In Takehara City, Hiroshima Prefecture, a new initiative called 'TakeharaDX' has been launched to create a local testing ground for startups. Despite being a challenging environment for new ventures, the program aims to address local issues by fostering collaboration between startups from metropolitan areas and local businesses. The first batch of six participating companies spans various sectors from tourism to manufacturing.

The initiative traces its roots to Samurai Incubate, an independent venture capital firm based in Tokyo, which established a hub in Takehara's historical district in 2021 to educate technical college students in entrepreneurship.

Although Takehara is a small city with a population of approximately 23,000, it boasts a preserved district that maintains its Edo-era charm, and is designated an "Important Traditional Building Preservation District" by Japan’s Agency for Cultural Affairs. Given the city’s potential as a tourist destination, three of the six companies in the inaugural program are tourism-related.

The program serves as a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to test and develop products or services that can solve local challenges while benefiting from the city's rich historical and cultural backdrop.

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Source : https://www.nikkei.com/article/DGXZQOCC224BK0S3A820C2000000/

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