UNIDGE Launches New Business Creation Program in Collaboration with Kitagin Bank and KPMG Japan

UNIDGE Launches New Business Creation Program

UNIDGE, a strategic subsidiary of AlphaDrive based in Chiyoda, Tokyo, is excited to announce the initiation of the "Kitagin New Business Creation Program 2026." In collaboration with Kitagin Bank and KPMG Japan, this open innovation program aims to foster new business themes and recruit collaborative startups. Starting September 1, 2026, the program will open applications for startups to partner with participating companies.

Overview of the Program

At the heart of this initiative is Kitagin Bank, which is dedicated to supporting core regional enterprises in Iwate Prefecture by nurturing new business ventures. KPMG Japan is co-hosting the program, reinforcing its commitment to innovation in the business sector. UNIDGE will serve as a provider of collaborative partner exploration support, delivering hands-on guidance to ensure companies can successfully realize their business goals.

A "Theme Sharing Meeting" is scheduled for September 1, where three participating companies will present their new business themes. This event will mark the beginning of the partnership opportunities with various startups across the nation, paving the way for innovative business models.

Business Themes from Participating Companies

The program features innovative business themes from three companies, listed in alphabetical order:

- Hirano Construction Co., Ltd.

Theme 1: Development of a short-time cooling recovery booth - Ensuring safety even in hot environments!

- Hokuei Shouji Co., Ltd.

Theme 1: Personalized fragrance experience service to find your unique scent.
Theme 2: Cushion experience service that fits people and vehicles using data on body, posture, and vehicle seats.

- Lead Conan Co., Ltd.

Theme 1: Developing an AI for hearing that extracts unspoken expertise from veterans, aimed at small and medium-sized enterprises.
Theme 2: Co-creation of next-generation agricultural support services to promote sustainable farming.

Startups Wanted

This program actively seeks applications from startups across the country that are interested in collaborating on innovative projects.

Application Process

Interested startups can find more details and apply through the dedicated webpage:
Kitagin New Business Program

Schedule (Tentative)

- Application Period: September 1, 2026 – October 30, 2026
- Interview Period: Starting September 1, 2026
- Cooperation Decision: October 30, 2026
- Pilot Testing: Starting November 2, 2026
- Outcome Presentation: February 2027

Theme Sharing Meeting Details

- Date: September 1, 2026
- Time: 16:00 – 18:00
- Venue: Kitagin Bank’s main hall
- Agenda: Presentations on new business themes by participants, and declarations of intent towards collaboration with startups.

About UNIDGE

UNIDGE is a company focused on supporting new business development under AlphaDrive. It aims to realize open innovation that goes beyond mere matching, with a strong dedication to thorough support from conceptualization to execution, ensuring significant outcomes. With a team comprising solely experienced business developers, UNIDGE identifies challenges and designs achievable goals, creating a system that guarantees success in collaborative business development.

In just four years since its establishment, UNIDGE has supported approximately 90 companies, showcasing its capacity to facilitate substantive partnerships and innovative solutions through detailed business insights and database-driven collaborations.