#Japan #Fukuoka #Digital Hollywood #G's #NEXT ENGINEER CATAPULT

The Launch of NEXT ENGINEER CATAPULT in Fukuoka

Fukuoka City is taking a bold step forward in nurturing its engineering talent through the new initiative: NEXT ENGINEER CATAPULT. Operated by Digital Hollywood, led by President Masanori Fujii, this innovative program aims to directly connect students with internships within the tech sector. The initiative will officially kick off in August 2026, with applications opening on June 8, 2026.

Overview of the Program

This pioneering program is designed specifically for students from Fukuoka Prefecture, targeting those who aspire to become engineers and entrepreneurs. The curriculum spans six months and covers various essential topics ranging from web application development to AI-driven projects. Participants will gain hands-on experience, working on real-world applications alongside industry professionals.

Key Features

1. Peer Learning and Real-World Mentorship
The program emphasizes a unique peer-to-peer learning approach where students can engage with each other and enhance their skills through collaborative coding exercises and community support. Instructors include active engineers who provide lectures, conduct public code reviews, and facilitate skill development in coding and essential soft skills. This method not only fosters knowledge but also instills a sense of engineering culture among participants.

2. Comprehensive Curriculum
From foundational tech skills to advanced team development, students will dive deep into a wide range of topics, such as AI implementation and data utilization. The program concludes with a grand showcase known as the Product Demo Day where students present their projects developed in collaboration with mentoring companies. This event also serves as a networking opportunity for students looking to secure internships.

3. Affordability and Recognition
With a course fee of only 10,000 yen, this program is accessible to many students. Additionally, participants who successfully complete the course will receive both a monetary reward equivalent to their tuition and a completion certificate from Fukuoka City, further incentivizing students to excel.

Historical Success

Past iterations of this initiative have already seen significant success, with on-track hiring figures reaching impressive numbers: 11 internship placements in 2021, 6 placements in 2022, and a gradual increase to 10 in 2025. Companies such as Nulab, Fusic, and Horizon Technologies have been among the employers providing these internship opportunities, paving the path for students toward their careers.

Program Details

• - Duration: July 2026 - Mid-January 2027
• - Capacity: Approximately 40 students
• - Tuition: 10,000 yen
• - Application Period: June 8, 2026 - July 8, 2026
• - Eligibility: Current students at universities, colleges, or vocational schools in Fukuoka Prefecture.
• - Selection Process: Candidates will undergo a screening based on preliminary tasks between July 17 and August 17.

Kickoff Event

To generate interest and excitement for this program, a kickoff event will be held on June 21, 2026, at the Engineer Cafe in Fukuoka. This free event will feature discussions with program alumni about their transitions from students to professionals, providing insights into the engineering field to prospective participants.

About G's

G's is a forward-thinking educational organization dedicated to empowering individuals to harness technology to impact society meaningfully. With around 80% of graduates aiming to launch startups or join ventures, its track record of over 121 new companies established reflects a robust ecosystem supporting entrepreneurial aspirations. Additionally, G's operates the D ROCKETS incubator, providing necessary investments to catalyze the growth of new services emerging from Japan's tech landscape.

As the NEXT ENGINEER CATAPULT program gets underway, Fukuoka City reaffirms its commitment to becoming an engineer-friendly environment, fostering connections between students and local businesses, and catalyzing the growth of new engineering talent. The stage is set for a promising future in Fukuoka's burgeoning tech scene.