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公式X
Fish Pass to Accelerate Social Implementation of "Biodiversity DX" in 2026 ― Leveraging the No. 1 network of fisheries cooperatives to transform environmental measures from a cost into "value" ―
Fish Pass Inc. (Headquarters: Sakai City, Fukui Prefecture; Representative Director: Shigehiro Nishimura), a company promoting Digital Transformation (DX) for inland fisheries cooperatives, announced its 2026 New Year's message on January 8.
Last year, the company maintained its domestic No. 1 status in terms of partnered fisheries cooperatives and rivers, and awareness regarding the digital purchase of recreational fishing tickets exceeded 70%. Based on this foundation, the company has outlined a policy to further expand its initiatives in "Biodiversity DX" using environmental DNA technology this year.
■ Fishing Ticket Business: Making "Digital Purchase" the Standard for Fishing
As of January 2026, FISH PASS has partnered with 328 organizations, covering over 400 rivers.
In particular, the initiative to automatically attach insurance to all digital fishing tickets has been highly rated. By offering the convenience of 24-hour purchasing combined with a sense of security, the company aims to continue supporting a comfortable fishing life for anglers.
■ New Business: Visualizing the "Invisible" with Environmental DNA
In "Biodiversity DX," a key focus area for 2026, the company offers a solution that analyzes environmental DNA from just a cup of water to comprehensively visualize the biota.
Utilizing a nationwide network of over 400 fisheries cooperatives allows for rapid sampling, supporting corporate ESG management and TNFD compliance. Furthermore, by applying technology capable of detecting not only fish but also mammals, the company is advancing its use in wildlife damage countermeasures, such as visualizing bear habitats.
Representative Nishimura commented, "The challenge that began with the DX of fishing tickets has now expanded to 'Biodiversity DX' via environmental DNA technology. We will strive toward the realization of a sustainable society based on scientific data."
■ ICT Startup League
This support program was launched in FY2023, initiated by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications' "Startup Creation-type Emerging R&D Support Project."
The ICT Startup League supports startups through four main pillars:
1. R&D Funding / Hands-on Support
Up to 20 million yen in R&D funding is provided in the form of grants. Additionally, for hands-on support, the evaluation committee members involved in the selection process stay close to the startups after selection to promote growth. For companies that evaluators determine they "absolutely want to select," a "fandom-like" support system is established where the evaluators themselves provide continuous support, such as advice on business plans and providing growth opportunities.
2. Discovery & Incubation
We provide opportunities for learning and networking to encourage the business growth of league members.
We also expand the ecosystem by scouting for individuals aiming to start businesses in the future.
3. Competition & Co-creation
It serves as a positive competitive arena akin to a sports league, where startups learn together and compete to win the necessary funds (up to 20 million yen). It also provides a space for co-creation where league members collaborate to expand their businesses through various opportunities, such as sessions with evaluation committee members.
4. Communication
We disseminate the initiatives of league members in cooperation with the media! By letting many people know about these businesses, we aim to expand the field for new matching and opportunities.
■ Related Websites
ICT Startup League
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Fish Pass Inc. (LEAGUE MEMBER)
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Fish Pass Inc. (Official Site)
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Original Press Release (Japanese)
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For more details on STARTUP LEAGUE's startup support, please see here.