Innovative Business Idea Contest by JICA
In an inspiring initiative to tackle social challenges through business, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) is set to conduct its first-ever business idea contest aimed at addressing the issues faced by refugees and host communities in Africa. This event will take place on August 3, 2025, at the Osaka Kansai Expo Theme Week Studio.
The current global refugee crisis is at an unprecedented scale, with over 120 million individuals living as refugees or internally displaced persons. These communities face extended periods of instability, requiring comprehensive support that extends beyond local communities and aid organizations to include private sector engagement. Notably, there has been a rising trend of refugees embarking on entrepreneurial ventures, positioning themselves as crucial actors in economic activities.
However, for Japanese companies, the concept of engaging with refugees and their host communities remains somewhat uncharted territory. There exists a notable gap in understanding the specific challenges, market needs, and potential applications of their products, technology, and services in this domain. To bridge this divide, JICA is leveraging its experiences from previous initiatives aimed at addressing social issues in developing countries and providing support for private sector engagement in refugee-related challenges.
The upcoming contest is a pioneering effort by JICA to explore the possibilities of business in refugee support. The final round of the competition will showcase seven finalists, chosen through rigorous preliminary screenings, who will present their innovative business ideas. These finalists, comprising individuals and groups, will provide insights into their proposed solutions tackling the challenges faced by refugees in countries like Ethiopia, Uganda, and Zambia.
Event Schedule
Date & Time: August 3, 2025, from 14:15 to 16:30
Venue: Osaka Kansai Expo Theme Week Studio
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Program:
1. Opening Remarks
2. Introduction of Business Overview
3. Final Presentations by 7 Selected Individuals/Groups
4. Screening of the Uganda Contest Video
5. Results Announcement and Closing Remarks
The event will be hosted by renowned personalities, Tomonori Jinnai, a comedian and YouTuber, and Takeyoko Takemura, a radio personality and writer. Additionally, this contest is co-hosted by the UNHCR Office in Japan and the Welcome Japan organization.
Media Coverage Opportunities
Media representatives are invited to cover the event and may have the opportunity for interviews with:
- - The seven finalists presenting business ideas
- - Judges evaluating the submissions
- - JICA representatives involved in the contest
JICA's Commitment to Refugee Support
JICA is dedicated to addressing the challenges faced by developing countries through various forms of assistance, including technical cooperation and financial aid. With operations spanning over 150 countries and regions, JICA collaborates with domestic and international partners to address global challenges closely related to Japan, contributing to worldwide peace and prosperity, as well as the continued development of Japanese society.
For further information about JICA's initiatives, please visit
JICA Official Website.