#Japan #Tokyo #Entrepreneurship #Sushi Tech Tokyo #Tokyo Innovation Base

Introduction to the Entrepreneurship Initiative

Tokyo is spearheading a program aimed at high school students, encouraging them to embrace challenges and collaborate with diverse individuals. This initiative is designed to instill a sense of purpose and agency in young individuals by making them aware of the significance of tackling various issues. This wide-ranging effort builds on past events, like the SusHi Tech Tokyo 2026 Public Day, which provided a platform for students to showcase their activities and creative ideas. By officially launching the 'High School Student Entrepreneurship Practice Initiative,' the city seeks to enhance these efforts further.

Overview of the High School Student Entrepreneurship Initiative

A. Program Goals

This initiative primarily involves high school students taking the lead in planning and organizing programs themselves. The objective is to cultivate interest among their peers in addressing social challenges and entrepreneurship. Through this, they will develop essential skills required to practice effective problem-solving.

B. Initiative Activities

The program will primarily take place at the Tokyo Innovation Base (TIB). Here, student members will take charge of various activities, including:

• - Organizing idea pitches for high school students during the 'SusHi Tech Tokyo 2027 Public Day.'
• - Implementing activities aimed at stimulating interest in entrepreneurship from November 2026 to May 2027.
• - Developing engaging content that encourages fellow high school students to explore entrepreneurial pursuits and business interests.

The Public Day event is an opportunity for individuals of all ages, from children to adults, to engage with startup innovations and brainstorm about the future collectively.

Recruitment of High School Student Members

A. Recruitment Period

The recruitment will open from July 7, 2026, until September 13, 2026.

B. Activity Outline

Starting around November 2026, students will form teams of approximately 20 members and participate in bi-monthly training and planning meetings at TIB. During this time, they will brainstorm ideas for ensuring their peers gain a connection to entrepreneurship and business.

In addition to planning, participants will engage with experts in entrepreneurship and attend external events to learn more about societal structures.
This initiative emphasizes teamwork as students from various middle and high schools come together, fostering collaborative and innovative thinking.

Entrepreneurship Awareness Event: "The First Step Toward Innovation"

To raise awareness of the initiative's objectives and activities, an engagement event will be hosted. This event aims to highlight the exciting aspects of entrepreneurship.
Through guest talks and workshops involving successful entrepreneurs, attendees will gain insights into the daily lives and challenges faced by business leaders.

A. Event Details

• - Date: August 4, 2026, from 1 PM to 5 PM.
• - Location: Tokyo Innovation Base (TIB), located at 3-8-3 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo.
• - Speakers: Keynote speakers will include Eriko Yamaguchi, CEO of Motherhouse, and Kota Hikichi, CEO of VISIONs and Creative Director of COMMONs.

Additional Information

For further details on recruitment and applications, please visit the following website: Entrepreneurship Practice.

References

• - Tokyo Innovation Base: TIB Official Site
• - SusHi Tech Tokyo: SusHi Tech Official Site

This initiative aligns with Tokyo's '2050 Tokyo Strategy,' particularly focusing on fostering a nurturing environment for startups, cultivating spaces where innovative businesses can thrive.