Deadline: November 15, 2025
The Tokyo Global Innovation Challenge 2025 is now open for applications! This exciting global platform invites innovative student teams from universities in Japan and around the world to showcase transformative business ideas that can address real-world challenges. The challenge aims to empower the next generation of entrepreneurs by fostering creativity, collaboration, and cross-cultural innovation.
About the Tokyo Global Innovation Challenge 2025
The Tokyo Global Innovation Challenge 2025 is a prestigious student-led competition designed to inspire future innovators to create impactful business solutions. Hosted in Tokyo, Japan, the competition offers a unique opportunity for young minds to present their entrepreneurial vision to a global audience.
Participants will work in diverse teams to develop and pitch business ideas that demonstrate originality, feasibility, and market potential. The contest is conducted entirely in English, providing a global platform for students to connect, collaborate, and gain international exposure.
Eligibility
To qualify for the Tokyo Global Innovation Challenge 2025, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Teams must consist of 3 to 6 members who are undergraduate or graduate students, including international students, from universities in Japan or abroad.
- Teams can be composed of Japanese-only, international-only, or mixed Japanese and international members.
- The business idea must be student-led. Proposals originating from faculty-led research or incorporated companies are not eligible.
- All participants must be able to present their pitch in English, as the competition and symposium will be conducted entirely in English.
Evaluation Criteria
Entries will be assessed based on the following key criteria:
- Passion & Leadership – Demonstration of commitment, teamwork, and strong leadership.
- Originality – Novelty and creativity of the proposed idea.
- Market Competitiveness – Clear understanding of market demand and competitive advantage.
- Growth Potential – Potential for expansion and scalability both domestically and internationally.
- Profitability – Soundness of the business model and revenue-generation plan.
- Feasibility – Practicality and evidence of market acceptance for the proposed concept.
Benefits and Awards
The Tokyo Global Innovation Challenge 2025 offers participants not only international exposure but also substantial recognition and rewards:
- The winning team will receive a grand prize of ¥1,000,000.
- Additional awards and recognition will be granted to finalist teams.
- Participants will gain valuable mentorship, networking opportunities, and feedback from seasoned entrepreneurs, investors, and business leaders.
Application Requirements
Applicants are required to submit the following:
- A pitch video of up to 5 minutes showcasing their business idea.
- The video should be uploaded to a cloud storage platform (e.g., Google Drive) with a shareable link included in the application form.
- All submissions must meet the eligibility and evaluation requirements to be considered.
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 15 November 2025
Early preparation is strongly encouraged to ensure that teams have adequate time to polish their pitch and video presentation.
How to Apply
Eligible teams can apply online by completing the official application form and submitting their 5-minute pitch video link before the deadline.
Selection Process
The selection process will involve multiple stages, including initial screening of video submissions, evaluation by expert judges, and live pitching at the final event in Tokyo. Teams that demonstrate originality, strong leadership, and viable business models will advance to the finals, where they will present their ideas to an international judging panel.
Additional Information
Participants should ensure their video submissions are clear, concise, and of high quality. The Tokyo Global Innovation Challenge 2025 is not only a competition but a transformative experience that helps students refine their entrepreneurial vision, strengthen cross-border collaboration, and prepare for the global market.
Host Organisation
The Tokyo Global Innovation Challenge 2025 is hosted by leading innovation partners in Tokyo, Japan, who are committed to supporting the next generation of global entrepreneurs.
Deadline: 15 November 2025
Grand Prize: ¥1,000,000
Contact us for proposal drafting, refining and review.
