#Japan #Hiroshima #LTS #PANORAMA

The Launch of PANORAMA's 10th Year

In a remarkable achievement, LTS (based in Minato, Tokyo) has been selected to manage the PANORAMA accelerator program under Hiroshima Prefecture's Innovation Hub, helmed by the 2023 fiscal year initiative, “Camp.” This year marks a significant milestone, as the program celebrates its 10th anniversary while also entering its third year under the PANORAMA brand.

Introduction to the Program

The “Camps” initiative by Hiroshima Prefecture focuses on fostering regional vitality through innovation. It aims to create a vibrant startup ecosystem by aligning 'Challengers'—those with innovative business ideas and products—with 'Supporters' who provide valuable mentorship and assistance. The goal is to cultivate a community where both parties learn from each other and grow together.

Last year's program successfully matched Challengers with experienced Supporters, laying the foundation for the PANORAMA community, which has expanded significantly. As we move forward to this year, the emphasis will be on further growth and development of this community, welcoming past Supporters and fostering an ongoing chain of collaboration and support among them.

Program Objectives

The PANORAMA program's development cycle has been structured over three years:
1. 2023 Fiscal Year: Focus on the growth of accepted participants and the expansion of the PANORAMA community.
2. 2022 Fiscal Year: Establishing a mentoring system for Supporters and solidifying the community.
3. 2021 Fiscal Year: Formation of the PANORAMA community and providing assistance to Challengers.

The role of LTS is pivotal in implementing unique support functions, known as the three “Bansou” features, to foster a thriving ecosystem at Camps.

Details of the 10th PANORAMA Accelerator Program

Concept Overview

In this year’s accelerator program, participants are designated as ‘Climbers’ (the Challengers) and ‘Sherpas’ (the Supporters). The program conveys the spirit of camaraderie in tackling the unknown together, encouraging collaboration and community building. Experienced mentors from previous programs are referred to as ‘Legend Sherpas,’ while highly skilled individuals not selected in previous rounds are called ‘Base Camp.’

Program Overview

• - Climbers (Challengers): Approximately 15 spots available. This tier targets individuals or organizations in Hiroshima who already have business ideas or products ready to refine for market fit and business model validation. Support includes a maximum of 400,000 yen in funding, workshops, mentoring events, and more.

• - Sherpas (Supporters): Approximately 15 spots available. Eligible participants should possess specialized knowledge or extensive experience in specific fields. They are expected to provide ongoing support to their matched Climbers. Each Sherpa will receive a standard honorarium of 100,000 yen, alongside opportunities for reskilling and expanding their network within and beyond Hiroshima.

Public Events outlined in the Program

• - Networking Event (Pitch Day & Night): Scheduled for November 19th, focusing on providing a platform for Climbers and stakeholders to pitch, exchange ideas, and foster collaboration.

• - Mid-term Presentation: Set for December 11th, allowing Climbers to share progress and discuss required support.

• - Final Presentation: On February 10, 2027, participants will showcase their outcomes and future prospects, aiming to attract new partnerships and opportunities.

Note: The schedule may be subject to change, with the Innovation Hub expected to serve as the primary venue for these events.

Call for Participants

Currently, applications are open for the program. Interested parties can refer to the following link for detailed information and application methods: PANORAMA Program.

• - Deadline for Supporters: August 7th
• - Deadline for Challengers: August 30th

For inquiries, please contact the PANORAMA office at LTS via email at [email protected].

This initiative represents a significant push towards building a robust startup ecosystem and enhancing innovation in Hiroshima, establishing a legacy of growth that future entrepreneurs can build upon.