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Tokyo GreenTech Challenge: A Launchpad for Innovative Startups

In an exciting development for environmental and energy startups, the Tokyo Marunouchi Innovation Platform (TMIP) has announced the selection of seven startups to participate in its support program, the Tokyo GreenTech Challenge. This initiative aims to provide a comprehensive support system for startups in resolving critical social challenges related to the environment and energy sectors.

The TMIP, in collaboration with notable partners such as Nomura Research Institute, Green Talent Hub, and Token Express, focuses on creating synergies between large corporations, local governments, academia, and urban communities. The platform is pivotal for fostering open innovation, providing startups with access to a wealth of resources as they navigate the complexities of bringing their solutions to market.

Selected Startups

The startups selected for this challenge come from diverse fields, each tackling unique issues:

1. ESREE Energy Inc. - They specialize in long-term energy storage through heat accumulation.
2. Biome Inc. - Their goal is to digitize natural ecosystems with services for automatic species identification and distribution analysis.
3. WALLTECH Inc. - They are developing artistic wall panels utilizing 3D printing and waste materials, embodying the principles of a circular economy.
4. RYDE Inc. - Focused on digitizing public transportation services to enhance accessibility and efficiency.
5. TerraInsight Inc. - They offer integrated water resource management solutions, promoting sustainable water use.
6. WAKU Inc. - Known for producing eco-friendly fertilizers using glutathione to reduce environmental impact.
7. Vanwaves Inc. - They manufacture saunas using locally sourced timber, supporting sustainable forestry practices.

Program Details

The Tokyo GreenTech Challenge is designed so that startups can achieve impactful solutions in the shortest possible timeframe. By tapping into the expansive TMIP community, which consists of over 330 organizations, the program enables startups to connect with major players, identify cooperative areas, and receive logistical support such as proof-of-concept funding and demonstration site access.

Startups in the program will collaborate with large enterprises and local governments to conduct proof-of-concept experiments that align with their business goals. Additionally, TMIP will assist in promoting the activities and achievements of these startups, increasing their visibility within the wider community.

The Role of Partners

Each partner in the Tokyo GreenTech Challenge plays a distinct role:

• - Nomura Research Institute provides overall support and mentoring to selected startups, guiding them through the complexities of collaboration.
• - Green Talent Hub focuses on assisting startups with talent acquisition and promotional efforts.
• - Token Express helps in measuring the social impact and crafting impact reports to showcase the results of the startups’ initiatives.

TMIP Community Structure

The foundation of TMIP's innovation ecosystem lies in its community, comprising a diverse mix of large corporations, startups, urban planning organizations, venture capitalists, academic institutions, and governmental bodies. This broad network facilitates comprehensive support for new business creations, leveraging the unique assets of the Marunouchi area.

TOKYO SUTEAM: Supporting Startup Growth

The TOKYO SUTEAM initiative is another vital component, aiming to amplify the growth of startups in Tokyo. Under its banner of promoting 'Global Innovation with STARTUPS,' the initiative seeks to increase the number of unicorns and encourage collaborative practices over the next five years. By establishing partnerships with various stakeholders, the Tokyo SUTEAM aims to provide diverse and impactful support for startups and aspiring entrepreneurs.

For more information about the program and updates on selected startups, visit the official websites for the Tokyo GreenTech Challenge and TOKYO SUTEAM.

Conclusion

The Tokyo GreenTech Challenge reflects a significant commitment to innovation and sustainability. By empowering startups and facilitating collaboration among various sectors, the initiative not only addresses pressing environmental issues but also paves the way for a greener, more sustainable future.

For updates and further details, please check out TMIP's official website: TMIP Official.