#Japan #Kawasaki #AI Robotics #COLAB #NIKKEI THE PITCH

CoLab Advances to the Grand Finals of NIKKEI THE PITCH

In a significant achievement, CoLab, a startup based in Kawasaki, Kanagawa Prefecture, has earned its place in the finals of NIKKEI THE PITCH GROWTH 2025-2026. This esteemed competition, hosted by the Nikkei, aims to support startups and next-generation entrepreneurs across Japan, spotlighting innovations that significantly impact society. The grand finals are slated for March 8, 2026, and promises to showcase some of the most pioneering ideas at the forefront of industry transformation.

About NIKKEI THE PITCH

NIKKEI THE PITCH is a comprehensive initiative orchestrated by the Nikkei to bolster the development of startups and at-tsugi ventures across the nation. This project is particularly centered around the GROWTH segment, which serves as a national pitch contest designed for startups and next-generation entrepreneurs. Out of numerous participants from seven blocks, only 22 companies, including CoLab, have successfully advanced to the finals after a rigorous selection process. The virtual pitch run attracted around 25,000 viewers, making it one of the largest startup pitch events in the country.

Pitch Details

The grand finals will be held at the Kudan Kaikan Terrace, located in Chiyoda, Tokyo, from 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Entry to the event is free, and participants can join either in-person or online. Providing extensive support for this event are the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

About CoLab

Founded on August 18, 2015, CoLab is dedicated to automating assembly factories through the generation of robotic movement powered by artificial intelligence. By combining vision (image recognition), tactile (sensors), robotics, and AI technologies, CoLab has developed a comprehensive robotic system from research and development to direct sales. Looking ahead to 2024, CoLab is set to initiate full-scale operations in automotive and electric equipment manufacturing facilities, growing its hiring efforts to accommodate this expansion.

In March 2025, CoLab successfully raised funds and ranked fifth in the prestigious IVS2025 LAUNCHPAD pitch event. The company also received recognition in the AI and Robotics category in the 2025 edition of Weekly Toyo Keizai's 'Amazing Ventures 100'.

Hiring Opportunities

CoLab is actively seeking team members who can contribute to realizing the company's vision in various roles including AI robotics research and development, consulting, sales, and corporate affairs. They welcome anyone interested to sign up for office tours, which are held periodically. Interested individuals can reach out through the inquiry form found on their website.

For more information about their vision and the exciting work being done at CoLab, visit their official site: www.colab.co.jp.

Conclusion

CoLab is not just another startup; it’s a beacon of innovation that aims to redefine the manufacturing landscape amid challenges such as Japan’s aging population and geopolitical uncertainties. By automating the assembly processes, CoLab is committed to enhancing productivity and transforming the supply chains of the future, leading the way in advancing manufacturing practices through cutting-edge technology.