Exciting Updates on the FRONTIER PITCH TOKYO for Startups 2025 Contest

On November 19, 2025, the FRONTIER PITCH TOKYO for Startups 2025 will take place at the START-UP FRONTIER FEST 2025, hosted by Sun Frontier Realty. This main event aims to energize Japan's startup scene and encourage innovation.

In addition to the nine judges already announced, three more esteemed professionals have joined the panel:

- Chikako Morimoto, CEO of morich and an all-around agent
- Masano Kobara, Founder and CEO of StartPass
- Ayano Masui, Senior Manager at Marui Group’s Co-Creation Investment Division

Profile Highlights of New Judges

Chikako Morimoto

Having joined Recruit upon graduation, Morimoto founded morich in 2017, focusing on supporting startups by providing recruitment assistance and serving in advisory roles. As a published author and media personality, her experience spans various platforms including NHK’s Professionals: Work Style and Gaia’s Dawn. As a mother of two sons, she expresses how every step of challenge transforms the future for the better.

Morimoto's Insight: "Taking that first step in a challenge can alter the landscape of the future. The courage shown by those pitching today will surely propel Japan forward. I believe that the innovative ideas born here will shape the society of tomorrow and bring hope to future generations. This isn’t just a contest; it's a starting line for the future, and I’m here to support your journey wholeheartedly."

Masano Kobara

Kobara founded his first startup, AppBroadcast, which was acquired by KDDI within three years. Following this success, he shifted to angel investing and established StartPass, providing a base for management support, with over 10% of domestic startups contracted. His mission is to make Japan a more startup-friendly country.

Kobara's Insight: "StartPass’s mission is to enable easier startup creation in Japan while reaffirming Tokyo's position as a global startup hub. Given the shrinking aura of Silicon Valley, cities like Tokyo, rich in creativity and safety, are catching the eye of global investors. I eagerly look forward to meeting the startups propelling Tokyo forward!"

Ayano Masui

Masui has been with Marui Group since 2012, engaging in store operations and project management, including the opening of Apple Stores. Now, she is positioned in the Co-Creation Investment Division, focusing on startup investments and collaborative initiatives. Masui is excited about connecting with entrepreneurs to support their endeavors in Tokyo.

Masui's Insight: "It’s a pleasure to assist ambitious entrepreneurs taking steps towards realizing a co-creative society. I am thrilled to witness moments when startups turn their innovative ideas into impactful powers that drive society forward. I cherish the value of diversity and look forward to meeting passionate and unique startups."

Overview of START-UP FRONTIER FEST 2025

Event Details

- Date: November 19, 2025
- Location: Vector Studio / Vector Lounge
- Participation Period: August 1 – September 30, 2025
- Finalists Announcement: Mid-October 2025

Contest Categories

The primary components of the festival include:

- Part One: Talk Event
- Part Two: Business Pitch Contest (FRONTIER PITCH TOKYO for Startups 2025)
- Part Three: Networking Event

Prizes for Winning Teams

- First Place: 1 year of office space at PLUS SHIFT Nihonbashi Sakuradori (valued at 18 million yen) + 3 pairs of accommodation at Shijo Kawaramachi Onsen
- Second Place: 2 pairs of accommodation at Shijo Kawaramachi Onsen for 2 nights
- Third Place: 2 pairs of accommodation at Shijo Kawaramachi Onsen for 1 night

The judges also include the leaders from various prominent companies in the industry, ensuring a solid evaluation of the contestants.

For more details regarding application submissions, visit: FRONTIER PITCH TOKYO

Hosts: Sun Frontier Realty Corporation is committed to revitalizing and utilizing office complexes in central Tokyo, focusing on community-oriented and sustainable urban development.

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