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Fukuoka Startup Acceleration Program ISSIN 2026

CIC Catalyst APAC, a startup growth support organization headquartered in Toranomon, Tokyo, recently announced the startups participating in the Fukuoka Startup Acceleration Program ISSIN 2026. This initiative is in collaboration with the Global Connect Fukuoka Network, which operates under the Fukuoka Prefecture Startup Promotion Division.

The 2026 program has officially selected four startups, two of which are part of the accelerated program targeting international expansion. The primary goal of this program is to support startups facing challenges in overseas market entry, marketing strategies, and fundraising. By providing accompanying assistance, the program aims to facilitate funding opportunities from venture capitalists (VCs) and investors, ultimately promoting further growth and success.

Main Support Components

The ISSIN 2026 program offers various forms of assistance to participating startups, including:
1. Business Plan Refinement Support: Helping startups enhance and perfect their business plans.
2. Fundraising Preparation: Providing opportunities for meetings with VCs along with necessary preparation, including goal setting.
3. Input Seminars: Hosting seminars for knowledge sharing and skill enhancement.
4. Support for International Expansion: Guiding startups in strategies to enter global markets.
5. Networking Opportunities: Encouraging connections among participants to foster collaboration and support.
For more details on the support content, please visit CIC Fukuoka ISSIN.

Participating Startups (in alphabetical order)

1. ineRobo Inc.
Website: inerobo.jp
ineRobo focuses on developing and providing cutting-edge robotic solutions tailored for small-scale farmers. The company aims to solidify its presence in the rice cultivation industry in Fukuoka and Kyushu.

2. ORARE Inc.
Website: orarekk.com
ORARE is a skincare manufacturer specializing in 100% natural ingredients with its own production facility. The company plans to strengthen its market presence both domestically and internationally through this program while maintaining its commitment to sustainability by using regional resources in its OEM operations.

3. Coastal Link Inc. (Targeted for International Growth Acceleration)
Website: coastal.link
Coastal Link provides solutions aimed at improving safety and efficiency in maritime transportation by connecting ports, vessels, and coastal authorities. During the program, the company will refine its business strategies for international expansion and work on establishing local partnerships to secure funding.

4. Next Infrastructure Inc. (Targeted for International Growth Acceleration)
Website: nextinfra.jp
Next Infrastructure utilizes LiDAR and edge AI technologies to visualize and analyze mixed traffic, aiming to achieve safer and more efficient transportation environments. The company is focusing on expanding into ASEAN markets, particularly Thailand and Vietnam, looking to promote Fukuoka-based traffic digital transformation solutions globally.

Organizers and Operations

The program is co-organized by the Global Connect Fukuoka Network, which aims to support funding acquisition and market expansion for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through an integrated approach. The chairman of this network is Masayoshi Kan, a special advisor at Kyushu Electric Power.

Meanwhile, CIC Catalyst APAC specializes in innovation consulting tailored for startups. The organization collaborates with various entities, including businesses, investors, government bodies, and university research institutions, to aid in the development and scaling of startups with cutting-edge technologies. To date, it has provided over 100 programs globally, assisting over 700 startups in their business growth and international expansion efforts.

The total funding raised by these startups through CIC Catalyst initiatives has reached approximately $17 billion, indicating significant impact in nurturing startup ecosystems worldwide.

Inquiry Contact for the Program

For inquiries related to the 2026 Fukuoka Startup Acceleration Program ISSIN, please contact:
CIC Catalyst APAC
Fukuoka Prefecture ISSIN Program Office: [email protected]