AlphaDrive and Academist Launch Grant Program for Researchers to Impact Society

AlphaDrive and Academist Join Forces for a New Grant Program

In an exciting development for researchers across Japan, Corporation AlphaDrive has partnered with Academist Corporation to announce the launch of the "AlphaDrive x Academist Grant." This program is set to foster collaborative research between academia and industry, enabling researchers to utilize their findings for societal benefit. This initiative is particularly aimed at those engaged in foundational research addressing various social challenges.

Background of the Initiative

AlphaDrive has long been committed to creating a world where every research endeavor can make a significant social impact. Their R&D Incubation Center focuses on transforming research outcomes into viable business solutions, thus empowering researchers to become change-makers.

Previously, Academist has successfully implemented a program aimed at recruiting diverse researchers to take on social challenges through foundational research. With a successful track record, this initiative has supported projects in fields ranging from disaster recovery to drug discovery and animal health.

The newly established "AlphaDrive x Academist Grant" expands upon these previous efforts by offering research funding up to 4 million yen, coupled with one year of mentoring from four executives from AlphaDrive. This collaborative mentoring will include discussions on implementing research projects socially and commercially, leveraging AlphaDrive’s extensive network and development capabilities.

Details of the Grant Application

- Theme: Calling for researchers to tackle social issues through foundational research!
- Application Period: January 27, 2026, to March 13, 2026, 23:59 JST.
- Target Participants: Researchers affiliated with universities and research institutions, graduate students, undergraduates, and independent researchers.
- Eligibility Criteria: Must be engaged in foundational research aimed at addressing social issues.
- Applicable Fields: All research disciplines.
- Number of Grants: Up to 4 recipients.
- Funding Amount: Maximum of 4 million yen.

Schedule

- January 27, 2026: Application period begins.
- March 13, 2026: Application period ends.
- Mid-April 2026: Announcement of selected recipients.
- Early May 2026: Fund disbursement and commencement of mentoring.

For more detailed information, refer to the dedicated website, which will be launched soon: AlphaDrive x Academist Grant.

Upcoming Online Event: Collaborating with Researchers

Prior to the official launch of the grant program, an online event titled "What Kind of Researchers Do Companies Want to Collaborate With?" will take place on December 11, 2025. The discussion will feature AlphaDrive's CEO, Yoichi Aso, in conversation with Academist’s CEO, Ryosuke Shibato, exploring the qualities companies expect from researchers and what is needed for effective co-creation in the field.

- Event Details:

- Date: December 11, 2025, from 19:00 to 20:00 JST.
- Format: Online (Zoom Webinar).
- Target Audience: Researchers interested in social implementation of their studies.
- Participation Fee: Free.
- Registration URL: Event Registration (under preparation).

Comments from Yoichi Aso, CEO of AlphaDrive

"The potential within Japan's research community is immense and ready to be unlocked. The 'AlphaDrive x Academist Grant' is not merely a funding opportunity but a step towards transforming research into impactful societal challenges. Our support transcends financial backing; we aim to provide comprehensive mentorship that steers researchers towards shaping the future through their innovative projects. We believe that the boundless passion of researchers can sow the seeds for new industries and value creation."

About AlphaDrive

With a mission to "unlock human potential," AlphaDrive is a transformative company dedicated to driving change for people and businesses. They operate an R&D Incubation Center that facilitates organizational transformation and the cultivation of talented individuals, continually fostering new technology-driven business development.

For more information, visit: AlphaDrive Official Website.

About Academist

Academist aims to create a new paradigm in academia where resources such as funding, information, and talent circulate organically through proactive information dissemination by researchers. Launched in 2014, Japan's first academic crowdfunding site, Academist, works with various stakeholders to connect researchers with potential patrons, fostering an ecosystem where researchers can thrive.

For more details, visit: Academist Crowdfunding and Academist Corporate Site.