#Japan #Tokyo #Startup World Cup #Kawai Juku #Dalton School

Inspiring Young Minds: A Sixth Grader's Victory

In a remarkable achievement, Reita Shikata, a sixth grader from Kawai Juku Dalton School in Tokyo, triumphed in the Japan qualifiers for the Startup World Cup 2026 held on April 23, 2026. This prestigious business pitch contest is recognized as one of the largest of its kind, attracting participants from over 130 countries. This year’s competition introduced a new 'Youth Pitch' category for students below high school age, showcasing the incredible talents of young innovators.

The event saw four teams competing, with two from Dalton School. In an atmosphere charged with excitement and nerves, approximately 3,000 spectators gathered both in-person and online to witness the remarkable pitches. The young participants were given just three minutes to deliver their presentations, demonstrating their capabilities alongside high school and vocational school students.

Reita's winning idea focused on creating a universal 'gluten-free certification mark' to ensure that international visitors can dine safely in Japan. To accompany this initiative, he proposed a multilingual app that helps users find certified restaurants and food products. His concept resonated with both the judges and the audience, ultimately leading him to victory.

The success stems from the educational approach at Dalton School, particularly in their after-school program designed to cultivate intellectual curiosity among students. Educators play a crucial role by guiding children to discover and tackle challenges while enhancing their self-expression and critical thinking skills. The innovative ideas that the two participating teams presented were refined through feedback from their instructors, rooted in the insights gained from their Social Studies inquiry classes.

Reita is now set to represent Japan at the global finals scheduled for November in San Francisco, marking a significant milestone for both himself and his school.

About Kawai Juku Dalton School

Founded in 1970, Kawai Juku Dalton School caters to children aged one to twelve. The school implements the Dalton Plan, which emphasizes 'freedom' and 'collaboration' as core principles to maximize the potential and interests of children. The after-school program, available for once-a-week participation, offers experiential learning opportunities across various subjects, including Mathematics, Science, Writing, Social Studies, Computer Studies, Inquiry Labs, and Art, encouraging students to explore their passions and develop new skills.

The achievement of young Reita Shikata is a testament to the vibrant and nurturing educational environment fostered at Kawai Juku Dalton School. His innovative spirit serves as an inspiration for his peers and highlights the importance of creative thinking and problem-solving in the world of business. As he prepares for the global stage, there’s no doubt that such experiences will empower him and many other young students in their future endeavors.