GLOBIS School's Investment in Biosono: A Step Towards Solving Caregiver Challenges

GLOBIS Graduate School's Game-Changing Investment

In an exciting development towards solving pressing challenges in the caregiving sector, GLOBIS Graduate School has announced its investment in Biosono Inc. This investment marks the first instance of the awarding of the KIBOW Prize through the G-CHALLENGE 2024, a business competition aimed at fostering entrepreneurship among current and former students of the GLOBIS Graduate School.

Biosono Inc. utilizes acoustic sensing and AI technology to detect the presence of food residue during meals, establishing a critical safety measure in caregiving environments. This technology aims to address the serious issue of aspiration pneumonia, a common health risk among the elderly, especially in Japan's aging society. The investment underscores GLOBIS's commitment to promoting entrepreneurial initiatives that exhibit significant social impact alongside economic viability.

The G-CHALLENGE 2024

The G-CHALLENGE serves as a platform for GLOBIS students and alumni to present innovative business plans and compete for startup funding. With a focus on the marketability, competitive edge, feasibility, profitability, and alignment with GLOBIS's educational philosophy, the challenge seeks to nurture future leaders who can reinvent their industries.

This year marks the 12th iteration of the G-CHALLENGE. A total of 33 teams participated, showcasing projects aimed at responding to the unique challenges of society. The compelling concept presented by Biosono directly addresses pivotal caregiving issues, shining a light on the importance of innovative solutions in healthcare.

Biosono: Addressing Critical Care Issues

Biosono's flagship product, 'Shokutuu,' offers caregivers a means of detecting leftover food in a person's throat using advanced AI technology. This innovation is particularly vital as residual food can lead to choking and respiratory complications, which are significant concerns in caregiving settings. The reduction of such risks through early detection can be a game-changer in improving the safety and quality of care for the elderly.

Moreover, given that the economic impact stemming from aspiration-related health costs could reach hundreds of billions of yen annually, the relevance of Biosono's solution cannot be overstated. As Japan continues to navigate challenges posed by its aging population, Biosono is strategically positioned to make a positive impact on healthcare delivery, consequently influencing economic savings in the process.

Voices from Leadership

Yosuke Inoue, head judge of the G-CHALLENGE 2024, emphasized the need for innovative leaders in today's business landscape, particularly in Japan's unique demographic context. Inoue believes that technology-driven initiatives, like those from Biosono, are critical in crafting solutions that serve society while ensuring a sustainable business model.

Kan Tooyama, CEO of Biosono and a GLOBIS alumnus, articulated the pressing necessity for utilizing the vital signs and biological data of elderly individuals in developing comprehensive healthcare solutions. He noted that transforming societal weaknesses into strengths is integral for addressing the implications of Japan's aging population. With an international perspective, Tooyama aims to leverage Biosono’s technology while preparing for the future challenges of an increasingly aging global population.

GLOBIS’s Ecosystem for Entrepreneurs

GLOBIS continues to foster an environment that supports entrepreneurship through various initiatives, including incubation, mentorship, and community-building among students and alumni. Through programs such as ‘G-INCUBATE,’ 'G-GROWTH,' and ‘G-STARTUP,’ the institution is dedicated to empowering its community members to bring viable business concepts to fruition.

The investment in Biosono not only reflects GLOBIS's commitment to social impact but also establishes a framework for future collaboration and innovation in the Elderly Care sector. As organizations like GLOBIS champion audacious initiatives, the prospects for progressive solutions bear promise for a more resilient and sustainable future in caregiving.

In closing, the initial investment in Biosono is indeed a crucial milestone that signals the beginning of transformative efforts aimed at improving the caregiving experience through innovative technologies and entrepreneurial spirit.