#Japan #AlphaDrive #Kagoshima #KAGORISE

Overview of the KAGORISE Project

In a remarkable initiative to foster innovation and growth, Kagoshima Prefecture has introduced the KAGORISE Startup and Business Co-Creation Project. As part of this initiative, four companies have been selected for individual support programs that will enhance collaboration between established businesses and startups. The selected firms include two core companies in the region—Kagoshima Broadcasting Corp. and Nippon Gas Co., along with two promising startups, Vision Inc. and Buddycare Inc.

Selected Companies

Kagoshima Broadcasting Corp.

Motto: "Opening the future of Kagoshima through collaboration and communication, our catchphrase is 'Go to the Future!'"

Kagoshima Broadcasting Corp. is gearing up for its 50th anniversary in 2032, aiming to be the most beloved broadcasting company in the region. They are eager to enhance local business management resources and drive new project developments. The company emphasizes robust collaboration with startups to facilitate co-creation and innovation.

Nippon Gas Co.

Motto: "Transforming the power that supports the region into a force that changes it—Nippon Gas's new value creation."

To remain a necessary presence in the community, Nippon Gas is committed to creating new value beyond conventional energy and city gas services. Their deep-rooted understanding of regional needs positions them to identify unique challenges and opportunities. They view this project as a stepping stone to transform future business endeavors.

Vision Inc.

Motto: "Sharing the stories of Kagoshima's producers with the cooperation of businesses nationwide."

Vision Inc. is focused on bringing the personal tales of over 300 local producers to audiences across Japan. Through collaboration with businesses, they aim to explore new markets such as BtoB sectors and corporate gifting, enhancing the allure of Kagoshima's food offerings.

Buddycare Inc.

Motto: "Delivering Kagoshima-made dog food to dogs everywhere!"

As a startup rooted in Kagoshima, Buddycare is set on establishing new distribution channels with major retail and pet-related companies to accelerate national outreach. Leveraging local ingredients and unique strengths, they are dedicated to providing new healthy dietary options to dogs across the country.

Looking Ahead

The selected companies will receive specialized support from August 19, 2026, to the end of February 2027. During this period, the focus lies on bringing new projects to fruition for the core companies while startups expand their market reach, particularly in urban areas like Tokyo and Kansai. Kagoshima Prefecture is committed to promoting the co-creation of new business initiatives through this project, further strengthening the local economy.

About AlphaDrive

Founded on February 23, 2018, AlphaDrive is an organization specializing in open innovation for large corporations and startups, as well as governmental support to foster new business development. They have a successful track record of operating programs across more than 30 prefectures in Japan. AlphaDrive is especially committed to assisting regional industries, talent cultivation, and economic policies, exemplified through their initiative 'AlphaDrive REGION.' This initiative focuses on collaboration with governments and businesses to stimulate local economies and produce innovative industry models. The firm also conducts research on regional economic policy through its think tank, AlphaDrive Regional Economic Research Institute.

Company Information:

• - Name: AlphaDrive Inc.
• - Founder: CEO Kayo Aso
• - Location: 1F, Kurusu Building, 2-17-3 Nagatacho, Chiyoda, Tokyo 100-0014, Japan
• - Website: alphadrive.co.jp
• - AlphaDrive REGION URL: region.alphadrive.co.jp

Organizing Body

Kagoshima Prefecture's Commerce, Labor and Fisheries Division, New Industry Creation Room, oversees the project operations managed by AlphaDrive, with inquiries handled by the KAGORISE operations office. Contact can be made to Solachi Kasyou.

Contact Details:

• - Email: [email protected]
• - Business Hours: Monday to Friday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM