With a rapidly growing startup scene driven by collaborations between
established corporations and startups, Japan's entrepreneurs are now
seeking to solve the most complex social, economic and environmental
challenges. Home to the world's third largest economy and a
sophisticated market, Japan has become a launchpad for startups.
According to a Nikkei Asian Review report, startup investment rose 150
percent between 2013 and 2017. Additionally, the country boasts a
growing population of tech executives, students, and entrepreneurs
intent on helping Japan compete with the likes of Silicon Valley and
China. In 2019, StartupBlink ranked Tokyo as the 14th best startup
ecosystem in the world. With a long history of industrial, cultural and
academic assets, Kyoto has steadily increased its support for new
entrepreneurs. Meanwhile, Fukuoka's growing economy, reasonable cost of
living, and high rate of new business creation - the highest of any
Japanese city - have helped put it on the map. There's no doubt that
Japan's startup scenes are shifting the culture's traditional views on
entrepreneurship. Startup Guide Japan, our second country book, takes a
detailed look at the startups, founders, programs, investors and schools
which are tackling important issues related to sustainability and social
impact. The guidebook also provides advice, in-depth interviews with key
figures and valuable resources to help you navigate the country's
startup ecosystems.
