North Kanto's Innovation Meets Deliciousness: Joint Demo Day 2025

North Kanto Connected! Kagyō Innovation 2025 × Ushiku Gourmet 2025 Joint Presentation Event

Introduction

The world of local innovation is coming alive in Shibuya! On December 13, 2025, the North Kanto Connected! Kagyō Innovation 2025 and Ushiku Gourmet 2025 will hold a joint Demo Day, where entrepreneurs and innovators from three northern Kanto prefectures (Ibaraki, Tochigi, and Gunma) will showcase their exciting developments.

Kagyō Innovation 2025

Celebrating its seventh year, the Kagyō Innovation initiative highlights the efforts of successors from family businesses who narrate their visions for the future using their own voices. Originally starting in Ibaraki, this initiative has expanded to Tochigi and Gunma, cultivating a thriving community that encourages challenges and collective success among local innovators. Each entrepreneur is on a quest to infuse their family businesses with fresh ideas and perspectives, aligning their goals with community aspirations.

Ushiku Gourmet 2025

Meanwhile, Ushiku Gourmet 2025 focuses on developing unique products rooted deeply in the local culture. Three leaders from long-established businesses have collaborated with various stakeholders, including the newly emerging DMO entity (Destination Management Organization), to create a collective culinary vision. Their initiatives highlight the potential of local gastronomy and reflect a commitment to sustainable community development.

The Intersection of Ideas

As both programs converge in Shibuya, participants will reveal the significance of joining forces. Often, local players bear the weight of community transformation alone. This joint presentation serves as a beacon of collaboration, bringing together diverse stakeholders, from students and local businesses to administration and corporations. Attendees are invited to contribute ideas in an environment where creativity meets practical implementation.

Demo Day Highlights

During the Demo Day, six groups of Kagyō innovators will showcase their pitches:
1. Tanaka Pear Orchard (Ibaraki) - Expanding pear farming in Yachiyo.
2. Shiinaringo Orchard (Ibaraki) - Enhancing product offerings with efficient apple processing and workforce development.
3. Ai Hyakusho Aimitsu (Tochigi) - Establishing a dye workshop for artisans and promoting dye exports.
4. Abe Pear Orchard (Tochigi) - Pioneering new employment models in agriculture through a pear-strawberry harvest-sharing initiative.
5. Tosaka Horticulture (Gunma) - Developing food-scented roses and advocating for closer plant integration into daily life.
6. Komuro Farm (Gunma) - Solidifying garlic production for regional sustainability.

In addition, three gourmet leaders from Ushiku will present as well:
1. Yobarekka Design Works - Introducing a unique pancake recipe inspired by local flavors.
2. Iseya - Revitalizing traditional Wagashi (Japanese sweets) for all age groups.
3. Matsuzōya - Collaborating with citizens to create innovative local beverages.

Keynote Speaker

The event will feature a special keynote from Kato Takahiro, Executive Director of Meiri Shurui Co., Ltd., who has redefined the family business landscape with innovative strategies, especially during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic.

Conclusion

Join us as we dive into the heart of regional innovation at the Demo Day 2025 in Shibuya. This is not just a presentation; it's a celebration of the power of community, creativity, and collaboration that will shape the future of North Kanto. Access is free but registration is required. Explore the ideas that will define tomorrow!