#Japan #Nagoya #Gaiax #Entrepreneur Education

Gaiax Launches Entrepreneur Education Program in Nagoya

Gaiax, a Tokyo-based company, has initiated a collaboration with Nagoya City to deliver an entrepreneurship education program spanning five middle schools in the area. This initiative is a continuation of their partnership with Nagoya City and aims to empower students by providing them with essential entrepreneurial skills and knowledge.

Background of the Initiative

Since 2020, Nagoya City has actively sought to create an environment conducive to nurturing future entrepreneurs. The city has introduced various programs targeting elementary and middle school students, encouraging them to consider entrepreneurship as a viable career choice. With last year’s program showing promise in expanding students' interest in entrepreneurship, the current year marks an expansion from two schools to five, affirming the program's success.

Program Overview

The curriculum implemented over six sessions focuses on cultivating entrepreneurial thinking among students. Each school will tailor the program to address its specific circumstances, ensuring relevance and engagement. The sessions will cover the following key topics:

1. Identifying Problems: Understanding that entrepreneurship involves addressing real-life challenges by introducing quizzes that highlight local businesses.
2. Collecting Information: Assessing whether identified problems have potential business solutions and narrowing focus on viable ideas.
3. Developing Ideas: Encouraging students to innovate by merging existing products with new perspectives and technologies.
4. Effective Communication: Teaching the art of pitching ideas and preparing for presentations.
5. Pitching Experience: Students will present their ideas to local entrepreneurs and receive constructive feedback.

This structured approach is designed to provide students with practical experience in idea generation and problem-solving, vital skills for any entrepreneur.

Participating Schools and Schedule

This year's program includes the following schools and respective schedules:

• - Komakata Junior High School (2nd year students) - December 9, 10, 17
• - Shinkou Junior High School (1st year students) - November 26, December 11, 16
• - Sakuraoka Junior High School (2nd year students) - November 21, 28, December 12
• - Enjou Junior High School (2nd year students) - January 9, 14, 21, 2026
• - Meinan Junior High School (1st year students) - January 30, February 6, 20, 2026

Last Year's Outcomes

The results from last year’s program indicated a significant impact, with 99% of participating students expressing an interest in entrepreneurship, and over 80% wanting to pursue entrepreneurial endeavors in their futures. Feedback from students highlighted the connection between identifying challenges and creating products to address them, affirming the program’s effectiveness.

Personal Testimonials

Past participants shared insightful reflections:

• - "It was eye-opening to see how everyday problems could lead to new products. Understanding that people will pay to solve their problems was enlightening."
• - "Initially, I had little interest in entrepreneurship, but this program made it fun and engaging! I enjoyed it immensely. Thank you!"

Expert Feedback

Local entrepreneurs involved in the program emphasized its significance for youth development. One commented, "Experiencing the process of shaping their ideas is invaluable for students; it not only prepares them for entrepreneurship but also enhances their problem-solving skills that are applicable in any field."

Conclusion

Gaiax's endeavor to implement this entrepreneurship education program not only empowers students with practical skills but also encourages a culture of innovation in Nagoya. By fostering adaptations in educational approaches, Gaiax aims to cultivate the next generation of entrepreneurs ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.

For more information on this initiative or to inquire about the program, please contact [email protected].