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Mie Startup Conference Vol.12: Igniting Innovation

The Mie Startup Conference Vol.12 is set to take place on January 26, 2026, at FOLK FOLK in Ise City, marking an important step in the regional startup ecosystem. Organized by AlphaDrive, under the auspices of Mie Prefecture's Startup Support Platform established in August 2023, this event aims at fostering startups and their growth by accelerating the region’s innovation drive.

Event Overview

This event is unique in its format, featuring an engaging workshop entitled “Junkin” (循金), which focuses on understanding the realities of fundraising. Rather than having designated speakers, attendees will collaboratively share and discuss their personal experiences with fundraising amounts, creating a unique platform for knowledge exchange. This workshop is geared towards deepening the understanding of crucial funding stages for startups.

Workshop Highlights:

• - Kick-off: Registration starts at 14:00, and the official program kicks off at 14:30.
• - Interactive Experience: Participants will learn from each other through structured interactions based on their fundraising experiences, facilitated by the workshop’s open format.
• - Networking Opportunities: Attendees can engage in informal discussions, answer questions, and contribute to a communal exploration of financing options within the startup community.
• - Conclusion: The workshop concludes at 17:00, summarizing the insights shared.

Venue Details

The FOLK FOLK venue will provide a visually appealing yet warm atmosphere, encouraging networking and collaboration among participants. It offers free parking and is conveniently located within a 15-minute walk from Kintetsu Ujiyamada Station. However, please note that the event will not be streamed online, emphasizing the importance of physical presence for meaningful interactions.

Facilitator Insights

The workshop will be facilitated by Michiya Higashiyama, a seasoned leader in the wedding and event industry and the owner of CO Blue Center. With a diverse background in creativity and entrepreneurship, Michiya brings valuable insights into the decision-making processes behind fundraising and business growth.

Participatory Framework

Designed for various audience segments including aspiring entrepreneurs, business professionals, and students, the conference encourages participation from anyone interested in startup growth. It is also supported by 88 member organizations of the Mie Startup Support Platform, which comprises financial institutions, educational bodies, and other stakeholders committed to fostering local entrepreneurship.

Target Audience:

• - Entrepreneurs and aspiring business owners.
• - Students and second-stage entrepreneurs seeking guidance.
• - Startup support organizations and facilitators.

Registration Details

Potential attendees are encouraged to register by submitting the online form available at Registration Link. The registration will close on January 23, 2026, or when the limit of 50 participants is reached.

Additional Support Initiatives

Beyond the conference, Mie Prefecture also offers extensive support for entrepreneurs through dedicated consultation windows. These counseling services assist in various areas, from business planning to fundraising strategies, ensuring that local entrepreneurs have access to the resources they need to thrive.

For more detailed information about the startup consultation services, individuals can visit the official website of the Mie Startup Support Platform.

Conclusion

The Mie Startup Conference Vol.12 stands as a testament to Mie Prefecture’s commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. By hosting such interactive events, AlphaDrive significantly contributes to building a robust startup ecosystem, paving the way for future ventures and collaborations in the region. Don’t miss the chance to be a part of this transformative experience!