LaunchStarz Kicks Off Ryukyu Launchpad 2025
LaunchStarz Inc., headquartered in Los Angeles, CA, has officially launched its new program,
Ryukyu Launchpad 2025, aimed at supporting startups in their overseas expansion efforts. This initiative will focus on facilitating entry into markets in the United States, South Korea, Singapore, Vietnam, and Indonesia. The program runs from
May 8, 2025, to
November 2025, with the aim of bolstering the international outreach of startups from Okinawa, Japan.
What is Ryukyu Launchpad 2025?
The
Ryukyu Launchpad 2025 is a collaborative initiative commissioned by
Okinawa Prefecture and operated by LaunchStarz in conjunction with the
Zero One Booster consortium. This program stems from the increasing globalization in recent years and aims to strengthen Okinawa's position as a gateway for innovation.
With a variety of efforts in place to support startups in Okinawa, this program marks a significant step toward promoting global diversity and ensuring that local startups can effectively navigate international markets.
Eligibility for Participation
Startups interested in participating must meet one of the following criteria:
- - Have their main office located in Okinawa.
- - Employ an executive responsible for overseas expansion who resides in Okinawa.
- - Consider establishing a base in Okinawa is also acceptable.
For complete eligibility requirements, please visit the program's website.
Program Benefits
Companies that are selected to participate in Ryukyu Launchpad 2025 will receive approximately
seven months of intensive support focused on business creation. Here are some of the benefits:
- - Informational sessions on market trends and business customs from each participating country.
- - Mentoring opportunities from professionals specialized in various industries.
- - A travel program to visit targeted countries.
- - Subsidization of travel costs for participants attending a two-week local program.
- - Opportunities for networking and business discussions aimed at expanding market reach and securing funding.
- - Participation in pitch events and dissemination of press releases for PR efforts.
- - Access to community spaces for business operations in the U.S. and Asia.
Timeline of Activities
The program's schedule is as follows:
- - Pre-Information Sessions: May 29 (North America), June 3 (Asia)
- - Application Period: May 8 - June 30
- - Evaluation: July to August (including document reviews, interviews, and final pitches)
- - Support Phase: Mid-August to Mid-November
- - Demo Day (results report meeting) in Okinawa: February 5, 2026
Strategic Partnerships
LaunchStarz collaborates with leading partners, including:
1.
Zero One Booster - coordinating the Japan side of the program and managing operations for South Korea.
2.
JSIP Pte. Ltd. - managing the Singapore program and fostering a community for Japanese companies entering Southeast Asia.
3.
Meet Ventures - leading operational efforts in Indonesia while facilitating innovation consultancy and venture capital support.
4.
InnoLab Asia - coordinating in Vietnam and supporting open innovation projects.
Upcoming Information Sessions
To better understand the
Ryukyu Launchpad 2025, information sessions will provide insights into the program and the unique characteristics of each country's startup ecosystem. Individual consultations are also available for inquiries about eligibility and to receive guidance from experienced mentors in international expansion.
Visit the official website for detailed information on the program and registration for pre-information sessions:
Ryukyu Launchpad 2025.
For further inquiries, feel free to reach out via email at
contact@launchstarz.com.
About LaunchStarz Inc.
Founded by co-CEOs
Satoshi Miyakawa and
Kenny Lum, LaunchStarz Inc. is dedicated to supporting aspiring entrepreneurs and leaders. With substantial experience in assisting over 350 Japanese startups in entering the North American market, LaunchStarz is equipped to provide tailored, hands-on support throughout every phase from launch to growth. The company emphasizes fostering entrepreneurship and leadership, with a mission to empower forward-thinking business leaders.
For more information about LaunchStarz, visit our website at
LaunchStarz Inc..