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Haruna Kojima's New Initiative to Inspire Young Entrepreneurs

Tokyo is buzzing with excitement as the 12th edition of the "TOKYO STARTUP GATEWAY 2025" kicks off! This unique startup business contest, hosted by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and administered by the NPO ETIC, aims to nurture young entrepreneurs capable of changing the world with just 400 words. The theme this year is "Transform Your Experience into Ideas," exemplifying how personal history can shape innovative business solutions.

Haruna Kojima, a notable talent and entrepreneur, is collaborating on promotional materials, including videos and posters, that will be showcased in Tokyo's public transport and across social media platforms starting from May 30. Her entrepreneurial journey began with the establishment of her lifestyle brand, heart relation, which has since garnered attention for its innovative approach and unique offerings.

The special interview conducted with Kojima discusses her personal experiences that ignited her entrepreneurial spirit and the essential skills needed for aspiring business owners. She also shares encouraging messages for those contemplating their own startup journeys. For those unsure about their submissions or who need guidance, the special campaign website offers a wealth of resources to help craft their 400-word business ideas.

Moreover, the site features interviews with previous finalists and semi-finalists from the competition, shedding light on diverse and innovative approaches to entrepreneurship.

An Overview of the TOKYO STARTUP GATEWAY 2025

The TOKYO STARTUP GATEWAY is not just about presenting polished business plans; it invites participants to express their creative aspirations and ideas openly. The only requirement for entry is crafting a compelling 400-word idea, offering immense encouragement for individuals to share their visions without the pressure of a detailed business plan.

The contest aims to expand the entrepreneurial ecosystem by providing entry points into the world of business and supporting successful candidates with resources such as startup funding, mentorship, and community building. For those interested in submitting their ideas, the deadline is July 6, 2025, at 11:59 PM local time.

Marketing Campaign and Exposure

From May 30 until mid-July, various promotional campaigns will run, featuring transit advertisements in the Tokyo metro area. Both physical posters and digital advertisements will be ubiquitous across multiple platforms such as YouTube, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok to maximize outreach. Kojima’s involvement is expected to inspire many aspiring entrepreneurs to explore their potential.

Community and Support Initiatives

The initiative has facilitated an online community where budding entrepreneurs can engage in discussions, share knowledge, and support each other's ventures. The new format of this community allows for thematic gatherings aimed at nurturing community involvement across different demographics, from students to young professionals. The diversity in themes includes sessions for young entrepreneurs, women, social innovators, and individuals looking to explore international business avenues.

ETIC, the organization behind the contest, has been instrumental in empowering individuals since 1993, championing the idea that anyone with a passion can contribute meaningfully to society. Their extensive experience includes nurturing thousands of entrepreneurs through focused programs designed to bridge ideas and practical execution.

With the Tokyo Metropolitan Government aiming to solidify a supportive ecosystem of startups, initiatives like the TOKYO STARTUP GATEWAY encourage individuals to believe they can enact genuine change through their ideas. As part of the local government's long-term strategy, they are committed to achieving higher startup rates by 2035, ultimately enhancing the city's entrepreneurial landscape.

The official site for the contest is here, and all interested parties can find comprehensive details about the contest and how to register.

Conclusion

By emphasizing personal experiences and shared narratives, the TOKYO STARTUP GATEWAY 2025 embodies a spirit of collaboration and innovation. Haruna Kojima's efforts in promoting and nurturing young talent through this campaign are sure to leave a lasting impact on Tokyo's entrepreneurial community, inspiring a new generation of creators and innovators. Let’s see how many game-changers emerge this time around!