Entrepreneurial Experience Events for Students in Tokyo
The Tokyo metropolitan government, in collaboration with KADOKAWA ASCII Research Institute, has announced the launch of the 2026 Entrepreneurial Experience Events and Workshops aimed at engaging elementary and middle school students across the city. This initiative is part of a broader educational effort to nurture entrepreneurial spirit among young generations.
The KADOKAWA ASCII Research Institute has been functioning as the operational office for the entrepreneurial education program for Tokyo's schools since 2021. Together with the Tokyo Bureau of Industrial and Labor Affairs, this initiative aims to inspire children to consider entrepreneurship as a viable career path and encourage innovative thinking from a young age.
Details of the Events
Entrepreneurial Experience Event
Held as a one-day immersive event, the Entrepreneurial Experience Event allows students to understand the process of starting a business. Participants will work in groups to experience key steps involved in launching a company, including market research, funding, material sourcing, advertising, sales, and accounting. This engaging format is designed to convey the excitement of building a business and the fun of collaborating with peers, broadening horizons for future choices in entrepreneurship.
- - Eligibility: 30 participants per session (lottery will be conducted if applications exceed available spots).
- - Cost: Free (participants must cover their own transportation expenses, and no meals will be provided).
Schedule for Elementary Students (Grades 4-6)
- - August 1st (Saturday): 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM, KADOKAWA ASCII Research Institute, Chiyoda-ku (Tokyo).
- - August 8th (Saturday): 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM, Open Innovation Field Tama, Hachioji.
Application Period: June 15th - July 12th for Chiyoda, June 15th - July 19th for Hachioji.
Schedule for Middle School Students
- - August 2nd (Sunday): 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM, KADOKAWA ASCII Research Institute, Chiyoda-ku.
- - August 7th (Friday): 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM, Open Innovation Field Tama, Hachioji.
Application Period: Same as above.
Entrepreneurial Experience Workshop
This five-day program is designed for students to deeply explore entrepreneurial thinking. The curriculum includes activities like gathering information, generating ideas, refining concepts, formulating business models, producing presentations, and reflecting on their learnings. The workshops aim to instill a mindset for problem-solving through business and develop the skills necessary to overcome challenges with peers, fostering entrepreneurial spirit for the future.
- - Eligibility: 10 spots for both elementary (Grades 4-6) and middle school students (lottery if applications exceed available spots).
- - Cost: Free (participants must cover their own transportation expenses, and no meals will be provided).
Schedule for the Workshops
- - Day 1: November 14th (Saturday) 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM (Elementary) / 2:00 PM - 4:30 PM (Middle School)
- - Day 2: November 21st
- - Day 3: November 28th
- - Day 4: November 29th
- - Day 5: December 5th (Joint Day) 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
- - Location for Days 1-4: KADOKAWA ASCII Research Institute, Chiyoda-ku.
- - Location for Day 5: Tokyo Innovation Base, Chiyoda-ku.
Application Period for Workshops: July 31st - October 11th
How to Apply
For more details and application procedures, visit the official website of the "Elementary and Middle School Entrepreneur Education Program".
Contact Information
For inquiries, please reach out to the administration office of the Entrepreneurial Education Promotion Project at KADOKAWA ASCII Research Institute.
What is Entrepreneurial Education?
Entrepreneurial education is not exclusive to entrepreneurs or company executives. It encompasses the development of skills necessary for creating new value while collaborating with others. This educational approach is designed to equip young people with the capabilities needed to thrive in today's world.
About KADOKAWA ASCII Research Institute
KADOKAWA ASCII Research Institute leverages its expertise in media operations and content creation to provide research, consulting, marketing, business solutions, publishing, and educational support services across a wide range of fields. With a strong emphasis on content, media, and research capabilities, the firm addresses challenges faced by corporations, municipalities, and governmental agencies.