Launching TECH Tokyo: A New Era of Innovation in Shibuya by 2025

In an exciting development for innovation and entrepreneurship in Tokyo, TECH Tokyo is set to establish a new hub in Shibuya's Sakura Stage by late October 2025. The initiative, which aims to foster global collaboration in technology, was presented at a launch event held on June 10. This project draws inspiration from the experiences and insights of Jorge Cortell, who served as an innovation fellow at Harvard University's School of Engineering and Applied Sciences.

The launch event kicked off with a captivating performance by The Harvard Crocodiles, an acapella group consisting of twelve male students from Harvard University. They entertained the audience with five songs, including the iconic Japanese piece "Ue o Muite Arukou" by Kyu Sakamoto, creating a memorable atmosphere filled with harmonious melodies.

During the opening remarks, a notable address was delivered by Yoshitaka Koizumi, Minister of State for Science and Technology Policy. He congratulated TECH Tokyo on establishing its base in Shibuya, recognizing it as a significant step for Japan's innovation landscape. Koizumi emphasized the pressing need for innovation as a driving force for economic growth and social problem resolution, expressing hope that TECH Tokyo will greatly contribute to fostering startups and entrepreneurs in the nation.

In a show of support, Hiroaki Hoshino, President of Tokyu Land Corporation, also spoke at the event. He expressed his enthusiasm for partnering in the development of TECH Tokyo and outlined the company's initiatives to support startups in Shibuya through various collaborative projects. His remarks underscored the ambition to expand entrepreneurial development and assist in business realization from Shibuya to a global audience.

Concluding the speeches, Jorge Cortell, as the representative for TECH Tokyo, conveyed heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming support received. He expressed his vision for creating a community where talented individuals from around the world converge, acknowledging the unique value this diversity brings to the hub. Cortell highlighted one of the key features of TECH Tokyo, a full-size video conferencing system designed for real-time global connectivity, signaling the ambitious plans for collaboration and innovation moving forward.

About TECH Tokyo

TECH Tokyo, officially known as the Technology Exchange and Collaboration Hub in Tokyo, represents an independent global center where researchers from highly revered institutions collaborate with Japanese businesses and academic organizations to promote the exchange of innovative ideas and the implementation of scientific knowledge.

Funded with the oversight of a Board of Directors comprised of leading Japanese entrepreneurs and scholars, TECH Tokyo aims to create tangible value for Japanese society while actively contributing to the national innovation ecosystem. By attracting world-class talent and accelerating the commercialization of cutting-edge technologies, TECH Tokyo is poised to play a crucial role in advancing Japan's strategic policy priorities, including digital transformation and economic revitalization.

Panel Discussion Highlights

As part of the launch event, a thought-provoking panel discussion tackled the future of knowledge and Japan's role in U.S.-Japan collaboration. Various experts exchanged ideas on Japan's significance as an international exchange hub, shedding light on areas such as leadership in climate change research and advancements in welfare technology addressing pressing global issues.
Participants included Hiroyuki Ishino, President of Oji Holdings Corporation, Kazuhito Ito, a professor from Imperial College London and Tokyo University of Science, and Jorge Cortell from TECH Tokyo.

More information about the event can be found on the TECH Tokyo Youtube channel, which will feature an event report video to be uploaded soon.

TECH Tokyo is committed to supporting its partner organizations through diverse programs including boot camps, workshops, lectures, mentoring, and advisory services tailored to the needs of its first cohort of partner companies such as Oji Holdings, Terumo Corporation, Tokyu Land Corporation, Japan Airlines, and Rohto Pharmaceutical.

Conclusion

With plans to open in October 2025, TECH Tokyo aims to bridge the gap between academia and industry, spearheading a new wave of innovation and entrepreneurship in Japan. As it embarks on this journey, the hub stands to significantly enhance Japan's international standing in science and technology, fortifying resilience and sustained prosperity amid evolving demographic and economic paradigms.