#Japan #Tokyo #SHIBUYA QWS #QWS STARTUP AWARD

Launching the QWS STARTUP AWARD 2027

In a significant move to bolster the startup ecosystem, the QWS STARTUP AWARD 2027 is set to occur on March 9, 2027, at the SHIBUYA QWS, located on the 15th floor of the Shibuya Scramble Square in Tokyo. This pitch award aims to support emerging startups and encourages participation from companies that are either in the process of being registered or have been registered as a corporation within January 2027.

Application Periods

• - Pre-entry Period: September 2, 2026 - December 25, 2026
• - Entry Period: October 13, 2026 - January 12, 2027

Startups regardless of their business domain, founding year, product existence, or fundraising track record are encouraged to apply. This inclusivity ensures a diverse range of innovative ideas can be showcased at the pitch event. Interested applicants can find more details on the QWS STARTUP AWARD official site: QWS STARTUP AWARD 2027.

About QWS STARTUP AWARD 2027

The QWS STARTUP AWARD is a pitch competition under the umbrella of SHIBUYA QWS, a members-only co-creation facility designed to foster interaction and collaboration among various individuals, aiming to create new social value through innovative ideas and projects. Since its opening in November 2019, QWS has supported over 490 startups and projects striving to create new societal values.

Since its inception in 2022, the award has honed in on promoting startups that generate innovations beneficial to society, not only focusing on traditional growth metrics such as business performance.

The awards hinge on a supportive ecosystem, where judges and partners work together to offer startups essential resources, support, and opportunities required to take their next big steps.

Key Features of QWS STARTUP AWARD 2027

• - Experienced Judges: The final judging panel will consist solely of seasoned professionals, including angel investors and management experts, who will focus on nurturing new social values rather than just business growth.
• - Advertising Opportunities: The winner of the QWS Grand Prize will not only receive a cash prize of 1 million yen but will also be awarded advertising rights worth approximately 2 million yen, including exposure on major digital billboards around the Shibuya area.
• - Networking Prospects: Startups will have the chance to connect with member companies and municipalities collaborating through special awards, potentially leading to business alliances and pilot projects.

Event Overview

• - Date: March 9, 2027
• - Time: 15:30 - 19:00 JST
• - Eligibility: Seed and pre-seed startups registered with legal entities in January 2027 and beyond. No limitations on business field, years since founding, product existence, or fundraising history apply.
• - Judging Process: The competition will involve an initial document review, followed by online interviews and a final pitch session.
• - Judging Panel: Comprising angel investors, venture capitalists, and representatives from various sectors, including government entities.
• - Prizes: Awards will include various support packages and financial assistance tailored to ensure that winners can implement and advance their ideas.

Schedule

• - Entry Launch: October 13, 2026
• - Entry Deadline: January 12, 2027
• - Result Notification: Initial judging results on January 29, 2027
• - Final Pitch Event: March 9, 2027

Participation in the QWS STARTUP AWARD 2027 is an exciting opportunity for startups to gain visibility, receive valuable feedback, and possibly secure funding and partnerships. For further inquiries and registration, please visit the official website.

In conclusion, the QWS STARTUP AWARD 2027 not only promises a competitive pitch environment for startups but also underscores the commitment of SHIBUYA QWS to nurturing innovation and collaboration in Japan’s entrepreneurial landscape.