Announcing the Upcoming Results Presentation of the Agora Hon-atsugi Challenger Program

Mark your calendars! The results presentation of the sixth cohort of the HATSU Entrepreneurship Support Program, known as the "Agora Hon-atsugi Challenger," will take place on March 2, 2026, at the BinaSUN Hall, conveniently located just a three-minute walk from Ebina Station.

This exciting event will showcase the diverse projects developed by twelve emerging entrepreneurs who have participated in this intensive five-month program. The presentation welcomes general attendees, making it an excellent opportunity for those considering starting a business, interested in local entrepreneurs in the Kanagawa area, or contemplating applying for the HATSU Entrepreneurship Support Program. For more information and to register, please visit our website.

What is the HATSU Entrepreneurship Support Program?

Initiated by Kanagawa Prefecture, this initiative aims to create a vibrant entrepreneurial community where aspiring entrepreneurs, established business owners, and local businesses gather to support and collaborate with one another. The program fosters the growth of entrepreneurs from the region, facilitating the birth of businesses that resonate with local needs and values.

The Agora Hon-atsugi Challenger

Focusing primarily on the Kanagawa central area, including cities such as Atsugi, Sagamihara, Yamato, Ebina, Zama, Ayase, Aikawa, and Kiyokawa, this program supports entrepreneurs striving to create new value for a better future. The Agora Hon-atsugi provides essential resources, expert advice, and a framework for collaboration and support, ensuring that selected participants, known as "Challengers," receive concentrated assistance during their development journey.

The recruitment for the seventh term commenced on September 1, 2025, and 12 challengers were selected to join the program, ready to present their innovative ideas and solutions.

Meet the Challengers

The sixth cohort consists of inspiring entrepreneurs, each presenting unique solutions to challenges within their fields:

- Aya Abe: Providing parenting support through a collaborative healthcare program, Aya’s idea connects medical professionals closely with new parents, ensuring ongoing support during maternity and early parenting.

- Nobuo Ikedo: Nobuo is developing a high-quality, user-oriented multifunction meter for cars that enhances the value of the driving experience while ensuring safety for custom and racing enthusiasts.

- Yu Ueyama: Aiming to boost employee engagement, Yu has created a program called "CONNECT WORK" that helps employees articulate their personal goals and align them with corporate missions.

- Kenji Oue: He has developed a project management app designed to streamline the complex processes of commercial facility development, alleviating workload pressures on staff.

- Miwa Ozawa: Miwa focuses on inclusivity in art through her "clean finger paint" kits, which promote self-expression among children and people with disabilities.

- Mari Onoda: Mari's service enhances branding through sensory experiences by utilizing scents chosen by employee votes to create a welcoming office environment.

- Osamu Kato: Osamu offers web consulting for temples to help them effectively communicate their values and activities, fostering ongoing relationships with the community.

- Miki Kosaka: Through a community platform, Miki supports continuous learning in music, allowing people of all ages to engage in musical education and activities.

- Ryota Nakano: His AI-powered platform helps match users with ideal regions for relocation based on their lifestyle aspirations, making it easier for individuals to find their perfect habitat.

- Shoma Hatanaka: Shoma developed an app that streamlines business operations for retailers selling on Amazon, facilitating greater access to local products.

- Taichi Hirata: By bridging students with local companies, Taichi's platform provides hands-on experience, enabling students to build their careers while filling workforce gaps.

- Kota Furukawa: Kota aims to promote Shonan culture through an apparel brand that reflects local events and community activities, establishing a sustained cultural presence in the market.

Event Details

- Date: March 2, 2026 (Monday) from 15:30 to 18:40
- Location: BinaSUN Hall (1-4-1 Chuo, Ebina City, Kanagawa)
- Number of Presenters: 12 Challengers
- Participation: Open to the public! To apply, please visit our registration link.

About Agora Hon-atsugi

Founded in July 2022, Agora Hon-atsugi is a co-working and incubation office located in Hon-Atsugi City. It supports individuals and organizations, providing a hub for networking and expert consultations as part of Kanagawa’s venture support initiatives. Additionally, it regularly hosts business-focused events to further enrich the entrepreneurial community.

For inquiries, visit: Agora Hon-atsugi
Address: 1-1 Izumicho, Atsugi, Kanagawa, 243-0013
Hours: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM (Open only 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM for non-members)
Operator: AGORA Co., Ltd.
Seating: Private/Fixed Booths (22 seats), Free Space (19 seats).