IMPACT STARTUP SUMMIT 2025: Uniting for Sustainable Future Solutions

Recap of IMPACT STARTUP SUMMIT 2025

The IMPACT STARTUP SUMMIT 2025, organized by the Impact Startup Association (ISA), took place on October 14, 2025. The event was designed to connect various stakeholders aiming to address social challenges while promoting sustainable growth. With over 1,100 participants, the summit successfully filled the venue, highlighting its significance and appeal.

A standout feature of the event was a special keynote address from Sanae Takaichi, the Prime Minister during the event, who shared insights on the importance and future of impact startups. Esteemed leaders from various sectors also took the stage, including Kazuto Ataka, Ken Shibusawa, and Yutaka Matsuo, who expressed strong support for initiatives within the impact startup community.

Exhibit of Innovative Solutions

For the first time, an exhibition space was set up, featuring 51 full member companies representing a “social issues marketplace.” This setup resonated perfectly with the year’s theme and attracted significant attention and visitors throughout the event. Former Prime Minister Fumio Kishida also visited the exhibits, showcasing interest in how these businesses are tackling pressing societal challenges.

Announcing IMPACT CHALLENGE OF THE YEAR 2025

A highlight of the summit was the inaugural IMPACT CHALLENGE OF THE YEAR 2025, presented by Forbes JAPAN. The challenge aimed to celebrate the efforts of impact startups in addressing social issues over the past year. Companies nominated from the 250 full members of ISA passionately presented their initiatives and the challenges they faced, while a panel of experts provided constructive feedback.

At the end of the session, after audience voting and final evaluations, three companies were awarded for their outstanding strategies:

1. HAKKI GROUP - Led by CEO Reiji Kobayashi, this company is innovating in the ride-sharing finance sector by leveraging data from platforms like Bolt and Uber to provide credit assessments, notably in Kenya and other markets.
2. Regional Fish Co. - Under the guidance of President Tadanori Umekawa, this firm is accelerating the breeding of aquaculture species using next-generation technologies like genome editing, beneficial for both farmers and consumers.
3. Luup Co. - CEO Daiki Okai shared insights into how Luup offers electric micro-mobility services, providing efficient transportation solutions across various municipalities in Japan, making short-distance travels simpler and more enjoyable.

Engaging Stakeholders and Community

The event also saw a strong presence from notable supporters, including Taizo Son, co-founder of Mistletoe, and other influential figures from business and government. The emcees, Yuri Sasakawa and Naoto Hoshi, guided the discussions and interactions throughout the day, ensuring a dynamic flow of ideas and energy.

In addition to the awards and presentations, there was an emphasis on community building, as ISA continues to recruit new full members. Currently, they have 250 full members and 15 supporting companies from both domestic and international markets, forming a robust ecosystem aimed at positive impact and sustainable development.

As they look forward to furthering these initiatives, the ISA encourages more startups to join the movement. By collaborating with government entities and other stakeholders, the ISA aims to construct an environment conducive to sustaining societal growth.

As a part of their outreach, ISA is also hiring staff to support expanding activities. They seek individuals passionate about fostering innovative solutions to social issues and dedicated to working closely with a variety of stakeholders. Interested candidates can reach out for more information at [email protected].

Future Plans

The next IMPACT STARTUP SUMMIT is already in the planning stages, promising to bring together even more voices and innovations tackling pressing social issues. To learn more or to apply for membership, details are available on their official website: Impact Startup Association.

The IMPACT STARTUP SUMMIT continues to pave the way toward sustainable growth and solutions to societal challenges, bringing stakeholders together for impactful change.