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Social Entrepreneurs Initiative Announces 2026 Participants

The Social Entrepreneurs Initiative, run by ETIC. (located in Shibuya, Tokyo), is celebrating its 25th edition this year. Since its inception in 2002, this initiative has supported 189 entrepreneurs at the forefront of addressing complex societal issues that cannot be tackled by a single sector alone. After a rigorous selection process, 24 organizations have been chosen to participate in the Startup and Impact Courses for the 2026 academic year.

The Context of Social Entrepreneurship

As society faces challenges like population decline, child poverty, mental health issues, and isolation, the traditional welfare systems and government structures are struggling to keep pace. It is within this context that the role of social entrepreneurs, who create businesses rooted in the voices of affected individuals, is increasingly vital. The Social Entrepreneurs Initiative aims to empower these entrepreneurs and foster transformative change in society.

Overview of the Courses

Launched in collaboration with NEC in 2002, the Social Entrepreneurs Initiative is designed to support startups at the forefront of social change. Starting in 2025, the program underwent a significant update, introducing a bifurcated support system of two courses: the Startup Course for early-stage entrepreneurs and the Impact Course for those looking to expand their social impact.

Startup Course

The 2026 Startup Course comprises 12 selected organizations whose leaders are at varying stages of launching their businesses. The focus areas for these entrepreneurs include parenting, education, youth support, healthcare, elder care, cultural preservation, and international cooperation. Each organization aims to address unique social challenges, ranging from developing support systems for creative local spaces to providing educational tools for healthcare professionals.

Impact Course

In contrast, the Impact Course targets 12 organizations aiming to enhance their social impact through strategic developments. These entrepreneurs are engaged in critical areas such as childcare, gender equality, and support for individuals with disabilities and chronic illnesses. The goal is for these businesses to reevaluate their vision and growth strategies to create robust management teams.

Program Structure

Participants in both courses will engage in a comprehensive seven-month program filled with mentoring from experienced entrepreneurs and practical applications in the field. This program is designed not only to assist in business development but also to cultivate unwavering mission-driven leaders who can proactively tackle social issues.

Selected Entrepreneurs Overview

Here’s a snapshot of the organizations chosen to join the 2026 courses:

• - Startup Course includes entrepreneurs like Yuuta Suehiro from LoCoBridge, who focuses on fostering creative local environments, and Yoshizumi Nakadate from NurseX, offering support programs for new nurses.
• - Impact Course includes impactful leaders like Maiko Ishikawa from Kids Code Club, which aims to unlock children's potential through technology, and Toshiko Oka from Gender Equality Labota, who focuses on fostering gender equality initiatives within communities.

Upcoming Program Schedule

The program will feature key events such as kick-off sessions, review meetings, and a final demonstration day. These milestones will serve as opportunities for entrepreneurs to showcase their businesses’ progress and refine their impact.

About ETIC.

ETIC., which stands for ‘Empower the Next Generation of Innovators,’ has been at the forefront of fostering social entrepreneurs since its inception in 1993. Recognized as an NPO since 2000, ETIC. has been instrumental in cultivating entrepreneurial talent, facilitating collaborations between various sectors, and supporting innovative projects aimed at social improvement. With around 19,000 individuals participating in its initiatives, ETIC. boasts a track record of approximately 2,200 entrepreneurs who have launched successful ventures.

By nurturing a diverse ecosystem that promotes entrepreneurship in conjunction with corporate partners and governmental agencies, ETIC. continues to pave the way for impactful social change. For further details, visit the official website of the Social Entrepreneurs Initiative here.