The Kansai Innovation Initiative (KSII), a network partner of UPDATE EARTH, has been hosting an event called "Challenge Expo" annually since 2021 to build momentum for the success of the Osaka/Kansai Expo. The event aims to increase the visibility of university-originated startups.
This year, the event was titled "Challenge Expo 2024 – The Future Society Created by University-Originated Seeds and Startups" and was held over two days from October 31 at the headquarters of Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation in Otemachi, Tokyo, in collaboration with the bank.
A total of 26 universities from the Kansai region participated, with 35 university-originated startups and researchers giving presentations and showcasing their work. In addition, 8 universities and 11 companies from outside the Kansai region also presented and exhibited. Special lectures and panel discussions were also held during the event. Approximately 580 people attended, and matching support with presenters is being provided after the event.
The Osaka/Kansai Expo is expected to generate an economic impact of about 2 trillion yen, with the contributions of university-originated startups from Kansai likely playing an important role in this outcome.
(Reference)
- Organization: Kansai Innovation Initiative (KSII)
- Link: Challenge Expo 2024 – The Future Society Created by University-Originated Seeds and Startups
