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Japan Airlines' Remarkable Achievement in Startup Friendly Scoring

On May 22, 2026, the Japan Airlines Group was proudly recognized as the 7th best overall in the "4th Startup Friendly Scoring" organized by the Japan Business Federation (Keidanren). This ranking marks a historic achievement for the transportation industry, reflecting the group's substantial contributions to the enhancement of Japan's startup ecosystem.

Keidanren introduced the Startup Friendly Scoring system in 2022 to visualize the commitment and friendliness that large corporations demonstrate toward startups, which are critical to innovation and economic growth in Japan. The evaluation process scrutinizes the initiatives and accomplishments in three areas: resource provision, business and talent incorporation, and business and talent dispatching.

Three Perspectives of Startup Friendly Scoring

Japan Airlines stands out for its proactive efforts through its corporate venture capital (CVC) fund. Their focus on collaboration and co-creation with startups is significant. The airline has advanced its engagement by promoting business carve-outs, incorporating the latest products and services from startups, and establishing systems aimed at supporting employee entrepreneurship and the creation of new business ventures.

In particular, the following partnerships have highlighted Japan Airlines’ commitment to utilizing cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices:

• - Optimization Applications Using Quantum Computing: In collaboration with A*Quantum, Japan Airlines has developed and implemented flight maintenance planning applications utilizing quantum computing technologies. This initiative aims to improve productivity through comprehensive digital transformation and generate new business opportunities while also exploring external sales opportunities for their innovative solutions.

• - Creating a Barrier-Free Society: Partnering with Hellobonny under the concept of "Beyond," Japan Airlines aspires to foster an unbarriered society akin to the limitless sky. Their initiative promotes the creation of new perspectives and connections through in-flight amenities and paper cups, contributing to a richer life for diverse individuals traveling across borders.

• - Establishing Carbon Zero Agricultural Models: Through a strategic partnership with PowerX, Japan Airlines aims to establish a carbon-zero agricultural model alongside consistent high-quality strawberry production throughout the year. They are actively working on cultivation trials to enhance the efficiency of energy use by leveraging solar panels and storage batteries.

• - Investing in Sustainable Technologies: As part of their commitment to striving for a net-zero CO2 emissions goal by 2050, Japan Airlines has invested in American startups Heirloom and Captura to support business expansion in negative emission technology.

Looking Ahead

Japan Airlines plans to continue advancing innovative service and technology development through collaboration with startups. Their ongoing efforts exemplify a commitment to realizing a sustainable and prosperous society, showcasing the transformative power of cooperation across industries. With these initiatives and partnerships, the company not only supports its operational objectives but also emphasizes its role in the larger ecosystem of innovation in Japan, contributing to a future where businesses thrive together.

Furthermore, the airline commits to fostering the startup ecosystem in Japan, recognizing that the partnerships formed today will pave the way for breakthroughs in various domains, laying a strong foundation for tomorrow's innovations.

As Japan Airlines looks to the future, their strategic vision combines corporate success with broader societal contributions, making them a key player in building a resilient economy driven by innovation and sustainability.