#Japan #Tokyo #Infomart #Academist #academmune

A New Era of Collaboration: The Launch of 'academmune'

In a world where the importance of effective collaboration between academia and industry is emphasized, Infomart Corporation, headquartered in Minato, Tokyo, and Academist Inc., based in Shinjuku, Tokyo, announced a groundbreaking initiative. Starting April 2026, they will launch an online community called 'academmune'. This innovative platform aims to facilitate casual and meaningful exchanges between researchers and corporate entities, moving beyond traditional collaboration frameworks.

Background of 'academmune'

The surge in open innovation has led to increasing opportunities for interaction between researchers and companies. However, many existing engagements often focus heavily on specific objectives such as joint research or investments. This has resulted in communication issues, as practical matters take precedence before understanding each other's culture, values, and overarching research visions. To effectively bridge the gap between academia and industry, a foundation built on long-term relationships rather than instant tangible results is crucial.

What is 'academmune'?

'academmune' is an online platform designed to allow researchers and companies to interact regularly. By operating this community throughout the year, it aims to build a solid relationship between both parties. The name 'academmune' is derived from merging 'academic' and 'commune', symbolizing the desire for close exchanges within a shared community that transcends the barriers between academia and industry. To foster engagement, 'academmune' will launch two key initiatives: the 'academmune Meetup' and 'academmune Magazine'.

1. Monthly Networking Events: 'academmune Meetup'

Held once a month, 'academmune Meetup' provides a platform for natural conversations without the formalities of presentations or business negotiations. The inaugural meetup, dubbed 'academmune Meetup #1', is scheduled for April 24, 2026.

2. Quarterly Magazine: 'academmune Magazine'

This magazine will explore the nature of relationships and collaborations between researchers and companies, serving as a catalyst for discussions initiated during the meetups. The first issue is set to be published in April 2026.

Kick-off Event: 'academmune Meetup #1'

To mark the official launch of the project, an invite-only kick-off event will be held, enabling direct dialogue between researchers and companies. This event will comprise 50 invitees—25 researchers and 25 corporate representatives—engaging with the inaugural issue of 'academmune Magazine'.

Event Details:

• - Date: April 24, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM (tentative)
• - Location: Inspired.Lab DTS Space, 6th Floor, Otemachi Building, Otemachi 1-6-1, Chiyoda, Tokyo
• - Content: Discussions around the inaugural magazine issue, networking opportunities, and introduction to 'academmune'

Prominent speakers at the event include Ryosuke Shibato, CEO of Academist, Masaki Izumi, CEO of Shime Corporation, and Shin Kimura, President of Infomart.

Statements from Company Leaders

Ryosuke Shibato expressed his excitement about reshaping the interaction paradigm between researchers and corporations. He noted that many collaborations currently begin on a practical note, which can lead to miscommunications and mismatched expectations. By establishing 'academmune', he aims to shift this focus towards mutual understanding and dialogue, ultimately fostering deeper relationships.

Shin Kimura shared his enthusiasm for being part of this revolutionary initiative. He emphasized the significance of linking researchers and corporations to create new values from their interactions, highlighting that this venture originated from their media 'Less is More'.

Company Profiles

Academist Inc.

• - Established: April 17, 2013
• - CEO: Ryosuke Shibato
• - Headquarters: 202 Yamazaki Building, 2-10-2 Okubo, Shinjuku, Tokyo
• - URL: Academist

Infomart Corporation (Stock No: 2492)

• - Established: February 13, 1998
• - CEO: Shin Kimura
• - Headquarters: 13th Floor, Shiodome Shiba Ryogoku Building, 1-2-3 Kaigan, Minato, Tokyo
• - URL: Infomart

Through 'academmune', Infomart and Academist aim to create an innovative ecosystem where researchers and companies collaboratively contribute toward advancing knowledge and technology.