Startups Invited for Cutting-Edge Management Skills Training Program in Minato City

Starting April 1, 2026, the Minato City Industrial Promotion Center is inviting applications for its Liberal Arts for Business Innovators Creation (LABIC) program, aimed at enhancing management capabilities of startup companies. This initiative focuses on helping entrepreneurs leverage their intangible assets such as human capital and intellectual property effectively. Over a duration of approximately six months, participants will receive practical insights into merging business strategies with financial capital strategies.

Program Highlights

The LABIC program stands out due to its diverse support structures:
1. Practical Seminars (Innovation Baseline): Attendees will engage in 11 seminars, each lasting 2 hours. Expert professionals and seasoned CEOs will share critical knowledge in fields such as finance, capital policy, law, intellectual property rights, organizational development, corporate governance, and stock options.
2. Individual Mentoring Sessions (Startup Driveline): Each participant will benefit from tailored sessions with instructors, focusing on personal challenges surrounding business planning, fundraising, organizational development, and product strategies. These sessions will be available both in-person and online and are by appointment only.
3. Networking Opportunities (Ecosystem Enhancement): Participants will have the chance to attend networking events following seminars, enabling them to connect with instructors, supporters, and other stakeholders in the startup ecosystem. This facilitates the sharing of honest conversations and valuable insights.
4. Investor Mentoring Sessions: Gain direct feedback on business content, growth strategies, and capital policies from venture capitalists and angel investors. This session will allow startups to refine their pitches and understand improvement points from an investor's perspective.
5. Demo Day Participation: Participants will have the opportunity to present their business to investors, companies, and support agencies during a dedicated Demo Day, enhancing their visibility and potential for collaboration or funding.

Eligibility Requirements

To apply for the LABIC program, candidates must meet the following criteria:

- Must be established or planning to establish a base in Minato City.
- Open to startups at any stage of their journey, regardless of industry segment.

Application Timeline

The application process will start on April 1, 2026, with submissions accepted until May 1, 2026, at 23:59. Successful candidates will be notified by May 7, 2026. Training and mentoring will commence from June through November 2026, culminating in the Demo Day on December 3, 2026.

Contact Information

- For inquiries, reach out to the MINATO Accelerator Secretariat via email at [email protected] or call 03-6435-0601.

About Minato City Industrial Promotion Center

Officially opened in April 2022, the Minato City Industrial Promotion Center serves as a forward-thinking hub that connects businesses, individuals, and the local community. Offering co-working spaces, business support facilities, and various meeting rooms, it supports diverse entrepreneurs, freelancers, and innovation seekers. The center aims to enhance open innovation across various sectors, and research and development activities, thereby fostering successful business operations.

For more detailed information, including how to register for visitations of the co-working space or business support factory, please visit the following links:

- Co-working Space: View
- Business Support Factory: View
- Venue Renting Information: View.

This program represents a significant opportunity for startups to enhance their management capabilities and network with industry leaders. Don't miss out on this chance!