#Japan #Tokyo #MINT #FLAP #ivy

Mint's Launch of the 34th Term of FLAP

In a major initiative to support early-stage entrepreneurs, Mint, a venture capital firm located in Shibuya, Tokyo, has opened applications for the 34th term of its free office support program, known as FLAP. This innovative program aims to provide assistance to startups in their critical foundational stages, giving them access to vital resources and connections that can catalyze their growth.

What is FLAP?

FLAP stands for "Free Launching Assistance Program" and is designed specifically for entrepreneurs who are either in the preparatory stages of their startup journey or have recently launched their ventures. The selected participants will enjoy six months of complimentary office space in an incubation hub called "ivy" located just a six-minute walk from Shibuya Station, a prime location that can also serve as their official business registration address. The idea behind FLAP is to alleviate the financial strain that entrepreneurial ventures often face, particularly during their inception phase.

Instead of a traditional accelerator format that demands participants devote extensive time to structured learning, FLAP encourages a community-centric approach that fosters collaborative problem-solving and mutual support among entrepreneurs. This emphasis on peer-to-peer connection allows participants to leverage their shared experiences and insights in a more organic, less pressurized environment.

The Success of FLAP So Far

Since its inception in August 2018, FLAP has supported 33 cohorts and roughly 130 startups. The program is run quarterly, intending to be accessible to entrepreneurs at various stages of their journey. Many past participants have successfully secured funding from venture capitalists and angels or completed mergers and acquisitions, signaling the program's effectiveness in promoting startup success. Mint itself has invested in 18 companies that have emerged from FLAP to date.

Benefits for Participants

1. Six Months of Free Office Space
Participants will benefit from a fully equipped office space at ivy, significantly reducing the costs associated with setting up their businesses. This arrangement alleviates the usual stress of searching for viable rental spaces while allowing them access to a supportive environment suitable for growth.

2. Discounted Services for Startups
Mint is committed to helping entrepreneurs minimize their pre-launch expenses. This extends to offering a wide array of business tools at no cost or at a discounted rate, as well as access to plans that connect them with legal and tax professionals.

3. Entrepreneur Community
By joining the FLAP community, participants gain invaluable connections with fellow entrepreneurs at similar business stages. This camaraderie fosters shared learning and collaboration, allowing them to seek advice and support each other through potential challenges.

4. Networking Opportunities with Experts
The program also prioritizes networking with experienced professionals and notable entrepreneurs in various sectors, facilitating valuable mentorship opportunities. Events like monthly meet-ups and study sessions further encourage knowledge exchange within the community.

5. Fundraising Support from Mint
For programs lasting six months, Mint will consider investments of up to ¥150 million for startups needing funding. Previously, startups within FLAP have successfully received investments under this initiative.

Application Details for the 34th Term

• - Office Location: ivy, A-PLACE Shibuya Minami No. 2, 2nd Floor
• - Residency Period: October 1, 2026 – March 31, 2027.
• - Eligibility:

1. Entrepreneurs in the preparatory or early startup stage.
2. Those who envision a growth strategy involving future fundraising.
3. Individuals willing to proactively engage in the FLAP community.

• - Application Period: September 4, 2026 - September 15, 2026.
• - Application URL: Apply Here

About Mint

Mint is a venture capital firm that specializes in seed and pre-seed funding, managing a fund originally valued at ¥5.2 billion since 2021 and a subsequent fund targeting ¥10 billion by 2025. In addition to supporting startups, Mint also runs the FLAP office support program aimed at entrepreneurs from inception to growth stages.

Company Information:

• - Name: Mint, Inc.
• - General Partners: Keisuke Kigure, Tomoki Shirakawa, Hironori Takeda
• - Location: 2-17, Minami-Nakano, Shibuya, Tokyo
• - Investment Focus: Various sectors including internet, entertainment, AI, deep tech, and crypto.
• - Investment Range: ¥10 million to ¥750 million
• - Website: Mint VC