#Japan #Tokyo #Rural Revitalization #Pasona #INACOME

INACOME Business Contest: Unleashing Innovative Solutions for Rural Revitalization

The Pasona Agricultural Support Team has officially announced the launch of the 2023 INACOME Business Contest, aiming to empower rural communities through innovative business ideas. This initiative is set to gather inventive proposals from July 1, with a final competition scheduled for December 19 in Tokyo. The focus of the contest is on harnessing local resources in agrarian, mountainous, and fishing villages to tackle specific community challenges.

Overview of the Contest

The INACOME Business Contest features two key categories:
1. Idea Category: Open to individuals with a vision to initiate businesses in agrarian areas within the next three years.
2. Startup Category: Targeting individuals who have already launched a business within the last five years.

Application Process

The application period runs from July 1 (9:00 AM) to September 28 (11:59 PM). Participants are encouraged to submit ideas that can lead to local revitalization, addressing themes such as:

• - Utilization of diverse regional resources
• - Enhancements through ICT to energize local economies
• - Increasing community engagement and collaboration
• - Interdisciplinary approaches combining agriculture with other sectors
• - Creative solutions for unused farmland
• - Fostering urban-rural exchanges

The initial evaluation will involve a document review from September 29 to October 10, followed by announcements of the results on October 17. Approximately 20 selected candidates will then present their ideas through a 5-minute online pitch on November 8.

Final Competition and Support

The finalists chosen from the presentations will advance to the main event in December, where they will present in front of judges composed of business experts and sponsors. During this event, participants will receive advisory support from industry professionals, enhancing the viability of their proposals. Additionally, winners will be awarded various regional products and specialties.

Objectives of the Contest

The Pasona Agricultural Support Team aims to draw out the potential of rural areas across Japan, fostering economic sustainability and social contributions through creative entrepreneurial challenges. The contest is backed by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, emphasizing its commitment to the revitalization of rural communities through the Annual Rural Area Support Fund.

Benefits for Participants

Participants in the final competition will enjoy several benefits, including:

• - Expert guidance from sponsors and industry professionals aimed at business development.
• - Prize offerings including local agricultural goods and processed products.
• - Coverage and promotion of their innovative ventures through various media channels.

How to Apply

To participate in this exciting opportunity, candidates can register online at the official INACOME contest page. A free INACOME membership is required for submissions.

For more information, interested applicants can reach out to:

• - Pasona Agricultural Support Team, Regional Revitalization Division
• - Phone: 03-6734-1260
• - Email: [email protected]

Join us in paving the way for innovative solutions that can lead to thriving rural communities in Japan!