#Japan #Kobe #AlphaDrive #Kobe City #Startup Program

Kobe City's 'BLUEPRINT' Program: Fostering New Business Ideas

Kobe City is excited to announce the launch of its new business development initiative, the 'BLUEPRINT' program, in collaboration with AlphaDrive, Kobe Shimbun, and K.S. Rogers. Starting from June 5, 2026, this new and innovative course aims to empower local business professionals to transform their ideas into viable business proposals.

Overview of BLUEPRINT

The 'BLUEPRINT' program invites participants from businesses within Kobe City to engage in a structured course focused on three key stages of business development: generating ideas, conducting customer interviews, and creating prototypes. This course is designed to enhance the efficiency of the business development process while integrating generative AI tools, specifically Claude, into practical applications.

During this three-session training program, participants will not just learn - they will actively work on their projects. This hands-on approach ensures that by the end of the course, attendees will be ready to independently pursue their new business initiatives.

Expertise Behind the Program

AlphaDrive, known for its impressive track record of creating over 23,800 new business ideas and successfully launching more than 250 projects, will lead the training. Participants will have the unique opportunity to learn from seasoned professionals who specialize in the real-world application of innovative business strategies.

The previous year saw 135 participants in the program, achieving a remarkable satisfaction rate of 100%. This year, the curriculum has been further optimized to shorten the training period while enhancing the quality and quantity of ideas generated using AI.

Benefits of Participating

• - No Participation Fee: Joining the program is free of charge.
• - Hands-On Training with AI Tools: Learn how to leverage generative AI as a partner in business development. Focus time on customer validation rather than idea generation.
• - Networking Opportunities: Connect with like-minded business professionals from Kobe. This program facilitates valuable interactions, fostering potential collaborations.
• - Continuity Beyond the Course: Access continuous support through a business development community where participants can consult mentors and instructors after completing the program.

Program Schedule

Kick-off Seminar: All participants are invited to the kick-off event on June 29, 2026, from 14:00 to 17:00. It will feature an opening seminar and networking opportunities.

First Term Workshops:

• - July 6, 2026: Idea Generation Workshop
• - July 24, 2026: Interview Workshop
• - August 3, 2026: Prototyping Workshop
• - September 11, 2026: First Business Plan Contest (exact time TBD)

Second Term Workshops:

• - October 5, 2026: Idea Generation Workshop
• - October 19, 2026: Interview Workshop
• - November 2, 2026: Prototyping Workshop
• - December 11, 2026: Second Business Plan Contest (exact time TBD)

Eligibility Criteria

To participate, applicants must:

• - Be affiliated with a company that has a business presence in Kobe.
• - Have a role in new business development or an interest in this area.
• - Be able to attend all three workshop sessions.

No prior approval needed; any eligible individual can join on a first-come, first-served basis. All types of businesses, from startups to large corporations, are encouraged to apply. Moreover, participants will utilize Generative AI tools (Claude) during the course, accessible via free accounts.

Application Process

Step 1: Recommended participation in the kick-off seminar, where the course details, tools, and benefits will be explained.

• - Date: June 29, 2026
• - Location: ANCHOR KOBE, Kobe City
• - Free Admission
• - Application Link: Kick-off Seminar Registration

Step 2: Submit the application for the course:

• - Application Forms: First Term Registration (deadline July 5, 2026), Second Term Registration (deadline September 30, 2026).

Organizers and Contact Information

This program is organized by Kobe City, in collaboration with AlphaDrive, Kobe Shimbun, and K.S. Rogers. For inquiries, please contact the Kobe Business Program Office through email at [email protected], available on weekdays from 10:00 to 17:00.

About AlphaDrive REGION

AlphaDrive REGION focuses on regional revitalization and economic policy in partnership with local government and businesses. The initiative goes beyond consulting, actively engaging in business operations across over 30 prefectures. Their goal is to redefine local economic policy for the AI era, preparing regions for a future of growth and sustainability.