#Japan #Shizuoka #LTS #SHIP

SHIP Celebrates a Milestone

LTS Inc., based in Tokyo’s Minato Ward, has been operating the SHIP (Shizuoka Innovation Platform) since its inception, driven by its commitment to innovation in Shizuoka. As it marks its two-year anniversary this March, SHIP has reported staggering growth figures: the total membership has reached 2,803, an increase of 1,000 from the previous year, while the total number of visitors has surged past 10,000, hitting 15,011 with a notable rise of 7,501 attendees.

To celebrate its second anniversary, SHIP hosted the "SHIP Awards 2024" on March 13, recognizing innovative contributors in its community. The event adopted a hybrid model, allowing both in-person and online participation, and it saw active engagement from SHIP members who cast their votes for award recipients. The winners included individuals who have implemented creative and impactful projects, showcasing the innovative spirit fostered at SHIP.

Among the distinguished awardees was Hiroki Miura, the CEO of dozo, who took home the Grand Prize & Innovative Initiative Award for developing a craft tea cocktail kit utilizing single-origin Shizuoka tea leaves. His initiative not only offers a unique product but adds new value to local tea culture through collaborations and trials at SHIP.

The Nice Try Award was bestowed upon Toki Kageyama, CEO of CurioBase, who is pioneering AI tools to empower individuals through project management functionalities. This initiative aims to democratize project management skills, making them accessible for everyone, especially students, thus showcasing innovation through academic expertise.

The award for engaging the community went to Toshiya Nakamura, head of AI Camp, who has been organizing monthly events focused on generative AI since SHIP’s launch. His commitment has successfully attracted over 600 participants, emphasizing the community-driven approach to AI knowledge sharing.

Lastly, Seiichi Yonezawa, CEO of Workauto, received accolades for tackling social issues through technology. His deep-tech startup focuses on automating outdoor tasks in agriculture, with recent developments including an automated grass cutting machine aimed at achieving sustainable farming practices.

According to Hiroshi Yamabe, head of Shizuoka's Economic and Industrial Innovation Promotion Division, SHIP will further enhance its role starting in FY2025 by also supporting aspiring entrepreneurs. The venue’s digital innovation training program has already begun to yield positive outcomes by broadening participants’ perspectives, encouraging them to initiate new businesses, and driving social change.

Yoko Tamaki, SHIP's community manager, emphasized the importance of its members in the platform’s success. As SHIP transitions from a place of exchange and learning to one of co-creation and challenges, a supportive environment is being cultivated for all members. SHIP aims to create innovations rooted in regional culture through close collaboration with local governments and businesses, reinforcing the necessity of vibrant local engagement in fostering innovation.

SHIP serves as a platform for knowledge sharing and collaboration, emphasizing the acquisition of skills in ICT (Information and Communication Technology) and digital technology. By facilitating partnerships beyond organizational lines and spurring new business initiatives, SHIP actively contributes to Shizuoka's economic vitality.

Looking forward, SHIP continues to encourage innovation and entrepreneurship, welcoming individuals eager to explore new opportunities and create meaningful change. Join SHIP as it revolutionizes the innovation landscape in Shizuoka together!

About LTS Inc.

Founded to be a best partner in the digital age, LTS Inc. provides consultancy services aimed at enhancing transformation execution capabilities. Additionally, it runs a platform that connects various businesses and talents in the IT industry, fostering new business opportunities. SHIP is one of the key projects reflecting their commitment to innovation and collaboration in the region.