#Japan #Nagoya #Sports Innovation #Aichi Innovation #AiSIA Program

Introduction

Aichi Prefecture, in collaboration with various stakeholders, is excited to announce the launch of the 2025 AiSIA Acceleration Program, part of the Aichi Sports Innovation Project. This initiative invites innovative businesses to propose new services and solutions aimed at addressing challenges presented by professional sports teams. Selected proposals will have the unique opportunity to participate in a proof-of-concept experiment in collaboration with local teams, such as Nagoya Grampus and Toyota Verblaitz, at the beautiful Mizuho Park in Nagoya City.

The goal of this program is to drive economic growth and regional revitalization through innovation in sports, highlighting the importance of public-private partnerships and academic collaboration to expand business opportunities both within Aichi Prefecture and beyond.

Program Details and Themes

The Aichi Sports Innovation Project aims to promote innovation in the sports sector by creating new businesses and facilitating their expansion. The AiSIA Acceleration Program serves as the core strategy for this effort and focuses on collaborative proof-of-concept experiments with professional sports teams.

This year's program outlines two main themes in need of innovative solutions:

Theme 1: "Building a Sustainable Urban Community through Sports"

Partners: Nagoya Grampus (J1 Soccer Club) & Mizuho LOOP-PFI
This theme invites proposals that focus on climate change, utilizing both the extraordinary atmosphere on game days and the everyday environment to tackle CO2 emissions from stadiums. Innovative ideas that contribute to the development of an environmentally-friendly and sustainable hometown are highly sought after.

Theme 2: "Transforming Mizuho into a Rugby Town with Verblaitz"

Partners: Toyota Verblaitz (ONE Rugby League) & Mizuho LOOP-PFI
This theme seeks proposals aimed at establishing a deeply rooted rugby culture that is beloved by local residents, encouraging ideas that enhance the connection between the team and the community. Creative strategies for promoting Verblaitz's recognition and engagement within the hometowndash; ultimately leading to a vibrant rugby townndash; are welcome.

Mizuho Park

Mizuho Park is located in the heart of Nagoya City and boasts various sporting facilities, including the home stadium for Nagoya Grampus (currently under renovation), rugby fields, baseball diamonds, gymnasiums, and swimming pools. This expansive park is a hub for community interaction centered around sports.

Benefits of Participation

Companies that are selected for the acceleration program will enjoy numerous benefits, including:

• - Collaboration with Top-League Teams: Direct partnership opportunities with J-League and rugby teams to leverage their pulling power for quicker business rollout.
• - Proof-of-Concept Funding: Successful proposals will receive up to 3 million yen per company to cover experimental costs. Initial funding of up to 250,000 yen will be available for each of the two selected entities per theme.
• - Continued Support Possibility: Should the results be exceptional, there are opportunities for sustained support beyond 2026, fostering long-term business growth.
• - Access to Extensive Networks: Engage with resources, expertise, and networks available through Aichi Prefecture and partners such as Deloitte Tohmatsu Risk Advisory and The Small Things, enhancing business development strength.
• - Expert Mentorship: Personalized guidance from industry-focused mentors, including support from Yoshifumi Tagami, President of The Small Things, to help refine business plans and overcome challenges.

Schedule and Application Process

The application timeline for the program includes:

• - Application Period: August 20, 2025, to September 12, 2025, at 13:59.
• - Informational Session: An online session for potential applicants will be held on August 27, 2025, at 15:30, to explain program details.
• - Document Review: A selection process will occur in mid-September, with notifications expected by the end of that month.
• - Proof-of-Concept Phase: The initial phase is planned from October 2 to November 17, 2025.
• - Final Presentation Event: The program will culminate in a presentation event in March 2026, showcasing the outcomes of the projects.

Conclusion

The Small Things, in partnership with Aichi Prefecture, plays a crucial role as an operator for this acceleration program, utilizing our extensive experience in the sports business sector. We are committed to nurturing innovation and creating sustainable ecosystems in the sports industry through collaborative ventures. For those interested in this exciting opportunity, we encourage you to apply and to play a part in Aichi's dynamic sports innovation journey.