Scrum Ventures Launches Program for Startup-Japan Corporate Connections
Scrum Studio Launches to Facilitate Startup Partnerships in Japan
Scrum Ventures, with headquarters in both San Francisco and Tokyo, has gained recognition for its accelerator initiatives concentrating on sectors like sports, food technology, and smart-city innovations.
The company has recently announced the establishment of a new incubator program designed to assist startups in developing business collaborations with Japanese corporations.
Introducing Scrum Studio
This new venture, named Scrum Studio, will operate as a separate entity from Scrum Ventures.
It will be led by Masami Takahashi, formerly the chief strategy officer and general manager of WeWork Japan.
Prior to his role at WeWork, Takahashi oversaw Uber’s operations within the Japanese market.
Focus and Future Plans
According to a statement given to TechCrunch, Scrum Studio is presently concentrating on the startups participating in its existing accelerator programs – Sports Tech Tokyo, SmartCityX, and Food Tech Studio.
Plans are in place to introduce additional programs in the future, each focused on distinct industry verticals.
Startups engaging with Scrum Studio will have the opportunity to establish Japanese subsidiaries or create joint ventures with established Japanese companies.
Existing Corporate Partnerships
Scrum currently maintains relationships with over 50 Japanese corporate partners.
- These include Aioi Nissay Dowa Insurance.
- Idemitsu Kosan Co, an energy company, is also a partner.
- For Smart City X, East Japan Railway Company collaborates with Scrum.
- Fuji Oil Holdings, Nissin Food Holdings, and ITO EN are partners for the Food Tech Studio.
“Our aim is to collaborate with startups and technologies that can contribute to resolving the challenges confronting our society today,” Takahashi explained in an email.
“These challenges encompass areas such as sustainability, health, safety, waste reduction, and the enhancement of urban efficiency and the well-being of citizens.”
Early Stage Event Announcement
Early Stage is positioned as a leading event offering practical guidance for startup entrepreneurs and investors.
Attendees will gain direct insights from successful founders and venture capitalists regarding business development, fundraising, and portfolio management.
The event will cover all facets of company building, including fundraising strategies, recruitment processes, sales techniques, achieving product-market fit, public relations, marketing, and brand development.
Each session is designed to encourage audience participation, with dedicated time allocated for questions and discussions.