NEC Innovation Challenge for Startups (Up to $15,000) 2023

Join the NEC Innovation Challenge 2023, a one-of-a-kind opportunity for startups with innovative solutions in Large Language Models (LLM), Healthcare, Smart City (Child Safety and Protection, Smart Retail), and Urban Agriculture.

Collaborate with NEC, a leading global brand, alongside their partners and sponsors, toii tackle domestic challenges and transform them into feasible business opportunities in the Japanese market.

The challenge offers unparalleled mentorship from NEC and successful corporations, to governmental institutions. Leverage this unique chance to work with renowned partners, including NEC Enterprise, Kawasaki City, NOFF, and BIRD INITIATIVE, to bring your disruptive and innovative visions to life.

About NEC

NEC is a Japanese multinational IT company, and at NEC our mission is to create value for all members of society. We believe that, with technology and co-creation, digital solutions can address society’s needs. This year’s objective is ‘Global Co-creation’. Together, with NEC and NEC’s sponsors and partners, we hope to find the answers to today’s challenges and bring amazing ideas to life.... read more

NEC Innovation Challenge

Aim and Benefits of NEC Innovation Challenge

• NEC Award: Up to $15,000* for PoC development (*USD amount may vary as it will be calculated as equivalent to 2,200,000 yen at the time of February 2024.)
• NOFF Award: Discussions for funding from NOFF
• BIRD INITIATIVE Award: Support of entering the Japanese market by BIRD INITIATIVE (e.g. connections with Japanese developers, support on incorporation of Japanese companies, etc.)
• Agri-Tech Innovator Award: Access to the experimental farm field in Kawasaki City

Requirements for NEC Innovation Challenge Qualification

• Startups with innovative solutions in LLM, Healthcare, Smart City (Child Safety and Protection, Smart Retail), and Urban Agriculture

Application Deadline

How to Apply

For more details,visit NEC website