#Japan #Tokyo #EY Strategy #Innovation Contest #Student Ideas

Introduction

EY Strategy and Consulting (EYSC), located in Chiyoda, Tokyo, has officially opened entries for its fourth Student Rule-Making Idea Contest. This annual contest invites students to propose ideas that can instigate positive social change through innovative rule formation based on their unique insights.

Purpose of the Contest

The contest aligns with EYSC's overarching purpose: "Building a better working world." With this initiative, EYSC encourages students to use their knowledge and creativity to contribute significantly to society. By fostering constructive dialogues and capturing the perspectives of the youth, EYSC hopes to facilitate revitalization in Japan and initiate proper policy reform.

Contest Details

This marks the fourth iteration of the contest, which has consistently attracted diverse proposals from student organizations across the country. The ideas submitted reflect contemporary values and social awareness typical of the student demographic, aiming to offer fresh viewpoints on social problems and contribute to policy formation, which is vital for progress.

Expectations for Participants

The contest encourages students to think freely and forwardly, anticipating that their contributions will lead to the establishment of new societal norms. Participants will be supported by EYSC professionals who will provide feedback after the initial evaluation phase. The winning group will be given the opportunity to present their ideas to government representatives, including members of the Diet.

Comments from EY Leadership

Satoshi Kondo, President of EYSC, expressed excitement about the innovative insights students will bring this year: "I am looking forward to seeing fresh ideas reflecting the changing times. Last year, we witnessed remarkable proposals advocating young people's autonomy and envisioning transformative roles for AI as co-creation partners. We continue our commitment to supporting young people's constructive opinions, which have the potential to evolve beyond discussion into real social and institutional changes."

Toshifumi Kokubun, Strategic Impact Partner at EYSC, echoed similar sentiments regarding continuity in participation: "For this fourth contest, I anticipate seeing cases where previous participants reconnect, challenge themselves, or refine their ideas for another try. Some proposals from past winners were featured in the media, slowly beginning to create societal impacts. We are committed to robustly supporting a movement where youth actively voice their opinions and innovate new rules. I eagerly await your courageous suggestions."

Submission Guidelines

Theme: Proposals that embody youthful perspectives in formulating rules for promoting a better working world.

Timeline:

• - Entry Period: July 1, 2026 – October 2, 2026
• - Submission of Presentation Materials: July 1, 2026 – October 16, 2026
• - Announcement of Preliminary Results: After November 11, 2026
• - Final Presentation: December 10, 2026, at EYSC's Tokyo office

Application Method:
Interested students can apply via a dedicated entry form, providing required information along with a photo of their student ID, available at EY Contest Entry.

Eligibility Criteria:

• - Teams of three or more university or graduate students affiliated with a Japanese university or graduate school (as of July 2026).
• - At least one team member must be able to attend the final presentation in person.

Evaluation Criteria

Judging will focus on:
1. Understanding of rule-making: Proposed ideas need to aim at generating new norms and should not merely suggest business models.
2. Perspective: How well the ideas integrate youthful viewpoints.
3. Potential for impact: The anticipated societal change and its scale.
4. Global relevance: Ideas should have the potential to gain support and spread not only in Japan but worldwide.

Awards

• - Cash Prizes: ¥1.2 million for the winner, ¥600,000 for the runner-up, and ¥300,000 for third place.
• - Opportunities: The winning team will present to political youth wings and related committees, with international proposals having a chance to present to overseas policy think tanks.

Important Considerations

• - Copyright for ideas remains with the creators; however, participants agree to allow EY’s use of submissions for promotional activities.
• - Media exposure may occur for winning ideas subject to the creators' consent.

Contact Information

For inquiries, reach out to: EY Rule-Making Idea Contest Office
Email: [email protected]

About EY

As part of a global network, EY is dedicated to generating value for clients, its members, society, and the planet while establishing trust in capital markets. By leveraging data, AI, and advanced technologies, EY supports clients in effectively shaping the future, leading to solutions for immediate challenges. The company operates across various sectors, providing services in assurance, consulting, tax, strategy, and transactions globally.

All in to shape the future with confidence.

To learn more about EY’s consulting services and its commitment to societal betterment, visit EY Consulting.