Tokyo fintech business camp calls for start-ups
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government (TMG) is on the lookout for fintech start-ups to join its latest accelerator programme.
Since last year, the “Accelerator Programme – FinTech Business Camp Tokyo” has been held by TMG with the goal of inviting foreign start-ups to come to Tokyo and “deepen their knowledge of both Japan’s unique market and the various needs of companies in the capital city”.
TMG adds that by providing Tokyo-based companies the opportunity to familiarise themselves with technologies possessed by foreign companies, “the programme aims to cultivate business matching and attract foreign companies to Tokyo”.
Last year, applications were received from 52 companies across 16 countries. Through a review process, a total of eight companies were selected for the programme. Those firms included digital banking provider Moneythor and Clare.ai – a white-label chatbot for banks.
This year, TMG is open to the next round of applicants in its quest to be an “unrivalled global financial city”.
But note that “selected foreign companies will need to pay for their own airfares, accommodation, transport, and meals”.
Start-ups will get the usual stuff that you all know by now – mentoring, business meetings, business matching etc.
Applications close 13 July 2018. You can apply here.
Participants will be announced on 17 August, and the introductory seminar will begin in early October, followed by meetings and compilations of business plans. The pitch event is set for the end of November.
The Camp Office says it provides support until the end of March 2019, with the Business Development Centre Tokyo taking over from April 2019 for those companies moving forward with their Tokyo business expansion plans.
Incidentally, last year, TMG turned to Accenture to support recruiting companies in Japan find the right stuff from abroad.
