#Open Innovation #Japan #Gifu #AlphaDrive #Gifu Prefecture

AlphaDrive Unveils New Open Innovation Program in Gifu

AlphaDrive, under the leadership of CEO Koichi Aso, has officially launched a collaboration initiative aimed at fostering innovation through partnerships between startups and local businesses in Gifu Prefecture. This milestone comes after the company won a bid to implement the Gifu Prefecture's Open Innovation Promotion Support Project, set to kick off in July 2025. As part of this initiative, AlphaDrive is actively seeking local companies interested in seizing new business opportunities through collaboration with startups.

Background and Objectives

Gifu Prefecture recognizes the immense potential in leveraging startups with exceptional products, services, or technologies. To that end, the local government aims to cultivate an environment where traditional businesses can readily engage in open innovation. The goal is to enhance the success rate of these collaborations and create a sustainable ecosystem where startups can flourish in the region.

To support this mission, AlphaDrive has devised the GIFU New Business Co-Creation Challenge Program, which includes comprehensive training sessions and support tailored to the unique needs of local enterprises. Since its inception in 2018, AlphaDrive has facilitated the creation of over 20,000 new business proposals, assisting in the launch of over 200 ventures. The company has worked with numerous esteemed businesses in the Tokai region, including Toyota Motor Corporation. With this practical experience, AlphaDrive is set to address the challenges faced by local businesses as they embark on their innovation journey.

Program Overview

The GIFU New Business Co-Creation Challenge Program is designed to enhance collaboration between startups and local enterprises. It will feature a range of activities including:

• - Introductory seminars and workshops tailored for executives and personnel across various businesses.
• - Practical sessions for management and higher-level employees aimed at developing actionable knowledge in open innovation.
• - Workshops on new business development targeted at practical teams within local corporations.
• - Networking events and presentation opportunities to foster collaboration and showcase achievements.

The program is structured around four pivotal offerings:

1. Introductory Seminars: Aimed at a wide audience within the local businesses, these sessions will cover the essentials of open innovation.
2. Practical Seminars for Executives: Focused on higher management and decision-makers, these seminars will provide in-depth strategic insights.
3. New Business Workshops: These practical sessions will facilitate hands-on collaboration among teams.
4. Networking Events and Presentation Sessions: Designed to connect stakeholders and share practical experiences.

Upcoming Events

Two introductory seminars will be held on:

• - July 15 (Tuesday) from 13:30 to 17:00
• - July 28 (Monday) from 13:30 to 17:00

Despite being separate sessions, they will cover identical content. The seminars are free of charge and will be hosted at:

• - Innovator's Village on July 15. Located at 3-7-20, Yabuta Minami, Gifu City, travel information is available on their website.
• - Softopia Japan Center on July 28, specifically in the Special Conference Room on the 10th floor. More details can be found on their website.

Registration Information: Interested businesses should sign up by the day before each seminar’s date using the following registration form.

Target Audience

This initiative is catering to:

• - Companies with a base in Gifu Prefecture that are looking to create new business opportunities through collaboration.
• - Professionals keen on gaining systematic knowledge in open innovation and new business development.
• - Business development staff or decision-makers looking to spearhead new venture initiatives within their organizations.

Conclusion

Shingo Toyokichi, a Project Manager at AlphaDrive, emphasizes the importance of seeking external support and collaboration. The program promises to be a rich resource for local businesses as they navigate the uncharted waters of innovation. He eagerly anticipates the participation of Gifu’s leading enterprises, hoping this initiative will lay the groundwork for a vibrant new business landscape in the region.

For further inquiries, please contact:

• - AlphaDrive: Madoka Kusunose at ad.region@alphadrive.co.jp