#Japan #BIZcomfort #WOOC #Yokosuka

BIZcomfort: Pioneering Startup Support in Yokosuka

BIZcomfort, part of WOOC, is taking a significant step in enhancing the startup ecosystem in Yokosuka, Japan. Starting from July 1, 2025, the company will sponsor the "Startup Audition in YOKOSUKA 2025," a program designed to help aspiring entrepreneurs evolve their ideas into viable business ventures. This initiative is more than just support; it’s a concerted effort towards fostering local entrepreneurship and innovation.

About the Sponsorship

WOOC, headquartered in Shinagawa, Tokyo, has set its sights on creating a conducive environment for diverse workers, including entrepreneurs and freelancers, with the motto "Work freely and comfortably!" The company operates over 170 coworking spaces and rental offices nationwide, extending its reach beyond urban centers to suburban and rural areas. This strategy enables communities to engage in entrepreneurial activities closer to home, providing them with unique work-life solutions.

Through this partnership with the Startup Audition, BIZcomfort aims to offer essential resources and connections that cater to aspiring entrepreneurs in Yokosuka. The initiative emphasizes supporting those serious about turning their ideas into reality by providing a space where they can connect, collaborate, and access opportunities. By fostering partnerships with local agencies and organizations, BIZcomfort seeks to play a pivotal role in nurturing the startup culture in the region.

Startup Audition in YOKOSUKA 2025: An Overview

The Startup Audition in YOKOSUKA 2025 invites business plans aiming at commercialization within the city. Sponsored by the Yokosuka City government, this contest will provide comprehensive support for selected entrants, including up to ¥2 million in incentives, consulting support for three years, and additional backing from participating companies, including mentorship from ALPHA DRIVE. The Salient point being that all accepted plans must be implemented within Yokosuka, ensuring a synergistic relationship between the local government, businesses, and financial institutions.

Since its inception in 2007, the program has amassed a total of 226 business plans by 2024, continually welcoming innovative ideas from aspiring entrepreneurs to established startups. It serves as a significant platform for those serious about commercializing their concepts and chasing growth.

What BIZcomfort Yokosuka Chuo Offers

Set to open on March 1, 2025, BIZcomfort Yokosuka Chuo will serve as a hub for entrepreneurs and newcomers. The office space will feature both private rental offices and open coworking areas designed for productivity and networking. The entirely private offices come with secure access, catering to the need for confidentiality in business operations, while the coworking spaces provide a collaborative environment equipped with high-speed internet and power supply, making it the perfect spot for freelancers and startups to connect and brainstorm.

Location and Access

• - Address: 1-6 Hinode-cho, Yokosuka, Kanagawa, 2F and 3F Realize Yokosuka
• - Access: A 5-minute walk from Keikyu Line "Yokosuka Chuo Station" East Exit.

Benefits for Contest Winners

Some key highlights for contest winners include:

• - Up to ¥2 Million in Grants
• - Support from Sponsors (Cash Prizes, Special Benefits, etc.)
• - NICT Award for Entry into Entrepreneur Expo
• - Mentoring from ALPHA DRIVE
• - Three Years of Ongoing Support from Yokosuka City

Special Awards from WOOC

The BIZcomfort Prize, available to winning participants, includes special rental office benefits:

• - No Membership Fees (valued between ¥66,000 and ¥110,000)
• - No Utility Fees for the First 18 Months (valued between ¥118,800 and ¥475,200)
• - Free Registration and Mailing Services provided
• - Free Access to All BIZcomfort Locations Nationwide

Application Details

• - Launch Date: July 1, 2025 - August 25, 2025
• - Final Review: October 22, 2025, at Welc Yokosuka
• - Organizers: Yokosuka City, Kanagawa Prefecture, Keikyu Corporation
• - Supported by: WOOC, and others

For further details, you can visit the official Startup Audition site.

WOOC Company Overview

• - Company Name: WOOC, Inc.
• - CEO: Taisuke Sakaya
• - Location: 2-30-4 Nishi Gotanda, Shinagawa, Tokyo
• - Founded: September 2008
• - Capital: ¥175.1 Million
• - Annual Revenue: Approx. ¥6.7 Billion
• - Number of Locations: 184 rental offices and 177 coworking spaces

Commitment to Sustainability

Through its endeavors in repurposing vacant spaces and managing shared offices, WOOC is actively advancing SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals). BIZcomfort not only focuses on urban centers but extends into residential and suburban areas, fostering diverse work environments with enhanced productivity and contributing to both an enriched workforce and economic growth.

For more information on WOOC’s sustainability initiatives, please visit their SDGs page.