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Empowering Women Entrepreneurs at the Next Stage Summit

On September 4, 2026, a significant event aimed at fostering women's entrepreneurship will take place in Tokyo. The "Next Stage: Women Entrepreneurs Challenge!" - Women's Empowerment Summit in Shinagawa, organized by Shinagawa Ward and the Musashikoyama Start-Up Support Center, promises to be an inspiring gathering for women who aspire to establish or grow their enterprises.

Objectives of the Summit

The summit is dedicated to encouraging aspiring entrepreneurs, women business owners looking to expand their ventures, and those contemplating their careers and work styles. Attendees will witness real challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in Shinagawa, while gaining insights from their journeys through business pitches, cross-talk sessions with civic leaders and support entities, and engaging in networking opportunities. The ultimate aim is to help women leap into their unique "Next Stage" and build valuable connections.

Understanding the Importance of Next Steps

In a world where women's roles in business and their work-life balance are evolving, taking the next step varies for everyone. Participants at this event will not only listen to presentations but will also have the chance to meet role models and build networks that can propel their careers and ventures forward. This summit will explore wide-ranging topics, such as taking entrepreneurial initiatives and discovering innovative career paths.

Key Highlights of the Event

1. Business Pitches by Women Entrepreneurs

Starting at 5:15 PM, women entrepreneurs will showcase their business ideas. They will discuss the motivations behind their entrepreneurial journeys, the operations they are involved with, and their future aims. This segment is ideal for current entrepreneurs as well as those dreaming of launching their own businesses, providing diverse role models and potential avenues for collaboration.

Featured Entrepreneurs Include:

• - Yumi Tachibana, CEO of LEAN Co., Ltd.
• - Erika Yoshinari, President of PnonToy Co., Ltd.
• - Iriko Kitao, CEO of Pinpin Kirari Co., Ltd.
• - Yukiyo Kojima, CEO of RINNE Co., Ltd.
• - Ikuko Ono, CEO of VxTech Co., Ltd.

2. Cross-Talk Session with Civic Leaders and Women Executives

At 6:15 PM, a cross-talk featuring civic leaders, women entrepreneurs, and female executives will delve into the necessary environments and connections that support women's challenges. Participation from Shinagawa's Mayor Kyoko Morisawa adds a significant perspective to this panel discussion.

Panelists Include:

• - Kyoko Morisawa, Mayor of Shinagawa
• - Mana Yamada, CEO of MYLILY Co., Ltd.
• - Mai Morita, Founder of Kamimi
• - Yoko Sugiyama, Deputy General Manager at CyberAgent's Love & Smile Business Division.

3. Interaction with Women Entrepreneurs and Officials from Africa

The summit also welcomes women entrepreneurs and officials from various African nations who are visiting Japan as part of a JICA training program focused on promoting women's business and entrepreneurship in Africa. They will present at 6:45 PM, sharing valuable insights and fostering cross-border engagement.

Presentation by:

• - Emi Hirose, Director of Gender Equality and Poverty Reduction Division at JICA.

Opportunity for Networking

After the main program concludes at 7:15 PM, attendees will have the chance to network in a relaxed environment. This space will bring together female entrepreneurs, aspiring business owners, support organizations, and civic entities, promoting collaboration and dialogue.

Childcare Services Available

To ensure inclusivity, a childcare service will be available for young children, facilitating participation from parents. Pre-registration is required, so interested parties should sign up before the closing date of August 31, 2026.

Event Details

• - Date and Time: September 4, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 8:10 PM (Venue opens at 4:30 PM)
• - Venue: Tokyo Innovation Base, 2F, Marunouchi 3-8-3, Chiyoda, Tokyo
• - Format: In-person and online participation
• - Target Audience: Aspiring entrepreneurs, women business owners, support organizations, civic entities
• - Cost: Free for event participation, 1,000 yen for networking, and 500 yen per child for childcare (insurance)
• - Registration Deadline: September 1, 2026

About the Musashikoyama Start-Up Support Center

The Musashikoyama Start-Up Support Center, known as "MUSAKO HOUSE," provides various entrepreneurial support stages, from aspiring founders to established business owners, extending its services to specifically assist women entrepreneurs through seminars, consultations, and community events.

For Media Inquiries

Media representatives are welcome to cover the event, including business pitches, discussions with the Mayor, and interactions with international delegates. For press inquiries, please reach out to us in advance.

Join us to empower women and spark entrepreneurial journeys at the Next Stage Summit in Shinagawa!