KAGORISE Seminar Series: An Open Innovation Initiative for Core Businesses in Kagoshima

Overview of the KAGORISE Seminar Series

KAGORISE is an open innovation support project initiated by AlphaDrive, led by CEO Yoichi Aso, in collaboration with Kagoshima Prefecture. This initiative aims to address the structural challenges faced by local businesses such as decreasing population, a shortage of successors, and the lag in digitalization.

The upcoming KAGORISE seminar series is designed specifically for core enterprises within the region, which typically have revenues of over 1 billion yen and employ more than 20 staff. The series will consist of three sessions held at the Kagoshima Prefectural Office, providing practical insights into open innovation. Each session is free of charge and limited to around 30 participants, ensuring an intimate learning environment.

Objectives of the KAGORISE Project

Kagoshima possesses a diverse industrial foundation based on rich primary industries, manufacturing, and tourism. However, in the wake of pressing challenges, the need for innovation and value creation is critical.

With this context, the KAGORISE initiative was launched to empower local core businesses and startups to cultivate their capacity for sustainable profit generation through an established startup ecosystem. Drawing from AlphaDrive's extensive experience supporting open innovation across over 30 prefectures in Japan, the project aims for lasting results.

Seminar Structure

The seminars will feature esteemed speakers with substantial expertise in innovation practices and business management. The first session will introduce the fundamentals of open innovation, followed by sessions that dive into practical methodologies for identifying customer needs and formulating new business strategies. The seminar timeline is as follows:

- July 6: Kick-off - “What is Open Innovation?” led by Yoichi Aso, CEO of AlphaDrive.
- August 5: Session 1 - “Key Points of New Business Development and Open Innovation” by Yusuke Doi, Co-CEO of Unijiji.
- August 24: Session 2 - “Identifying Customers and Challenges” by Ryuji Utsunomiya, Executive Officer at AlphaDrive Group.

Featured Speakers

1. Yoichi Aso - CEO of AlphaDrive, former director at Recruit Holdings, known for building systems that foster over 1,500 in-house entrepreneurs.
2. Yusuke Doi - Co-CEO of Unijiji and Head of the AlphaDrive Tokai Branch, specializing in AI and big data.
3. Ryuji Utsunomiya - Executive Officer and Head of Community Co-Creation at AlphaDrive, passionate about revitalizing local SME business development.

Individual Supporting Program

Additionally, two selected companies from seminar participants will receive in-depth assistance. This part of the initiative includes personalized support in identifying collaborative themes and potential startup partners to facilitate innovation. Eligible firms can apply for support which includes reimbursement up to 150,000 yen for activity expenses.

Application Process

Applications for the kick-off seminar close on July 5, and for the individual support program on July 26. Interested attendees can sign up through the proposed online forms.

About AlphaDrive

Established on February 23, 2018, with headquarters in Chiyoda, Tokyo, AlphaDrive is dedicated to supporting open innovation between large corporations, startups, and local authorities. The firm champions a comprehensive approach integrating development, innovation promotion, and regional growth. They strive to create sustainable economic models in collaboration with local communities and extensive regional networks.

For further inquiries or assistance, contact the KAGORISE operational staff via email during business hours. Join us in igniting innovation and promoting a prosperous future for the Kagoshima business community!