#Japan #AlphaDrive #Kagoshima #KAGORISE

KAGORISE Program: A Gateway to Innovation in Kagoshima

Kagoshima Prefecture, in collaboration with AlphaDrive, has officially announced the launch of the KAGORISE initiative, aimed at supporting startups and local businesses through open innovation. This project offers tailored mentorship and collaborative opportunities, providing a solid foundation for growth in the region.

Program Overview

The KAGORISE program comprises two primary components:
1. Support for Local Startups: Tailored assistance for Kagoshima-based startups with a focus on market expansion and collaboration.
2. Support for Established Companies: Open innovation programs designed for established businesses to foster collaboration with startups through a series of seminars and individualized support.

Support for Startups

Eligible startups will benefit from personalized mentorship from industry experts, receiving guidance tailored to their specific business phases. This includes:

• - Bi-monthly Mentorship Sessions: Interactions with seasoned mentors twice a month to discuss and resolve business challenges.
• - Access to a Network of Over 300 Major Corporations: Gain visibility and connection opportunities through curated lists of potential partners and participation in significant business meetings.
• - Participation in National Events: Successful applicants may receive up to 150,000 yen to support their involvement in major startup events in urban areas such as Tokyo and Kansai.

Eligibility Criteria:

• - Startups with headquarters or branches in Kagoshima and established paid sales within approximately ten years of inception.
• - Selection will involve picking two startups for the program.
• - Applications are free and accepted from June 15, 2026, to July 15, 2026, with selections announced on July 27, 2026.

Support for Existing Companies

This component is designed for core companies in Kagoshima (those with estimated revenues exceeding 1 billion yen and at least 20 employees) to harness the power of open innovation. The offering includes:

• - Free Seminars: A series of three enlightening sessions focusing on key aspects of open innovation, from what it means to practical methods of identifying problems and customers.
• - Collaboration Opportunities with Startups: Participants will have the chance to engage in collaborative proposals from at least five startups sourced from the AlphaDrive network.
• - Individualized Support with Funding: Selected companies can apply for grants (up to 150,000 yen) to aid collaborative activities with startups.

Key Dates:

• - Kick-off Seminar: July 6, 2026.
• - First Seminar: August 5, 2026.
• - Second Seminar: August 24, 2026.
• - Applications for individualized support are open until July 26, 2026.

Expert Insights

The KAGORISE initiative seeks to unlock the potential of innovative collaborations in Kagoshima, according to Kana Yoshikaze from the Kagoshima Prefecture Industrial Location Division. She emphasizes the importance of fostering connections between talented startups and established firms to cultivate new business models and value propositions.

Meanwhile, Sorachi Kamasuto from AlphaDrive highlights the opportunities this program provides. It empowers startups to scale and grants established companies access to innovative strategies vital for competitive advantage. The program is poised to kick-start groundbreaking projects in Kagoshima.

What KAGORISE Offers

KAGORISE is not just a program for learning; it provides actionable support based on extensive operational expertise and a robust network cultivated by AlphaDrive across over 30 prefectures.
For Kagoshima's Startups, the program offers:

• - Direct business opportunities with over 300 major companies from metropolitan regions.
• - Regular sessions with experienced mentors focusing on resolving challenges and strategizing for sustainable business development.

For Core Companies in Kagoshima, the program fosters:

• - In-depth understanding and practical skills relating to open innovation, facilitating matching with startups to inspire new business development efforts with tailored expert assistance.

About AlphaDrive

Founded in February 2018, AlphaDrive specializes in supporting open innovation among large companies, startups, and governmental bodies. With a proven track record across numerous programs nationwide, including regional development initiatives, AlphaDrive enhances collaboration between entities to create sustainable economic models.

With the KAGORISE program, both startups and established businesses in Kagoshima can seize the chance to grow, innovate, and successfully navigate the changing landscape of today's business world. Apply now and take the first step towards your next big opportunity!