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JR West's Business Collaboration Program: Bernal

The JR West Group is on a mission to drive innovation through collaborative efforts with startups. The initiative, known as the Bernal Program, aims to tackle societal and local challenges by partnering with aspiring enterprises eager to innovate. Managed by UNIDGE, a subsidiary of AlphaDrive, this program is set to launch its recruitment phase from September 1, 2025, until October 31, 2025.

About the Bernal Program

Bernal serves as a dynamic platform designed to foster co-creation between JR West and startups. By leveraging the resources and capabilities of the JR West Group, the program seeks to accelerate the growth of participating startups. The collaboration highlights the potential of merging corporate assets with innovative ideas, paving the way for new business development opportunities.

In addition to providing a supportive framework, the program includes investment prospects through JR West Innovations, which may offer capital partnerships to promising participants.

Application Details for Interested Startups

To be part of the Bernal Program, interested startups must meet specific criteria. Applications are accepted from September 1 to October 31. Here are the key requirements:

• - Must be a Registered Corporation: Only legal entities are eligible to apply; individual applicants or non-profit organizations will not be considered.
• - Business Viability: Startups should have completed their business hypothesis testing and be ready to enter the market with their initial product or growth strategy. This is particularly suited for seed-stage enterprises poised for early-stage growth.
• - Engagement Commitment: Startups must commit to participate throughout the program duration, concluding with the final review meeting in March 2027.

Program Highlights and Events

For prospective applicants, there are several informative sessions planned:

1. Online Information Session: Scheduled for September 17, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM. Interested parties should sign up via the program’s official web portal.
2. Offline Information and Networking Events: Two in-person sessions will be conducted:
- Tokyo Venue: On September 17, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM at BIRTH LAB/WORK, Tokyo (Address: 2-21-1 Takanawa, Minato-ku).
- Osaka Venue: On October 1, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM at QUINTBRIDGE, Osaka (Address: 4-15-82 Higashinoda, Osaka).

For more details or to apply, visit the program’s dedicated website: Bernal Program Website.

About UNIDGE

UNIDGE specializes in supporting new business ventures and aims to realize open innovation beyond mere matching of companies. With a focus on robust support throughout the business creation process, UNIDGE has achieved remarkable success, assisting around 80 companies within just three years of its inception.

The team consists of experienced professionals who not only identify industry challenges but also meticulously design end goals, facilitating reproducible outcomes in collaborative business development.

For further information about UNIDGE, visit their company website here. Alternatively, queries can also be directed to AlphaDrive through their contact page here.

Conclusion

JR West’s Bernal Program presents an exciting opportunity for startups to collaborate with established corporate entities and contribute to meaningful solutions addressing various societal challenges. Together, they can shape the future landscape of innovation and business growth in the region.