On October 31, Aichi Prefecture officially opened Station Ai (stylized as “STATION Ai”), one of Japan’s largest open innovation centers spanning 23,000 square meters. This launch marks a significant milestone in Aichi’s startup strategy, aiming to create a dynamic ecosystem that leverages the region’s industrial legacy and technological expertise to drive innovation and industry growth.
Station Ai, which began welcoming startups and corporations on October 1, now hosts over 200 partner companies and 500 startups, including numerous international firms. Recognized by Japan’s Cabinet Office as part of the “Startup City Project Japan,” Aichi and the Hamamatsu region collaborate with entities like the Central Japan Economic Federation and Nagoya University under the Central Japan Startup Ecosystem Consortium to build a thriving startup community, attracting top talent, resources, and investments. Station Ai sits at the core of this growing ecosystem.
The October 31 opening event gathered notable figures, including Aichi governor Hideaki Omura and former Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, who appeared via video message. Omura highlighted Station Ai’s unique role as a space for startups and partners to collaborate under one roof. Kishida praised the steady progress since Japan’s five-year startup plan began in 2022, expressing hope that Aichi’s manufacturing strength and startup energy would unite to create global unicorns.
A dynamic space for startup showcases
Station Ai offers startups a vibrant, immersive environment where their technologies and products shape the visitor experience. Among its standout features, the facility displays 152 artworks by Heralbony, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. A rooftop terrace open to the public offers scenic views, enhancing the facility’s accessibility. Built as a smart structure, Station Ai integrates advanced technologies, such as real-time crowd density tracking, and allows for robotic demonstrations, facilitating collaboration with robotics startups.
The center provides various amenities to foster collaboration and support work-life balance, including open workspaces, gyms, childcare services, and diverse dining options. Additionally, a hotel with kitchenettes is available to the public, aiming to integrate the facility with the local area. Daily events and seminars at Station Ai encourage networking and interaction among startups and other stakeholders.
A supportive ecosystem for investment and partnerships
As the heart of Aichi’s startup ecosystem, Station Ai offers startups funding and business expansion opportunities, with onsite experts providing tailored support. Hidetoshi Hayashi, CEO of S-Mat, a startup specializing in inventory management solutions for manufacturing, credited Station Ai for connecting his company to essential contacts. Hayashi noted that S-Mat not only secured funding through these connections but also gained speaking opportunities and direct sales support.
Strengthening ties with international startups
Station Ai’s vision includes fostering global innovation by building connections with international startups. The center offers resources to foreign startups entering the Japanese market and facilitates joint ventures with Japanese companies. Currently, Station Ai partners with organizations in nine countries and 21 universities and research institutions. At the opening event, representatives from the National University of Singapore, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, and Tus-Holdings of Tsinghua University Science Park underscored the center’s international reach. Aichi is increasingly seen as an entry point for foreign startups looking to establish a presence in Japan.
Despite this promising start, Hirotaka Sahashi, CEO of Station Ai, acknowledged ongoing challenges.
Speaking in Japanese, Sahashi said, “Transforming Aichi, once seen as barren ground for ventures, still presents many hurdles. We have the infrastructure in place, but now it’s time to enhance our services and content.” He added that strengthening international partnerships and boosting foreign startup occupancy are top priorities.
With a mission to nurture startup innovation, Station Ai aims to invigorate the regional economy and foster new industries in the years to come.