#Japan #Entrepreneurship #Kobe #Hyogo #Gaiax

Introduction

In an exciting initiative to foster innovation and entrepreneurship among the youth, Gaiax Co., Ltd., a leading Japanese company based in Chiyoda, Tokyo, is launching a Trial Entrepreneurship Program in collaboration with Hyogo Prefecture. This program is specifically designed for students and young professionals aged 30 and under who reside in Hyogo. It aims to guide participants from ideation to actual business establishment by providing essential support and resources.

Program Overview

The Trial Entrepreneurship Program consists of two key components: a Pre-Course and a Practical Verification Program. The Pre-Course will help participants enhance their entrepreneurial ideas through a series of structured sessions, while the Verification Program focuses on implementing these ideas into an actionable business plan.

Pre-Course

The Pre-Course is designed to help participants systematically learn how to develop their entrepreneurial ideas. It includes:

1. Idea Generation: Participants will learn to identify problems around them and brainstorm solutions that could potentially become products or services.
2. Idea Validation: They will also explore the use of generative AI and no-code tools to create prototypes and validate the usefulness of their business ideas.
3. Idea Implementation: The final part of the Pre-Course will challenge them to solve actual problems while learning project management and effective communication strategies.

Practical Verification Program

This component of the program is focused on verifying business plans and implementing solutions to real-world issues. Each participant will receive personalized mentoring from a business support expert to cater to their specific needs and situation. The goals include proving the formulated business plan and potentially launching a new business.

Support and Funding

Participants demonstrating outstanding ideas can benefit from professional mentorship, financial support of up to ¥200,000, and assistance in customer introductions. Last year's program saw significant success, with all participants completing prototype development and customer testing. Notably, two participants successfully launched businesses, and four generated revenue through their projects.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for this program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• - Be 30 years old or younger at the time of application.
• - Reside in Hyogo Prefecture or be affiliated with a university or company in the area.
• - Consider starting a business in Hyogo in the future.
• - Commit to engaging in program activities and networking with fellow participants.

The program will accept around 30 participants for each Pre-Course session on a first-come, first-served basis and about 10 for the Practical Verification phase.

Important Dates

• - Pre-Course Sessions:

- First Session: June 21, 2026
- Second Session: July 12, 2026
- Third Session: July 20, 2026

• - Main Application Period: July 1, 2026, to July 31, 2026 (with a preliminary application from May 15 to June 30, 2026).
• - Program Duration: September 2026 to March 2027.

Location and Costs

The program will be held at the Startup Plaza Hyogo located in the central area of Kobe City, with a combination of in-person and online activities. Remarkably, there is no participation fee.

Concluding Thoughts

Gaiax has been engaged in entrepreneurial education programs targeted at various age groups, from elementary school students to young adults. Their commitment to fostering a culture of entrepreneurship continues to shape new innovators in the region.

For more information or to apply, visit Gaiax's official page. Visit Gaiax's site to learn more about their entrepreneurial education initiatives and achievements.

About Gaiax

Founded in March 1999, Gaiax is recognized for its contributions to the social media sector, sharing economy, blockchain innovations, and startup incubation. More details about the company can be found at Gaiax's Corporate Website.