Borderless Japan and JICA Launch New Phase of JICA BLUE Academy for Social Entrepreneurs

Borderless Japan and JICA Collaborate for Social Entrepreneurship

In an inspiring initiative aimed at fostering social entrepreneurs, Borderless Japan, headquartered in Fukuoka, has announced the commencement of entries for the third phase of the JICA BLUE Academy, starting December 10, 2025. This program, sanctioned by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), seeks to amplify the impact of experiences and enthusiasm of JICA's overseas volunteers through practical entrepreneurship.

What is JICA BLUE Academy?

The JICA BLUE Academy is a nurturing program designed specifically for social entrepreneurs, set to run over three months from September to November 2025. It serves as a vital platform for social entrepreneurs to explore and develop their business ideas that demonstrate both social and economic viability. In its second phase, 21 aspiring entrepreneurs graduated, equipped with the skills and confidence needed to pursue their careers in social enterprise.

This initiative stems from JICA’s broader mission to expand the career opportunities for its volunteers, allowing them to utilize their experiences to create tangible benefits in society. As part of this objective, the third phase of the program aims to attract former JICA volunteers with overseas experience, allowing them to leverage their insights and training in social entrepreneurship.

Program Highlights

- Eligibility: The program is designed for former JICA volunteers who have returned within the last 20 years, with an interest in developing business plans rooted in both social responsibility and profitability.
- Duration: The program will run for three months, during which participants will engage in mentorship sessions with seasoned entrepreneurs and business experts, gaining insights into practical social business frameworks.
- Follow-Up Support: Upon completion of the program, participants will have opportunities for continued networking and collaboration with fellow alumni.

The third phase builds on the successful methodologies of Borderless Japan, which has expertise in establishing over 50 social business projects across 14 countries. The company prides itself on its ability to blend social impact with economic sustainability, echoing the program's core focus.