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Waypoint Venture Partners: Insights into Hiroshima's Business Landscape

In a significant move towards fostering innovation and collaboration, Waypoint Venture Partners, headquartered in Setagaya, Tokyo, has published its comprehensive survey report titled "External Collaboration in New Business and Existing Business Enhancement (2025 Edition)". This report consolidates valuable insights from 16 companies based in Hiroshima that are engaged in new business initiatives. Conducted in March 2026, the findings shed light on the evolving trends within the regional market, focusing specifically on digital transformation (DX), AI, and open innovation.

Purpose of the Survey

The primary aim of this survey was to assess the current landscape surrounding new business development and the strategies companies in Hiroshima are implementing to strengthen existing operations. The research involved detailed inquiries concerning internal processes, collaboration efforts with startups, and investment trends. Notably, the findings indicate a substantial shift towards digital solutions in response to shrinking traditional markets. Approximately 85% of survey respondents highlighted that their new business efforts were driven by a decrease in market size.

Key Findings

Among the most striking themes emerging from the research is the notable decrease in interest surrounding carbon neutrality and SDGs, which were once focal points for business teams. Instead, a dramatic rise in attention towards digitalization, AI, and generative AI technologies has been observed. This indicates a broader acceptance and adoption of tech-driven solutions within existing and new business frameworks.

Enhancing Existing Business

The findings also reveal a pivot in how companies in Hiroshima approach existing business reinforcement. The emphasis on competing solely on price is dwindling; instead, more companies are focusing on value-added services that are not primarily price-dependent. This evolution reflects a broader trend where organizations seek to differentiate themselves through quality and innovation.

External Collaborations and Partnerships

The survey showcased a growing tendency for firms to seek collaborations with smaller enterprises, startups, and consultancies. Approximately 70% of respondents reported successful partnerships with startups, demonstrating a robust ecosystem of collaboration that fosters innovation in the region. Additionally, the outlook for investments in 2026 appears optimistic, with 70% of companies planning to maintain or slightly increase their investment activities compared to previous years.

Role of Open Innovation

Waypoint Venture Partners recognizes the critical role of open innovation in enhancing regional business dynamics. Their partnership with Nihonkai Lab, a corporation specializing in open innovation strategies, has enabled them to explore avenues for new business creation and goal-setting for startups. Interviews with executives from partner firms reflected the urgency to adapt and integrate innovative practices into their operations to remain competitive in an ever-evolving market landscape.

Future Directions

As a dedicated venture capital firm, Waypoint Venture Partners aims to continue supporting startups and entrepreneurs through targeted investments, particularly in the Tokyo Metropolitan and Chugoku-Shikoku areas. Their ambitious vision is to cultivate a rich ecosystem that maximizes choice and opportunity for businesses, leading to a more promising economic environment.

Call to Action

For stakeholders interested in delving deeper into the findings of this report, the 2025 Survey Report is accessible for download at Waypoint Venture Partners. This report serves as a valuable resource for local enterprises and decision-makers aiming to navigate the complexities of business development and partnership dynamics in today’s marketplace.