#Japan #Kobe #AlphaDrive #So-I

AlphaDrive Launches New Initiative in Kobe

Kobe's entrepreneurial landscape is witnessing a significant boost with the introduction of AlphaDrive's latest venture—the So-I New Business Development Course. Scheduled to commence in June 2024, this initiative aims to bolster the business development skills of companies operating within the city. To kick off this program, a launch seminar will be hosted at Anchor Kobe on June 4, where professionals can learn about the course and its potential benefits.

Understanding the So-I Program

The So-I Program is a strategic partnership between public and private sectors aimed at addressing social challenges. It focuses on three key components:
1. Insight: Enhancing the ability to accurately identify and understand challenges faced by society.
2. Innovation: Creating solutions through groundbreaking technologies and services.
3. Impact: Implementing effective solutions that result in a significant societal influence.

By enriching companies' creative capabilities, this program aspires not only to solve challenges but also to generate a profound impact on society.

Course Overview

The So-I New Business Development Course is specifically designed to equip local businesses in Kobe with the skills necessary to create profitable ventures from the ground up. This course lays down a comprehensive foundation encompassing the necessary skills, processes, and mindset for thriving in today's competitive landscape.

Key Components of the Course:

• - Training Modules: Participants will engage in core training sessions focused on essential new business development skills.
• - Consultation Support: A support structure will be in place, allowing participants to consult with professionals regarding the training content and new business development strategies.
• - Community Engagement: Access to an online community where participants can share knowledge and support each other will be provided.

Who Should Join?

This course primarily targets businesses with bases in Kobe, particularly those that are interested in new business ventures but are facing challenges or uncertainties about how to proceed. Everyone who applies is encouraged to participate; however, if the number of applicants exceeds capacity, adjustments may be made to ensure fair representation.

Training Schedule

The course features a variety of training sessions over several months:

• - Customer Development / Hypothesis Testing

- Day 1: July 2, 14:00 - 17:00
- Day 2: July 23, 14:00 - 17:00
- Facilitator: Hiroshi Furukawa (COO)

• - Customer Interview Training

- Day 1: August 4, 14:00 - 17:00
- Day 2: August 20, 14:00 - 17:00
- Facilitator: Dai Shirasugi (Senior Director)

• - Prototyping Training

- Day 1: September 10, 14:00 - 17:00
- Day 2: September 26, 14:00 - 17:00
- Facilitator: Ryuji Utsunomiya (Executive Officer)

• - Business Model / Monetization Training

- Day 1: October 8, 14:00 - 17:00
- Day 2: October 23, 14:00 - 17:00
- Facilitator: Kazuma Iwakata (Group Manager)

Important Details

• - Participation Fee: Free, although certain social gatherings may involve nominal costs.
• - Attendance: Physical presence is required at the Anchor Kobe venue, as online participation is not permitted.
• - Location: Anchor Kobe, 15th floor, 4-2-1 Kanoucho, Chuo Ward, Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture.
• - Schedule Note: Both days of training provide identical content, allowing attendees to choose the session that best fits their schedule.

Kickoff Event

A program briefing is organized for those interested in attending the So-I New Business Development Course. This event will cover not only program details but also feature a seminar led by AlphaDrive’s CEO, Yoichi Aso, discussing the significance of engaging in new business development.

Event Details:

• - Date & Time: June 4, 14:00 - 17:00
• - Location: Anchor Kobe
• - Topics: 1. Seminar on the importance of new business and open innovation

2. Overview of the program
3. Optional participant networking session

• - Cost: Free
• - Capacity: 100 participants, with priority given on a first-come, first-served basis.

How to Participate

Attendees must register for on-site participation, as there are no online broadcasting options. The application deadline for the kickoff event is June 3, 2024, at 23:59. Interested individuals can sign up via the following link: Registration Form.

About AlphaDrive

Founded on February 23, 2018, AlphaDrive, headquartered in Tokyo, aims to drive innovation in various sectors by harnessing local talents and fostering new business ideas. With a commitment to societal betterment, AlphaDrive stands at the forefront of this transformative initiative in Kobe.

For further inquiries, please contact:
Kazuma Iwakata, AlphaDrive’s Region Executive
Email: kazuma.iwakata@alphadrive.co.jp

Join us in this exciting journey to develop new business opportunities in Kobe!