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eiicon Selected for TIB Open Innovation Program

Tokyo Metropolitan Government has adopted eiicon, the company running Japan's largest open innovation platform, AUBA, as the operator for its "TIB Open Innovation Implementation and Promotion Program." This initiative is designed to generate a hub of support for startups while helping large corporations effectively collaborate to attract more early adopters, referred to as "first customers."

The program, based at the Tokyo Innovation Base (TIB) in Yurakucho, focuses on real-world co-creation through tailored coursework and workshops that align with the specific challenges and expertise of participating companies. Each firm receives dedicated consulting support intended to optimize the outcome of their involvement.

Through hands-on mentoring, face-to-face communication at TIB, and strong project support, eiicon aims to ensure that the knowledge gained translates into practical innovations and tangible results. This collaborative effort extends beyond the classroom, emphasizing actionable outcomes from open innovation.

Role of eiicon in the TIB Program

Part of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government’s startup strategy, the TIB program embodies objectives for "Scale-Up" and "Platform" as outlined in the Global Innovation Strategy 2.0. Eiicon is tasked with driving open innovation activities for large enterprises that aim to integrate these concepts, facilitating long-term sustainable partnerships with startups to create a steady pipeline of first customers.

By leveraging its strengths, eiicon will provide a cohesive structure that connects startups with corporations. Workshops covering goal-setting, project planning, and effective theme design are part of the comprehensive support system aimed at translating open innovation efforts into real business results.

Key Features of the Program

Eiicon employs distinct methods to adapt to the characteristics of both large companies and startups. Here’s an outline of the support framework for this co-creation initiative:

1. Outcome-Driven Seminars: Tailored seminars will clarify the objectives and share insights about open innovation, helping companies formulate specific themes and actions that enhance both the quality of theme design and the likelihood of successful outcomes.

2. Supporting Genuine Collaboration: The program facilitates not just the Proof of Concept (PoC) phase but also emphasizes solidifying a framework for actionable results. Workshops will help identify clear evaluation criteria, leading to the development of collaborative initiatives.

3. Dedicated Consultant Support: Each participating company will receive one-on-one guidance from an expert consultant, ensuring individualized attention from theme design through to project execution. This also includes mentorship from knowledgeable experts in the field.

4. Utilizing an Innovative Matching Platform: Eiicon will create dedicated web pages for each participating company, aiding in matching them with well-qualified startups. This approach combines the breadth of eiicon's extensive network with quality sourcing.

Application Guidelines

The program seeks large corporations that are ready to embrace open innovation but are currently facing substantial challenges in achieving meaningful results. Eiicon is prepared to assist by establishing strong use cases that generate positive societal impact and foster a continuous stream of first customers.

Important Dates:

• - Application Launch: July 17, 2026
• - Application Period: July 17, 2026 - September 14, 2026
• - Companies selected will be limited to approximately five, with potential early closure based on application status.

Eligibility Criteria:

Participating companies must have business operations in Tokyo and should not fall under specified disqualifications, including those with bankruptcy proceedings or organizations commonly regarded as accelerators or a typical startup entity. They should showcase a strong intent to pursue collaboration with startups and commit to the program's goals throughout its duration.

For further details, corporate inquiries can be directed to eiicon, with an online information session scheduled for August 24, 2026. This initiative not only supports corporate growth but also strives to foster innovation that benefits society as a whole.

For more information, visit eiicon, or access their open innovation platform, AUBA.