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1 Recruitment Theme

Products or services that contribute to solving issues related to the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals).

Priority will be given to startups developing products or services that contribute to decarbonization or carbon neutrality.

2 Application Requirements

• Startups that are developing or commercializing products or services related to the recruitment theme above.
  (In principle, a product prototype must be available. However, for R&D-oriented startups, it is acceptable if the team has already been formed.)
• Must be currently expanding or planning to expand overseas, or have mid-to-long-term plans for overseas expansion.
• Founders, business leaders, or other members capable of decision-making must be able to participate.
• Must be able to attend the results presentation event (Demo Day, planned for a full day) held in Kobe City in person.
• Applications are accepted from anywhere in Japan; however, startups without a base of operations(※) in Hyogo Prefecture must establish one by the program’s start date (June 26, 2025).
  *A base of operations refers to a head office, branch office, sales office, or coworking space within Hyogo Prefecture. It does not need to be officially registered. If you do not have a base in Hyogo at the time of application, you may contact the program office for individual consultation.

Even if you were selected for the SDGs Challenge from 2021 to 2024, you are still eligible to apply. Furthermore, if you aim to expand further overseas, you may travel to the same region as during the previous selection. Travel destinations will be discussed with the selected startups after the decision is made.

3 Program Overview

The program will be carried out in the following four parts:

• Kick-off Session: June 26, 2025, from 15:00 to 16:00 (Online)
• Domestic Support Program: June to October (Online)
• Overseas Support Program: October to the end of January 2026 (In-person/Online)
• Demo Day: Late February to early March 2026 (In-person)

*Cost Support for Overseas Expansion Demonstration and Research Projects

*Startups selected for this program will receive up to 1,000,000 JPY (including tax) per company to cover expenses for market research, demonstration projects, and participation in overseas startup support programs.

4 Number of Selected Startups

Approximately 10 startups

5 Participation Fee

Free of charge

*However, transportation and accommodation costs for in-person participation, such as Demo Day, must be covered by the participants.
*Costs related to overseas expansion demonstrations and research projects can be covered through separately defined expense support.

6 Application Period

May 9, 2025 (Fri) to May 30, 2025 (Fri), until 18:00 (JST)

7 How to Apply

Please apply through the application form on the official program website.