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Tokyo's New Startup Initiative

In November 2022, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government unveiled its startup strategy titled 'Global Innovation with STARTUPS'. This initiative aims to foster collaboration with startups to address social and administrative challenges faced by the city. As part of this strategy, starting from the fiscal year 2023, the government is launching a program to solicit business proposals from startups with innovative technologies and ideas to aid various urban challenges. This article details the framework of this program and how startups can participate.

Overview of the Program

The 'Startup Business Proposal System' invites young companies committed to solving social issues to submit proposals utilizing their technologies and products. The process includes in-depth discussions with city officials to thoroughly understand the challenges, followed by practical trials of the proposals to support their development. This method not only facilitates innovative solutions but also ensures that the proposals are closely aligned with the needs of the city's administration.

Steps to Introduce Proposals

The introduction of proposals involves several sequential steps where startups will engage with government representatives to refine and implement their solutions. This collaborative approach creates a feedback loop, making it possible for startups to improve their offerings while directly addressing real-world challenges faced by Tokyo.

Eligibility for Proposal Submission

Startups interested in participating must be legally registered entities established within the past ten years. This stipulation assures that the government takes fresh ideas from emerging companies seriously, providing them with a platform to demonstrate their potential impact on urban challenges.

Areas of Proposal Focus

1. Open Proposal Type

The program welcomes open proposals that contribute to identifying and resolving issues in urban governance. This is an excellent opportunity for startups with creative ideas to present their solutions without being confined to predefined constraints.

2. Themed Proposal Type

In addition to open proposals, there are specific themes established by the government for targeted solutions:

• - Support for marriage, pregnancy, childbirth, and child-rearing.
• - Development of globally competitive human resources.
• - Realization of a long-lived society.
• - Promotion of women's active participation.
• - Advancing barrier-free environments.
• - Creation of startups and innovations.
• - Establishing appealing cityscapes.
• - Disaster prevention measures.
• - Realizing a carbon-neutral society.
• - Promoting digital transformation in society.

These focused themes allow startups to channel their innovations into crucial areas, making significant impacts where they are most needed.

Proposal Submission Process and Details

Interested startups can submit their proposals using the online application form available on the official government website. However, proposals for the current fiscal year should be submitted by January 31, 2024. Proposals submitted after this date will only be accepted if budget provisions for the next fiscal year are confirmed, thus ensuring a structured approach to funding and implementation.

Application Form Link

For more details on the application process and to access the proposal form, click here: Application Form

You can find further details about the Startup Strategy on the Tokyo Metropolitan Government’s website: Startup Strategy Promotion Headquarters

Conclusion

This initiative aligns with the ongoing efforts to promote the '2050 Tokyo Strategy', aiming to create a nurturing environment for startups to grow and thrive. By encouraging innovation and collaboration, Tokyo is setting the stage for a sustainable urban future where startups are vital players in shaping city governance.