Corporate Professionals Unite with Startups in Innovative Side Project Program

Uniting Enterprises and Startups: The Side Project Initiative

In a bold move to foster innovation and employee development, Loandeal, headquartered in Minato-ku, Tokyo, has introduced its eighth phase of the 'side project' program. This initiative encourages collaboration between large corporations and startups, allowing corporate professionals to dedicate 20% of their time over three months to engage in projects with emerging companies. From January 2026, a total of 26 individuals from eight major corporations will kick off projects in 20 diverse startups, embracing a unique cross-border training experience.

The Program's Objectives

This initiative is more than just a training program; it aims to cultivate talent within large organizations and invigorate their operations. Furthermore, it seeks to leverage the capabilities of seasoned corporate employees to drive growth in startups. This reciprocal relationship benefits both parties by fostering innovation and new perspectives.

Participating Corporations

The eighth phase of the -side project- program sees the participation of well-known companies such as Aisin, NTT Media Supply, and KDDI. Alongside these newcomers, established participants like TV Asahi, Morinaga, Hankyu Hanshin Real Estate, and Japan Post continue their involvement, contributing a total of 34 participants.

Highlights of This Year's Projects

Participants in the program will engage in projects featuring distinctive characteristics that expose them to groundbreaking business practices. Here are some notable areas of focus:

1. Driving Business Transformation Using AI:
Participants will work directly with management to implement AI governance systems, enhance operational efficiencies, and advance the social implementation of cutting-edge technologies. This hands-on exposure will provide invaluable insight into leading transformations at both technical and business levels.

2. Building Management Structures from Scratch:
The program allows participants to design and develop foundational elements such as budget management, performance forecasting, and M&A considerations. This experience enables participants to adopt the mindset of CFOs and COOs while gaining a comprehensive view of business operations.

3. Sales and Business Development in Untapped Markets:
Participants will focus on securing new clients and collaborating with municipalities. They will gain first-hand experience in navigating uncharted markets while making swift decisions from client acquisition to contract finalization.

Goals for Enhanced Organizational Culture

Through the -side project- program, Loandeal strives to encourage employees to pursue challenges and foster an empowering environment where diverse values, knowledge, and skills converge. This approach is expected to accelerate the development of individuals capable of tackling 'creation' and 'transformation', thereby driving innovation.

Future Prospects & Recruitment for the Ninth Phase

As the program progresses, Loandeal aims to continue enhancing the fluidity of talent through the 'side project', promoting individual career autonomy and stimulating dynamic industry growth. Currently, Loandeal is seeking companies to join the ninth phase of the program, which spans from May to July 2026.

For more information on how your organization can get involved, feel free to reach out.

Learn More About the Side Project

About Loandeal

Loandeal operates under the concept of 'cross-border' focusing on talent development, innovation, and career autonomy. Since launching its rental transfer business in September 2015, it has seen a remarkable increase in participating companies, including Nissan Motor Co., the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry, and Nomura Securities. The organization has also received several awards for its innovation in open innovation, including the Special Prize at the inaugural Japan Open Innovation Awards in 2019. As of January 2026, Loandeal collaborates with 82 major companies, engaging 387 individuals through its various programs.

Key Programs Offered

- Rental Transfer Program: Engaging corporate talent in startups for six months to one year, aimed at cultivating the next generation of leaders.
- Outsight: A program where corporate professionals discuss and debate with startup leaders online.
- Side Project: A training program allowing participation in startup projects over designated periods.