#Japan #Tokyo #Sustainable Growth #Social Innovation #Impact Startup

IMPACT STARTUP SUMMIT 2025: A Platform for Change

The Impact Startup Association (ISA) has announced the upcoming IMPACT STARTUP SUMMIT 2025, a significant gathering set for October 14, 2025, at the Tokyo Convention Hall in Kyobashi. This in-person event aims to explore the forefront of social impact by showcasing innovative solutions from startups addressing critical social issues. With ISA's membership having expanded to 249 companies, the summit's theme for this year is "Impact Showcase: A Fair for Social Problem-Solving."

Unveiling of Innovations

Participants will have the unique opportunity to engage with a diverse lineup of sessions led by prominent figures from government, industry, and academia. This includes startup pitches and networking events designed to connect various stakeholders committed to driving social change. Additionally, this year will feature booths from ISA member startups, allowing attendees to experience firsthand the innovative solutions emerging from the impact ecosystem.

The Importance of the Summit

The significance of the IMPACT STARTUP SUMMIT has grown in tandem with the surge in impact investing and management as fundamental drivers of social innovation. A pivotal moment came in 2023, when Japan's "Basic Policy" officially recognized the support for impact startups, followed by initiatives in the 2024 Grand Design of New Capitalism which underscored the importance of impact investment and public-private collaborations. With projections indicating that the domestic impact investment market will expand from approximately 11 trillion yen in 2022 to over 17 trillion yen in 2024, the momentum is undeniable; this dynamic is helping propel the integration of impactful thinking into financial markets and regulatory frameworks.

Expanding Collaborations

ISA is fostering collaborations between public and private sectors, such as agreements with economic organizations and participation in the Impact Consortium led by the Financial Services Agency. These partnerships facilitate the co-creation between large corporations and startups, accelerating the implementation of social solutions.

Since its establishment in October 2022, ISA has been committed to balancing the resolution of social problems with sustainable growth. Their member count has significantly increased, receiving support from numerous leading corporations, thereby establishing a solid foundation that bridges government, industry, academia, and public sectors collaboratively.

An Invitation to Engage

As the second edition of the IMPACT STARTUP SUMMIT, this year's event will center around various sectors such as the environment, education, healthcare, regional revitalization, governance, deep tech, and financial inclusion. Attendees will not only witness demonstrations of pioneering projects but will also have the chance to network, learn, and co-create solutions together.

Last Year’s Success

The previous event, IMPACT STARTUP SUMMIT 2024, saw over 500 participants, including government officials, investors, and students, filling up slots almost immediately. This gathering allowed for extensive discussions across sectors, providing a vibrant platform for networking and staying informed about the latest developments in social impact.

Detailed Program and Registration

Further event details, including registration information, are continuously updated on the event page at IMPACT STARTUP SUMMIT 2025. General admission costs 3,000 yen (tax included) with applications closing on October 7, 2025, or when the capacity is reached.

Media representatives are welcome to inquire via email at [email protected] for specific information.

About the Impact Startup Association

The Impact Startup Association aims to create a conducive environment for startups focused on social problem-solving and sustainable growth. Established with the purpose of building an inclusive impact ecosystem, ISA continues to advocate for impactful startups by emphasizing collaboration among various sectors. Currently, 249 startups are actively involved as full members, alongside 15 supporting members from domestic and international businesses.

Let’s unite for a day of learning and collaboration. Together, we can leverage our individual strengths to foster innovative, sustainable solutions and pave the way for a more equitable future.