Tokyo's New Initiative for Startup Support
Tokyo has recently unveiled its latest venture under the "Next Generation Communication Technology Utilization Startup Support Project," also known as the
Tokyo NEXT 5G Boosters Project. The program, which is aimed at fostering innovation and improving the quality of life (QOL) for residents, will see eiicon, as the developer promoter, supporting selected startups with their unique technologies and services.
What is the Tokyo NEXT 5G Boosters Project?
The Tokyo NEXT 5G Boosters Project is designed to empower startups to develop innovative solutions by taking advantage of next-generation communication technologies, particularly 5G and beyond. The project’s focus is on fostering new business models that can deliver substantial societal value and enhance residents' daily lives.
In the latest announcement, eiicon revealed that two startups—
Cellid and
Mori Mirai—have been selected to receive support under this program. Furthermore, eiicon is seeking collaborative companies that can contribute to the development of products and services offered by these startups.
Selected Startups
1. Cellid Inc.
Based in Minato, Tokyo, Cellid specializes in the development of display technologies and spatial recognition engines specifically designed for augmented reality (AR) glasses. Their mission,
"Blending the Physical and Digital Worlds," underscores their commitment to creating enhanced information tools that seamlessly integrate the real and digital realms.
2. Mori Mirai Inc.
Also headquartered in Minato, Mori Mirai’s mission revolves around achieving a
"Sustainable Forest" through its wood material platform,
eTREE. This innovative platform targets designers and architects, promoting sustainable forestry and societal development through wood coordination services.
Collaborative Innovation and Opportunities
Eiicon’s initiative invites businesses and organizations with relevant fields or assets capable of utilizing advanced communication technologies to participate in collaborative projects with the chosen startups. With the rapid advancements in communication technology promising ultra-fast connections and real-time data exchange, the potential for value enhancement for both startups and their partnered businesses is significant.
The collaborative projects will help bridge the gap between innovation and market needs by leveraging diverse resources. Eiicon aims to provide multifaceted support through business development assistance, network utilization, and communications support, ultimately creating new societal value.
Call for Collaborators
Eiicon is currently seeking businesses that meet the following criteria to join as collaborative partners:
- - Must possess a legal entity within Japan.
- - Show enthusiasm towards collaborating with startups for innovative project development through validation experiments utilizing next-gen communication technology.
- - Have relevant technology, services, or experimental fields that align with next-gen communication innovation.
- - Be supportive of bringing the solutions from selected startups to the market.
Application Timeline
The application period runs from December 12, 2023, to September 30, 2024. Interested parties can submit their applications through the provided entry form
here, along with supplementary materials such as company profiles and collaborative project ideas.
Support Structure of the Project
The Tokyo NEXT 5G Boosters Project represents a significant step forward in enhancing the capabilities of local startups. By facilitating access to cutting-edge technologies and collaborative opportunities, the initiative not only aims to elevate the startups' value but also to significantly enhance the quality of life for Tokyo’s residents.
Ultimately, eiicon is committed to promoting open innovation by establishing a robust ecosystem where startups can thrive with the right support and partnerships, paving the way for groundbreaking advancements in urban living.
For more detailed information about the project, visit the official site
here.