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K,D,C,,, Food Challenge 2025

The excitement is building as the K,D,C,,, Food Challenge gears up for its 8th installment, launching November 7, 2025, with entries officially opening. Co-hosted by a powerful consortium of companies—including Future Food Fund, Orange Page, CAMPFIRE, JR East (Tokyo Emotion Line), and STUDIO HOLIDAY—this competition is designed to stimulate innovation in the food industry by supporting ventures and individuals eager to bring their culinary ideas to life.

A Platform for New Food Innovators

Kickstarting Novel Ideas

Since 2021, the K,D,C,,, Food Challenge has established itself as a prominent food pitch contest held at the food lab located in Shin-Okubo. This annual event aims to uncover groundbreaking food products and prototypes while fostering connections between emerging entrepreneurs and leading companies in the culinary field. Whether it's a novel dish or a pioneering food concept, all aspiring food innovators are encouraged to participate in this vibrant platform.

The competition isn’t just about pitching ideas; it’s a unique opportunity to pair talented entrepreneurs with established businesses, paving the way for mutual growth in the food sector.

Entry Details and Timeline

Participation for the K,D,C,,, Food Challenge opens on November 7, 2025, at 10:00 AM and will conclude on December 19, 2025, at 12:00 PM. All applicants must possess existing product concepts or comprehensive prototypes to be eligible, with support for students and young entrepreneurs encouraged. Accepted ideas can range from ready-to-market products to innovative recipes awaiting refinement.

The first round will involve a document-based review, leading to a final evaluation featuring live presentations and tastings on February 20, 2026. Judges from various sectors will be present to assess creativity, feasibility, and market potential.

Expert Evaluation and Industry Connections

Final Judging Process

During the final review, a matching format will enable direct interaction between entrants and a panel of specific judges, creating a fertile ground for networking and potential business partnerships. Renowned industry players from companies such as Value Build, CAMPFIRE, Kinokuniya, and JR East will provide insights and help forge connections.

Award Opportunities

The competition features various awards, including the Most Matches Award, celebrating the participant with the highest number of successful connections during the event. Awardees will receive tailored support from the co-hosting firms, including guidance on crowdfunding and branding strategies. The Judges’ Choice Award will identify outstanding concepts or products based on specific criteria laid out by judges, offering interaction opportunities for further discussions and negotiations.

About K,D,C,,, Food Lab

Located above Shin-Okubo station, K,D,C,,, serves as a hub for culinary collaboration and innovation. It encourages engagement in the food industry while fostering the development of new business models and cultural exchanges rooted in gastronomy. This vibrant space plays a vital role in reimagining the local food landscape.

Collaborative Endeavors

The initiative is held in partnership with some of Japan’s most influential organizations, including Future Food Fund—a corporation dedicated to supporting startups in the agrifood sector—and Oisix, recognized for its commitment to delivering organic and carefully sourced food products. Their involvement underscores the K,D,C,,, Food Challenge's role in building a sustainable food ecosystem in Japan.

For more information on the challenge and submission guidelines, visit the official contest page. This is a prime opportunity for food innovators to showcase their talent and transform the culinary landscape—apply today, and let your culinary aspirations take flight!