For Startups Appoints New Executive Officer to Boost Growth Initiatives

For Startups Welcomes New Executive Officer

In an exciting development, For Startups Inc., a company focused on enhancing growth in the industry, has announced the appointment of Satoko Suzuki as the new Executive Officer for the Open Innovation Division, effective September 1, 2025. This strategic move aims to further accelerate the company’s vision of “for Startups”, enhancing its capability in supporting growth industries and improving decision-making efficiency.

Background of the Appointment

The strengthening of this structure is essential for the company as it plans to escalate its initiatives under the “for Startups” vision. By bringing in Suzuki, who has a wealth of experience from both large corporations and startups, For Startups aims to enhance the quality and speed of decision-making and promote sustainable growth for both the business and its organizational framework.

With a history of impactful contributions in various sectors, Suzuki’s experience will significantly enhance the company’s operational capacity. Previously, she served as the Chief Officer of Human Capital Division and is now set to contribute her expertise in open innovation to streamlining processes and project management.

Satoko Suzuki's Vision

In her statement regarding her new role, Suzuki reflected on the evolving landscape for startups in Japan since the announcement of a five-year development plan. She noted that while the environment is changing rapidly, the establishment of a robust ecosystem is the result of the accumulated efforts and passions of many people. Suzuki expressed deep gratitude towards those who have built this foundation and articulated her commitment to be part of the new challenges that lie ahead.

Six years ago, Suzuki metaphorically compared the organization “for Startups”, the startups themselves, and the society in Japan to an “egg” waiting to hatch and take flight. She affirmed that her dedication to nurturing these startups remains unwavering and is now even more resolute. However, she highlighted the reality that despite immense potential, many talented individuals are still not able to take that first step towards challenge due to various environmental factors and the opportunities presented to them.

Suzuki emphasized the urgency of changing this reality if Japan's future is to be bright. She aims to create “crossroads” where challengers and society intersect, fostering new value. According to her, it is the responsibility of the challengers themselves to open the doors to opportunities. The role of For Startups is to create an environment that fosters connections and pathways for these individuals to take that crucial first step.

GRIC: A Symbol of Growth

One of the symbols of this commitment to fostering growth is the GRIC (Growth Industry Conference), recognized as one of the largest global conferences in Japan. Held annually in November, it serves as a platform for domestic and international startups and ecosystem builders to meet, engage, and collaborate, amplifying the voices of challengers and strongly supporting the global advancement of domestic startups.

Additionally, the Public Affairs Division plays a vital role as a bridge between society and those who embrace challenges, transforming the voices of these challengers into societal action. The understanding and empathy that emerge from these interactions are essential for rooting the chain of challenges deeply within society.

While benefiting from favorable policies, For Startups is committed to actively supporting challenges and building structures to solve social issues.

A Platform for Change

For Startups is not merely a talent introduction company. It firmly believes that choosing to become a startup can change lives and society at large. Committed to truly supporting challengers, For Startups has become Japan’s largest support team. Suzuki affirmed that a thriving challenger will contribute to strengthening Japan.

With this belief, the company aims to connect the knowledge and networks accumulated over the years to the next generation, establishing growth industry support as a “platform for a future-supportive society.”

About Satoko Suzuki

Satoko Suzuki, a graduate of Recruit Co., began her career in corporate sales at an advertising agency and later joined Sumitomo Realty & Development Co., where she played a vital role in launching the “Morning Pitch”. She contributed to business expansion during the early stages at KAIZEN platform and led group-wide PR efforts at Metaps, supporting its listing on the Mothers market. In 2019, she joined For Startups Inc., where she has led talent production, strategic PR, and conference initiatives. In 2021, she was appointed Executive Officer and elevated to Chief Officer in 2023. Additionally, she serves as a mentor for Tokyo's support projects, as a guest professor at iU Information Management Innovation Program University, and as the Vice President of Communication at Fukuoka Growth Next.