#Japan #Tokyo #Japan Venture Awards #SDGs Special Prize #Local Contribution Prize

The 25th Japan Venture Awards: A Celebration of Innovation

The Japan Venture Awards (JVA) is set to hold its 25th annual ceremony on December 18, 2025, at the Toranomon Hills Forum in Tokyo, and both in-person and online participation is now open for registration. This prestigious event will honor outstanding entrepreneurs and startups that have demonstrated exemplary innovation and commitment to economic growth in Japan.

What to Expect at the Awards Ceremony

This year’s awards will feature multiple prizes including the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Award, the Minister of Science and Technology Policy Award, the Small and Medium-sized Enterprise Agency Administrator Award, and the Chairman of the Small and Medium Enterprise Agency Award. Special recognitions will also be given through the SDGs Special Prize, which targets impactful startups, and the Local Contribution Special Prize, which acknowledges businesses addressing regional issues. These initiatives highlight the contributions of startups and entrepreneurs in various sectors.

Moreover, there will be special awards for venture capitalists who have significantly aided startup development, emphasizing the crucial role of investment in fostering innovation. Participants attending in-person will also have the opportunity to network with speakers during an exclusive business card exchange session post-ceremony.

Detailed Ceremony Schedule

• - Date: December 18, 2025
• - Time: 1:15 PM to 4:35 PM (with a networking session from 4:35 PM for about an hour)
• - Venue: Toranomon Hills Forum, 5th Floor, Toranomon Hills Mori Tower, 1-23-3 Toranomon, Minato-ku, Tokyo
• - Online Streaming Available

Entrepreneurial Programs

In conjunction with the award presentations, there will be engaging programs aimed at aspiring entrepreneurs and those invested in startup culture. This includes:

• - Opening Keynote Speech
• - VC and Startup Talk Sessions featuring previously awarded entrepreneurs
• - Presentations by Nominees of the 25th JVA that highlight their innovative projects

If you are interested in attending either in-person or virtually, registration is now open. For more details, please visit the official event page at Japan Venture Awards Registration.

About the Japan Venture Awards (JVA)

The Japan Venture Awards serves as a platform to recognize ambitious entrepreneurs leading innovative businesses with high growth potential. The initiative aims to spotlight exceptional startups that are bravely tackling new markets and creating impactful solutions. It also intends to cultivate the next generation of startup leaders by promoting successful role models within the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

For additional information about the Japan Venture Awards, please visit Japan Venture Awards Official Site.

About the Small and Medium Enterprise Agency (SMEA)

The Small and Medium Enterprise Agency is a policy implementation entity dedicated to promoting the autonomous growth and sustainability of small businesses and startups in Japan. By facilitating innovation and revitalization in local economies, the SMEA aims to address challenges faced by SMEs. Their efforts include direct support, talent development, networking opportunities, and financial assistance, thereby enhancing the capabilities of related support organizations.