King Salmon Project Launches Overseas Urban Challenge for Tokyo Startups

WATI editor

May 20, 2024

Tokyo has launched a new program, the "Overseas Urban Challenge Course," as part of the King Salmon Project, inviting proposals from local startups to tackle global urban challenges. This initiative marks the first time Tokyo is supporting overseas pilot projects.

Tokyo aims to become the world’s most startup-friendly city through its "Global Innovation with STARTUPS" initiative, launched in November 2022. The King Salmon Project provides startups with real-world scenarios to foster growth and innovation. This year, the program expands to include international projects, collaborating with the "SusHi Tech Tokyo 2024 City Leaders Program." Startups will have the opportunity to work in Helsinki, Finland, and Nairobi, Kenya.

Key Details

Pitch and Pilot: Startups will travel to Helsinki and Nairobi to present their solutions.

On-Site Implementation: Selected startups will run pilot projects with support from Deloitte Tohmatsu Consulting and local authorities.

Financial Support: Tokyo will cover travel and project costs (up to a limit).

Program Steps

1)Travel and Pitch: Shortlisted startups will travel to the host cities to pitch their ideas.

2)Preparation: One startup per city will spend two months preparing for the pilot project.

3)Implementation: The pilot projects will run for about three months on-site.

4)Results Presentation: Startups will present the outcomes of their projects.

Call for Proposals

Cities and Themes:

1) Helsinki: Aims to be carbon neutral by 2030, focusing on reducing emissions from buildings.

2) Nairobi: Faces frequent floods due to climate change, needing better monitoring and public awareness.

Timeline:

Application Period: May 20 - June 14, 2024

Initial Screening: July 2024

Final Screening and Travel:

Helsinki: August 26-30, 2024

Nairobi: August 5-9, 2024

Register Link: https://kingsalmon.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/overseas/