Emerging Nature-Positive Industries: Eight Startups Selected for Real-World Implementation

Introduction to the Nature Governance Startup Program

The SUNDRED Corporation, based in Shibuya, Tokyo, is leading an initiative titled the Nature Governance Startup Program (NGSP), which is part of the Tokyo Startup ecosystem support project "TOKYO SUTEAM". After a rigorous selection process, eight startups have been confirmed to advance to Phase 2 of the program, focusing on the creation of nature-positive industries. This innovative approach seeks not only to protect our environment but also to generate economic value through the restoration of natural resources.

Program Structure

The NGSP consists of two main phases. Phase 1, which lasted approximately five months, involved developing business agendas, mentoring, and workshops for the selected startups. During this phase, 13 startups participated, benefiting from over 50 mentoring sessions and four workshops. Phase 2 marks the transition to practical implementation, during which the focus will be on real-world trial experiments that reinforce the feasibility of the startups' projects. The program is set to launch in May 2026, in collaboration with various municipalities and corporations across Japan.

An Overview of Phase 1 Results

Throughout the first phase, SUNDRED worked intensively with the 13 startups to enhance their business models. The support included extensive discussions and interviews that highlighted the startups' missions and business details. In addition, 30 support personnel were selected to assist these startups in their efforts. This robust groundwork laid the necessary foundation for the success of the startups moving forward.

Selection of Eight Startups for Phase 2

The selection for Phase 2 was not based on mere ideas but evaluated the readiness of startups to conduct practical field tests. Engaging with over 20 municipalities, universities, and corporations, the SUNDRED team held approximately 40 direct negotiations to ensure the advancement of eight startups. These companies are not merely involved in environmental protection; they aim to lead the way in creating economic value through the recovery of natural capital. Their business models reverse the perception of nature restoration costs into investments that circulate within local economies.

Diverse Approaches of the Selected Startups

The chosen startups will implement various approaches, from soil regeneration using medicinal herbs to ocean restoration through kelp and watershed data visualization. Each startup’s project addresses unique, locally-rooted natural capital challenges, marking the commencement of their real-world trials.

Nature Governance and Co-Creation Model

The program’s objective transcends mere data collection; it aims to establish a co-creation model where researchers, local governments, residents, and businesses collaboratively set challenges and seek solutions. This equal partnership has already resulted in collaboration with over 20 organizations. The co-creation and betterment of local communities are integral to the program.

Upcoming Schedule

Following the completion of team formations by June, the program will enter the experimental phase, which includes intensive support for the startups across Japan. We anticipate accelerated efforts toward commercialization and expansion based on the outcomes of the experiments conducted.

Closing Remarks

SUNDRED Corporation is committed to driving a shift towards a nature-positive society that not only halts biodiversity loss but also leads to a redefined approach to social and economic development. The Nature Governance Startup Program represents an exciting step toward innovation, collaboration, and sustainable growth for present and future generations.

References

About SUNDRED Corporation

- Founded: March 2017
- CEO: Masanobu Tome
- Headquarters: Ebisu Garden Place Tower, Shibuya, Tokyo
- Business Aim: To create 100 new industries as an "Ecosystem Builder" focused on collaborative innovation and resource alignment.