#Japan #Tokyo #Social Business #Tokyo Startup #HASUNA

Launching a New Initiative for Startups

In a bid to improve the business startup rate in Tokyo, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and the Tokyo Small and Medium Enterprise Support Center have recently unveiled a new support platform designed to aid early-stage entrepreneurs. This initiative, known as the "Practical Lab", will be hosted at the TOKYO Startup Station's third floor, Advance Port. The platform aims to provide practical tools and know-how to resolve various business challenges including sales and marketing strategies.

To inaugurate this new program, a four-part pre-event series will commence on June 29, 2023, offering invaluable insights for participants. The pre-event series will consist of workshops focusing on issues such as market entry strategies, fundraising, and organizational development.

Details of the Pre-Event Series

The first session of the pre-event series is titled "Why Can't Social Enterprises Sustain? - The Entrepreneur's True Thoughts on Balancing Ideals with Profitability". It will take place on June 29 from 14:00 to 16:20 at the TOKYO Startup Station, Advance Port. This hybrid event allows 20 participants to attend in person, chosen by lottery, while an additional 150 spots are available for online participation on a first-come, first-served basis. Interested individuals can register through the following URLs:

• - In-person registration
• - Online registration

Event Outline

1. Keynote Seminar (30 minutes)
The seminar will provide deep insights into fostering sustainable growth for social businesses, sharing methods and real-life examples from the speaker's wealth of experience.
Speaker: Nakako Shiraki
- Founder of HASUNA, a pioneer of ethical brands in Japan. Shiraki, after graduating from University College London, founded HASUNA in 2009. She has collaborated with artisans and mine workers from approximately 10 countries to ensure traceability in jewelry sourcing. Her endeavors include consulting and lectures on SDGs, ESG, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, where she has received multiple accolades including the Nikkei Woman of the Year award in 2011.

2. Talk Session (40 minutes)/Q&A (20 minutes)
This segment will feature a discussion between the speaker and a community manager, exploring the seminar's themes and practical knowledge to ensure the sustainability of socially-oriented businesses.

3. Networking Session (40 minutes) (In-person only)
This dedicated time will allow participants to engage with each other and the speaker, offering a platform for inquiries and discussions.

Following the first pre-event, sessions two through four will be scheduled from July to September, focusing on tools and methods that can enhance business profitability.

Overview of the Practical Lab Support Platform

The Practical Lab aims to deliver on-demand video content specifically tailored for entrepreneurs in their initial stages, addressing fundamental business challenges such as market entry and fundraising. Additionally, it will facilitate workshops to help participants solidify their understanding and build networks within their community.

Support Services Include:

1. On-demand video distribution (20 videos annually)
2. Workshop networking events (60 events annually)

Target Audience

This initiative is designed for small business owners in the Tokyo area who have been in operation for less than ten years. The program is expected to kick off around July.

The overall goal aligns with the "2050 Tokyo Strategy", specifically focusing on fostering a field where startups can blossom and thrive.

For further inquiries, please contact:

• - Tokyo Metropolitan Government, Bureau of Industrial and Labor Affairs, Start-up Support Division: 03-5320-4763
• - Tokyo Small and Medium Enterprise Support Center, Business Strategy Division: 03-5220-2000

This initiative represents a significant step in providing resources and support for budding entrepreneurs, illustrating Tokyo's commitment to nurturing its startup ecosystem.