#Japan #Tokyo #Impact Startup #SOLVE! Initiative #Social Entrepreneur Dojo

Introduction of the 'Social Entrepreneur Dojo'

On June 16, 2025, Sophia University will host the inaugural session of the 'Social Entrepreneur Dojo', an innovative program formed under the SOLVE! alliance. This initiative brings together 14 universities and aims to inspire students to confront societal challenges head-on. By engaging in discussions with impact startups and non-profit organizations (NPOs), students will gain valuable insights into addressing current social issues.

A Collaborative Effort to Spark Change

The 'Social Entrepreneur Dojo' encompasses a series of five sessions, providing students with the opportunity to connect with peers nationwide and formulate actionable approaches to implement their aspirations within society. The first session will feature prominent speakers, Haruka Mera from READYFOR and Takahiro Fushimi from ICHI COMMONS. They will discuss the mindset necessary for social entrepreneurs, funding strategies, and key attributes required in the impact startup landscape.

The program is designed specifically for undergraduate and graduate students affiliated with SOLVE! member universities. By actively participating in this dojo, students will not only expand their understanding of various social issues but also cultivate vital skills to navigate the complex landscape of social entrepreneurship.

Fostering Discussion on Key Themes

Following the introductory session, subsequent meetings will delve into a variety of themes such as promoting women's empowerment, refugee rights, human rights issues, and problems surrounding food security. Through interactive discussions between stakeholders and students, the dojo aims to uncover insights that can lead to meaningful 'social impacts'.

Event Details

• - Date and Time: June 16, 2025, from 18:00 to 19:30
• - Format: In-person and online (live broadcast via Zoom)
• - Location for In-Person Attendance: Sophia University, Yotsuya Campus, Building 6, Room 502
• - Eligibility: Open to undergraduate and graduate students at SOLVE! member institutions.

More About SOLVE!

Founded in February 2025, SOLVE! is a collaborative initiative led by Sophia University and the University of Tokyo. It aims to gather students and researchers pursuing academic inquiry across various fields and regions in Japan, a nation recognized for its advanced social issues. The program seeks to create opportunities for interaction, learning, generating ideas, and practical applications, fostering a new generation of contributors to solving complex social challenges. For more information, visit the official site: SOLVE! Initiative.

Participating Universities

The SOLVE! initiative includes universities such as Sophia University, the University of Tokyo, Tokyo University of Foreign Studies, Chuo University, Kansai University, Hosei University, Tohoku University, Ritsumeikan University, Waseda University, Rikkyo University, Tokyo University of Science, Osaka University, Teikyo University, and Ochanomizu University as of June 2025.

Upcoming Sessions

The second session of the 'Social Entrepreneur Dojo' will feature Yumiko Murakami, former director of the OECD Tokyo Center and co-founder of MPower Partners, focusing on the theme of women's empowerment.