#Japan #Agriculture #Okayama #WAKU #J-Startup

WAKU Selected for J-Startup WEST Program

WAKU, located in Okayama, has recently announced its selection for the regional startup support initiative, J-Startup WEST, led by the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry (METI) and the Chugoku and Shikoku Bureaus. This program was established in 2023 to nurture promising startups that can make significant impacts in their industries, both domestically and internationally.

What is J-Startup WEST?

J-Startup WEST is part of METI's initiative to bolster the growth of startup companies in Japan. Operating as a localized version of the program, it aims to identify and support innovative startups from the Chugoku and Shikoku regions, facilitating their growth and global expansion. The initiative involves collaboration with private and public support organizations, corporate partners, and financial institutions, all designed to enhance business development and international reach.

Addressing Societal Issues

In recent years, the vulnerabilities in food and agricultural supply chains have become starkly evident due to factors such as geopolitical instability, rising resource prices, and climate change. These challenges emphasize the importance of economic and food security as critical societal issues. In Japan, agriculture has historically depended heavily on imports for fertilizers and production materials, highlighting the need to increase domestic productivity using local technological advancements instead of over-relying on foreign sources.

WAKU is committed to addressing these pressing societal challenges. The company operates under the vision of "preserving humanity's food through glutathione" and has been actively developing biostimulant technology utilizing glutathione, which plays a vital role in plant photosynthesis and resistance to stressors such as extreme temperatures. By focusing on homegrown scientific technologies, WAKU aims to sustainably improve agricultural productivity, strengthen Japan's agricultural base, and ultimately contribute to global food security issues.

Future Prospects

With its selection for the J-Startup WEST program, WAKU plans to enhance its integrated approach to research, development, and field implementation of biostimulant solutions based on glutathione. The company is committed to creating systems that ensure stable agricultural production even in uncertain environments characterized by climate change and volatile resource prices. By leveraging the domestic technologies and expertise it has developed, WAKU also aims to explore opportunities for international expansion, aspiring to emerge as a leading agricultural biotech company that contributes to global food security through its innovative solutions.

Statement from the CEO

Ryousuke Himeno, the CEO of WAKU, expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating, "We are honored to be selected for J-Startup WEST. In an era where economic and food security are becoming critical, supporting agricultural production with Japan's cutting-edge technology is an essential role for us as a startup. WAKU will continue to challenge itself as a company committed to 'preserving humanity's food' through glutathione."

Company Overview

• - Company Name: WAKU Inc.
• - Location: ORIC101, 5303 Haga, Kita-ku, Okayama, Japan
• - CEO: Ryousuke Himeno
• - Established: July 2022
• - Business Description: Research, development, and sales of biostimulants and fertilizers utilizing glutathione.
• - Website: wakuwakudriven.com

Contact Information

WAKU Inc. Public Relations Team
Email: [email protected]