Mirai Pitch: Enhancing Local Businesses in Fukuoka
On September 25, 2025, Fukuoka City will host the third iteration of the `Mirai Pitch` project, an initiative designed to encourage collaboration and growth among local businesses. This event, organized by multiple Economic and Industrial Bureau offices, aims to support small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in expanding their operations and fostering innovation through cooperative partnerships. The goal is to identify and nurture regional companies that can lead the way in economic development.
Background of Mirai Pitch
The Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) has identified certain companies as `Mirai Enterprises`, recognizing their potential as central players in revitalizing the regional economy. Through a series of targeted policies, METI provides essential support to these future-oriented companies, helping them achieve their growth objectives.
The `Mirai Pitch` initiative was launched in September 2024 by the Kanto Economic and Industrial Bureau, in partnership with other Economic and Industrial Bureau offices and the Small and Medium Enterprise Agency. This collaborative project commenced in major cities such as Tokyo and Nagoya, facilitating innovative business matchups that spark growth among SMEs.
Overview of the Third Edition of Mirai Pitch
Event Details
- - Date: September 25, 2025 (Thursday)
- - Time: 3:00 PM – 5:30 PM
- - Location: JR Hakata City, 10th Floor Conference Room C&D (Fukuoka City)
- - Format: Hybrid event (In-person and Online via Teams)
- - Organizers: Tohoku, Kanto, Chubu, Shikoku, and Kyushu Economic and Industrial Bureaus & the Small and Medium Enterprise Agency
- - Co-Organizer: Kyushu University Business School (QBS)
- - Target Audience: SMEs, startups, municipalities, industry support organizations, regional financial institutions, universities, research institutes, and venture capitalists
Program Overview
1.
Keynote Speech: Delivered by Prof. Takehiko Ogi, Dean of Kyushu University Business School
2.
Presentation of Collaboration Needs: Featured companies include:
- Kakuyichi Co., Ltd. (Nagano)
- Nikko Metal Co., Ltd. (Tochigi)
- Six additional companies will present their needs
3.
Introduction to Support Measures
4.
Networking Session: Opportunities for business card exchanges and discussions
Event Highlights
At this event, representatives from different regions will present their business challenges and collaboration needs. These needs will also be available on the Mirai Pitch special webpage within the J-GoodTech platform, encouraging connections with SMEs across Japan.
Moreover, the Small and Medium Enterprise Agency, along with various Economic and Industrial Bureaus, will offer follow-ups on negotiations and provide expert introductions in areas like grant systems and intellectual property, ensuring cooperation progresses smoothly.
This incarnation of the `Mirai Pitch` has expanded its participant base, now including businesses from Tohoku as a new target area. Additionally, mid-sized companies defined under the Industry Competitiveness Strengthening Act and those announcing a 10 billion yen commitment have also been incorporated into this event.
Companies Participating
- - Nikko Fine Mechanics Co., Ltd. (Iwate)
Presentation Title: Recycling Precious Metals and Creating Sustainable Jewelry
- - Kakuyichi Co., Ltd. (Nagano)
Presentation Title: Solving Social Issues with Energy and Disaster Prevention
- - Nikko Metal Co., Ltd. (Tochigi)
Presentation Title: Supporting a Sustainable Society through Long-Life Products
- - Nahibori Brewing Co., Ltd. (Gifu)
Presentation Title: Enhancing Agriculture with Unique Vinegar Recipes
- - Yokota Corporation (Tokushima)
Presentation Title: Seeking Partners for Automation Solutions to Address Labor Shortages
- - Rix Co., Ltd. (Fukuoka)
Presentation Title: Inviting Collaborative Partners for Problem Solving in Manufacturing
- - Sanmatsu Co., Ltd. (Fukuoka)
Presentation Title: Collaborative Product Development and Ideation
How to Apply for Participation or Coverage
Interested participants can apply via the Kyushu Economic and Industrial Bureau's website using the application form. The deadline for applications is September 24, 2025, at 4:00 PM.
For more details on the `Mirai Pitch` initiative and past events, visit: