STATION Ai and Persol Career Launch New Sales Program for Startups

A New Era for Startups: Unveiling the Sales Engine Program

In an exciting development for startups in Japan, STATION Ai Inc. and Persol Career Inc. are partnering to introduce a new initiative aimed at enhancing the sales capabilities of early-stage companies. This program, known as the 'Sales Engine Program,' is set to roll out on November 25, 2025, and will run for approximately four months.

Addressing Sales Challenges

One of the prominent challenges faced by startups, particularly those at the early stages leading up to Series A funding, is their inability to establish effective sales strategies. This can significantly hinder their growth trajectory. Recognizing this pressing issue, STATION Ai and Persol Career are joining forces to provide crucial support through this innovative program. The initiative focuses on key areas such as recruiting top sales talent, developing robust sales strategies, and facilitating customer acquisition.

Comprehensive Support Structure

The Sales Engine Program is designed to offer tailored support to participants. Startups will benefit from expert guidance in hiring SalesTOP candidates who are best suited for their specific business needs. Additionally, the program includes customer pitch events that gather potential clients, venture capitalists, and municipalities—all designed to help startups showcase their products and services effectively.

Unique Features of the Program

1. Tailored Talent Acquisition: Startups will have access to a specialized support team that uses Persol Career's 'HiPro' service to match them with the right sales professionals. This unique arrangement allows companies to connect with suitable candidates at no additional cost, streamlining their recruitment processes.

2. Access to Business Networks: Leveraging the extensive networks of both STATION Ai and HiPro, the program aims to facilitate valuable introductions to potential customers and investors, enhancing the outreach opportunities available to participating startups.

Program Participation Details

The Sales Engine Program is specifically designed for early-phase companies located at STATION Ai, particularly those that are on the cusp of or recently completed their Series A funding round. The structure allows for up to five startups to enroll in the program, which will run from November 25, 2025, to March 19, 2026. Each participating startup is required to pay a fee of 700,000 yen (excluding tax), in addition to an estimated cost of 1,000,000 yen for contracting SalesTOP personnel.

Leadership Insights

Commenting on the program, Hirotaka Sabashi, the CEO of STATION Ai, emphasized the critical role that establishing a strong sales force plays in the growth of startups. He stated, "Sales capability and optimal personnel assignment are crucial for business expansion. Our program aims to maximize outcomes with limited resources, creating a replicable sales structure." Sabashi expressed hopeful expectations for the emergence of next-generation startups from this initiative.

Similarly, Yojiro Kaburaki, Executive Officer at Persol Career, noted that enhancing sales effectiveness is a vital theme for startups, underscoring the importance of maximizing results within constrained resources. He expressed confidence in the program's potential to leverage existing knowledge and expertise to empower startups effectively.

About STATION Ai

STATION Ai stands as one of Japan's largest open innovation hubs, dedicated to nurturing and supporting the growth of startups. With participation from over 1,000 domestic and international companies, universities, and VC partners, STATION Ai is committed to fostering new business creation and providing a collaborative environment for growth. Its initiatives include educational workshops, mentoring, networking opportunities, and various supportive programs aimed at assisting startups in achieving their business goals.

As the launch date approaches, both STATION Ai and Persol Career are poised to revolutionize the sales landscape for startups in Japan, offering them the tools they need to thrive in an increasingly competitive market.

For additional details and inquiries regarding the Sales Engine Program, startups can reach out directly to the program's administrative office at [email protected] or visit the official STATION Ai website.