#Japan #Tokyo #Tokyo Innovation #Regional Challenges #Startups Japan

Forum on Innovation to Solve Regional Issues

The Tokyo Innovation Base will be the venue for an important upcoming event, aimed at uniting local governments across Japan to collaboratively address regional issues. Scheduled for November 20, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, this forum is part of a broader initiative to promote sustainable growth through “coexistence and mutual prosperity” between Tokyo and regional areas.

Event Overview

The event welcomes all interested participants free of charge. Details are as follows:

• - Date: November 20, 2026 (Friday)
• - Time: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM (Venue opens at 10:30 AM)
• - Location: 2nd Floor, Tokyo Innovation Base (3-8-3 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo)
• - Participation Fee: Free
• - Registration URL: Sign Up Here (Registration closes on November 19, 2026, at 12:00 PM, but same-day participation is welcome)

Main Event Highlights

The forum will feature several key activities designed to facilitate dialogue and showcase innovative solutions:

1. Keynote Addresses by Participating Governors

Governors from Niigata, Ishikawa, Gifu, and Tokyo will engage in discussions surrounding the challenges each region faces while exchanging ideas on collaboration and strategies.

• - Speakers:

- Hideyo Hanazumi, Governor of Niigata Prefecture
- Yoshinori Yamano, Governor of Ishikawa Prefecture (participating online)
- Yoshihide Ezaki, Governor of Gifu Prefecture
- Yuriko Koike, Governor of Tokyo

2. Presentations on Achievements from Government and Start-up Collaborations

This session will highlight successful collaborations between the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and startups, focusing on bear countermeasure initiatives utilizing innovative technologies.

• - Featured Startups:

- SkySeeker Co. (Utilizing drone technology to create “safety maps” to keep bears away)
- Crew Systems (Employing AI-based cameras for real-time detection and reporting of bear sightings)

3. Product Introductions and Achievement Presentations by Winning Startups

Startups that triumphed in pitch events addressing heavy snowfall and sustainable agriculture will present their products and discuss the outcomes of their initiatives.

• - Winning Startups:

- Alpine Create Co. (Recognized for snow hazard prevention at residential areas in heavy snowfall regions)
- ineRobo Co. (Awarded for promoting sustainable agriculture in hilly and mountainous areas)

4. Networking Opportunities and Vendor Exhibitions

Participants will have the chance to network with each other, and various organizations involved in the event will set up exhibition booths to showcase their initiatives.

Members of the media interested in covering the event are encouraged to reach out for separate guidelines and assistance.

Conclusion

This forum represents a pivotal step in advancing the '2050 Tokyo Strategy,' particularly focusing on Strategy 27 “All Japan,” which emphasizes the importance of mutual support and development among regions across the nation. By addressing regional challenges in collaboration with startups and local governments, this event aims to pave the way for a more sustainable and prosperous future for all of Japan.