Global Entrepreneurship Challenge 2025 (A Chance to Launch Your Venture in Japan)

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Applications are now open for the Global Entrepreneurship Challenge to connect international innovators with Japan’s dynamic business ecosystem.

Backed by the Tokyo Government, they are inviting innovators from around the world to Japan to participate in an entrepreneurial support program. They welcome students, recent graduates, and working professionals in this opportunity to be sponsored to establish your business in Japan.

Through this program, participants will gain the opportunity to launch and scale their ventures in Japan, while accessing local expertise, networks, and resources to drive global growth.

The Global Entrepreneurship Program (#GEC2025) aims to connect international innovators with Japan’s dynamic business ecosystem. Through this program, participants will gain the opportunity to launch and scale their ventures in Japan, while accessing local expertise, networks, and resources to drive global growth.

Global Entrepreneurship Program Categories

Sustainability
- Pioneering solutions for a greener future. From renewable energy to sustainable urban development, they’re seeking innovations that help build an environmentally conscious Japan.
Digital Innovation
- Shaping the future through technology. Bring your breakthrough digital solutions to one of the world’s most tech-savvy markets, from AI and IoT to smart cities.
Education
- Revolutionizing learning for tomorrow. Develop innovative approaches to education for next-generation learning technologies.
Wellbeing
- Enhancing quality of life through innovation. From healthcare technology to mental wellness solutions, create impact in Japan’s growing wellness sector.
Culture
- Where tradition meets innovation. Create solutions that bridge Japanese traditions with cutting-edge technology, enriching cultural experiences for the modern world.
Entertainment
- Crafting tomorrow’s experiences. Innovate in Japan’s dynamic entertainment sector, from gaming and media to immersive experiences and digital art.
Others/Wild Card
- Have something extraordinary that doesn’t fit into the categories above? Surprise them with your unique and groundbreaking innovations.

Benefits

Establish Your Business: They provide guidance and clear path to establish your presence in Japan.
Grow With Mentorship: 1 month online mentorship to accelerate your growth.
Connect with Local Businesses: Network with a community of innovative thinkers and potential collaborators in Tokyo.
Secure travel support to Japan: They provide for the cost of your air fare and hotel stay in Japan.

Eligibility Criteria for Global Entrepreneurship Program

This Challenge is open and offered solely to:

Any individual aged eighteen (18) years and/or with full legal capacity, who (i) is currently enrolled at a post-secondary institution or (ii) has recently graduated from a post-secondary institution less than 2 years before the current academic year, with a student card as verification.
Individual Participant. Individuals aged eighteen (18) years and/or with full legal capacity at the time of registration.
All the documents that may confirm the Participant’s eligibility may be required prior to awarding any prizes (e.g. identity document, registration certificate, student card etc.).
This Challenge is void in countries where it is prohibited or restricted by law.