Okayama University Achieves Recognition in AgriFood Innovation at 2025 SBIR Pitch Matching Event

A Landmark Achievement by Okayama University in AgriFood Technology

Okayama University continues to position itself as a leading institution in agricultural and food technology innovation. A notable event took place on March 17, 2025, in Tokyo, where a research team led by Associate Professor Junpei Uchiyama from the Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences was awarded the prestigious “Good Breakthrough Tech Presentation Award” at the AgriFood SBIR Pitch Matching 2025 event.

The competition featured a total of 45 teams, all candidates accepted into Japan's Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries’ SBIR support program for the years 2021-2024. Each team presented their cutting-edge technologies and business plans aimed at accelerating commercialization through matching opportunities.

Uchiyama's team, which has been recognized under the SBIR program, focused on their groundbreaking project titled, “Stepping Away from Antibiotics: Next-Generation Solutions Pioneered by Antimicrobial Enzymes.” This innovative approach proposes the development of new veterinary medicines utilizing antimicrobial enzymes. The project's scientific merit and potential for business success garnered high praise at the event, leading to recognition from attendees including financial institutions, venture capitalists, and public organizations, ultimately ensuring their victory.

As they move forward, the team intends to further their research and transform their achievements into viable business applications, continuing to seek further technological advancements within the agricultural sector. This recognition is not only a testament to their work but also reflects the university’s commitment to nurturing innovation and technology in local and global markets.

In addition to Uchiyama's accolades, the event underscored another important development: Iyo Uchiyama, a visiting researcher in the Department of Pathogenic Bacteriology at Okayama University, was certified as Okayama University’s first Super Agri Creator (SAC). This certification recognizes young research entrepreneurs poised to impact the AgriFood tech sector. The selection process included a thorough evaluation, marking a significant milestone for Okayama University and its research endeavors.

The SAC discovery support program is part of the SBIR initiative, designed to identify and elevate talented young professionals in the AgriFood tech field. This program includes mentorship and workshops aimed at enhancing skills, ensuring participants are prepared for future challenges in a rapidly evolving ecosystem. Successful completion of the program and passing requisite evaluations lead to designation as a SAC, solidifying the participant's position as a leader in this space.

As Okayama University continues to support startup ecosystems through its Venture Creation Office, it remains committed to fostering innovation within both regional and international communities. This initiative includes guidance on business plans and management consultations, ultimately encouraging faculty and students interested in venturing into entrepreneurship. Potentiality in the startup and venture creation process encourages academic collaborations, further extending the university's innovative reach.

The backing and initiatives provided nurture a robust atmosphere for emerging technologies and businesses, aligning with regional development goals. Okayama University stands as a distinctive research university that not only contributes significantly to scientific advancements but also actively supports its community and its own future leaders in the field.

All eyes now turn to Okayama University as it embarks on this journey toward leveraging academic breakthroughs for the benefit of society and the broader agricultural technology landscape.