knowledge, AFJ continues to develop unique educational offerings that meet the needs of aspiring agribusiness innovators.