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HAKOBUNE STARTUP CONTEST: Empowering Aspiring Entrepreneurs

The innovative HAKOBUNE STARTUP CONTEST has officially launched the 5th Batch of its unique incubation program, specifically designed for budding entrepreneurs. Aiming at both young individuals and working professionals eager to take the entrepreneurial leap, this contest is not just a competition but a comprehensive support system that aids participants in building their businesses from the ground up.

The Impact of Previous Batches

Over the course of its first four batches, the contest has seen significant success, with 22 out of 39 presenters initiating new startups, alongside securing 12 seed funding rounds. These impressive statistics reflect the contest’s commitment to nurturing entrepreneurial talent and positioning itself as one of Japan's leading incubation programs.

Key Features of the HAKOBUNE STARTUP CONTEST

Here’s a closer look at what this program has to offer:

1. Entry Based on Ideas Only

Participants are welcomed to join even if they only have a basic idea without a full-fledged business plan. They will have the opportunity to refine and develop their concepts throughout the program.

2. Prizes and Investment Opportunities

Winners will be awarded cash prizes (not investments). Additionally, all participants may receive investment offers from HAKOBUNE to further support their entrepreneurial journey.

3. Hands-On Learning

Participants will engage in practical lectures that teach essential methodologies for validating business hypotheses and understanding customer needs, providing them with the tools to deeply grasp their business landscape.

4. Networking Opportunities

The program fosters an encouraging environment where participants can connect with each other and established entrepreneurs, thereby enhancing motivation and collaborative learning.

5. Initial Customer Development Support

To facilitate the fast-tracking of their ventures, participants will receive assistance in acquiring early customers, introductions to key industry contacts, as well as guidance on sales methodologies and materials.

6. Access to Exclusive Information Portals

Participants will gain unique access to HAKOBUNE's information portal, filled with resources and benefits that are particularly useful for startups.

Application Conditions

Eligible applicants must meet all the following criteria:
1. Individuals aged between 15 and 50 (as of March 31, 2025).
2. Those aiming to establish a business in Tokyo by the end of the 2025 fiscal year.
3. Individuals who are willing to collaborate and learn alongside fellow participants.

Innovative Business Themes for 5th Batch

For this iteration, the contest is seeking projects that focus on innovative business ideas related to:
1. AI Agent Implementation: Exploring solutions that utilize generative AI for deeper integration in business and daily lives.
2. Achieving Carbon Neutrality: Initiatives contributing to the expansion of the carbon credit market and carbon reduction efforts.
3. Globalizing Japanese Culture: Voluntary projects seeking to bring Japanese pop culture and cuisine to the global audience.

Program Timeline

The contest follows a structured timeline:

• - Application Deadline: September 21 (Sunday)
• - Program Duration: October 4 (Saturday) to November 29 (Saturday) includes lectures and mentoring sessions.
• - Demo Day & Pitch Event: Participants will showcase their projects to investors in late January.

How to Apply

If you are eager to participate in the 5th Batch of the HAKOBUNE STARTUP CONTEST, please sign up through the provided application form link.

Conclusion

This program is part of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government's initiative to foster a diverse startup ecosystem under the TOKYO SUTEAM project. The goal is to exponentially increase the number of unicorn startups and stimulate entrepreneurial activity across the metropolis.

About HAKOBUNE

HAKOBUNE operates under the concept of investing in impactful changes that define the era. As an independent venture capital entity, HAKOBUNE seeks to support non-conventional thinkers and innovators across various sectors. To date, they have invested in over 20 startups in their pre-seed and seed stages, and they are committed to expanding their support through incubation programs and entrepreneurial guidance.

For more details about HAKOBUNE and its initiatives, check out their interactive video here.

For inquiries regarding entrepreneurship or fundraising, visit: HAKOBUNE Contact. For HAKOBUNE STARTUP CONTEST inquiries, email: [email protected].