NEC's 2026 Social Entrepreneurship Program Welcomes New Cohorts

New Cohorts Selected for NEC's 2026 Social Entrepreneurship Program

On September 3, 2026, NEC Corporation announced the selection of three organizations as participants in the 2026 cohort (25th period) of its renowned Social Entrepreneurship Program. Launched in cooperation with the NPO ETIC in 2002, this pioneering initiative is designed to support young entrepreneurs addressing various social issues. Throughout its history, the program has nurtured social entrepreneurs focused on achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and tackling innovative social challenges, generating significant social impact.

The theme for the 2026 program aligns with NEC's commitment to creating societal values centered on safety, fairness, efficiency, and a sustainable future where everyone can realize their full humanity. The selected organizations include:

1. Tayori Co., Ltd. - This organization focuses on altering the behavior of individuals who haven't initiated end-of-life planning by providing services rooted in love and care for their cherished ones. Their key offering, Tayorie, uses AI technology to help users document memories, gratitude, and vital information for the future via a user-friendly platform on LINE, thereby reframing end-of-life planning as an extension of cultivating relationships.
- More about Tayori

2. Nurse X Co., Ltd. - Founded by a seasoned nurse with approximately ten years of experience across various medical settings, Nurse X aims to support fellow nurses by providing consultation and career guidance. Their flagship product, My Puri, is an AI-powered assistant that helps nurses develop from their daily experiences into valuable learning opportunities, creating an environment conducive to consultation and growth.
- More about Nurse X

3. LoCoBridge - A nonprofit organization dedicated to bridging creativity gaps in underprivileged areas, LoCoBridge assists communities in creating spaces for children to engage in digital technology and creative activities. They provide comprehensive support to local organizations setting up creative hubs, ensuring children can freely pursue their interests and aspirations.
- More about LoCoBridge

In addition to these three organizations, NEC has established the NEC Social Entrepreneur Support Team within its volunteer community, aimed at fostering dialogue and co-creation opportunities between employees and social entrepreneurs. This new initiative seeks to enhance understanding and empathy around social issues and drive change through collaborative efforts.

Participating organizations will benefit from mentorship over the program's six-month duration, refining their business plans and strategies through iterative hypothesis testing and practical application.

NEC continues to pursue its mission of cultivating the next generation of entrepreneurs who are committed to resolving social challenges and creating new societal values. By fostering dialogue and collaboration with social entrepreneurs, NEC aims to deepen its employees' awareness of societal issues and contribute to the creation of greater social value.

Overview of the 2026 NEC Social Entrepreneur Cohort

1. Organization: Tayori Co., Ltd.
Representative: Misaki Naobayashi
Business Focus: Addressing the societal issue surrounding the need for end-of-life planning by offering a seamless service that allows individuals to reflect on their important relationships and memories, transforming the conversation around end-of-life into one of connection and care.

2. Organization: Nurse X Co., Ltd.
Representative: Yoshisuke Nakamichi
Business Focus: Supporting nurses by providing AI-enhanced platforms for career development and peer consultation, ensuring a nurturing environment for professional growth.

3. Organization: LoCoBridge
Representative: Yuta Suehiro
Business Focus: Aiming to eliminate the regional disparities in access to creative technology and activities for youth in remote areas, by establishing community creative hubs.

Through its commitment to innovation and impact, NEC continues to play a vital role in shaping the landscape of social entrepreneurship in Japan.