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Startup Incubation Center

Projects

Startup Incubation Center

Name

Tsuyoshi Tohyama
Tohoku University Executive Vice President (for Industry – University Collaboration)
General Director, Startup Incubation Center

Overview

At the Startup Incubation Center in Tohoku University, we are dedicated to promoting the commercialization and social implementation of the university’s research outcomes. This mission is pursued through initiatives such as Tohoku University’s gap fund—the Business Incubation Program (BIP)—as well as the Michinoku GAP Fund, which is jointly operated in collaboration with partner universities and institutions in the Tohoku and Niigata regions. By supporting the development of business models and business plans, we actively foster the creation and growth of startups originating from Tohoku University.

To cultivate an entrepreneurial culture within Tohoku University, we offer a diverse array of programs, including entrepreneurship development programs for both students and researchers. In addition, we promote the formation of a vibrant startup community by operating the Startup Garage as a central hub for aspiring entrepreneurs, experienced founders, and supporters, while also organizing seminars and events related to startup creation and growth.

Furthermore, we engage in a broad range of initiatives, including the development of a regional startup ecosystem through collaboration among industry, academia, government, and financial institutions. We are also strengthening international partnerships with leading overseas universities to facilitate the emergence of globally competitive startups.

Objectives

Our primary objective is to create startups that utilize research outcomes originating from Tohoku University. To achieve this, we promote the practical application of research through research and development activities, including university-industry collaborations. We also support world-class, original R&D initiatives and aim to translate their results into the creation of new industries. Additional objectives include fostering entrepreneurship, cultivating a regional startup ecosystem, and promoting collaborations at both domestic and international levels.

Anticipated Impact

Commercialization and social implementation of research outcomes
Creation and development of startups originating from Tohoku University
Fostering of entrepreneurship
Formation of a startup ecosystem

Achievements

Through Tohoku University’s integrated and seamless startup support system, more than 2,000 students and researchers participate in entrepreneurship development programs annually. As of the most recent count, there are 199 startups originating from Tohoku University.

Keywords

Venture company, startup, research commercialization, new industry creation, equity investment program, entrepreneurship, startup ecosystem, international university collaboration