iiba Inc. (Headquarters: Minato-ku, Tokyo; CEO: Nana Aizawa), developer and operator of the child-rearing map app "iiba," announced on February 18 the commencement of the "Tomiya City Child-Rearing Map Digitalization Pilot Program" in partnership with Tomiya City, Miyagi Prefecture.
This project utilizes iiba's digital technology to create an environment where families can more conveniently access local shops and facilities. It aims to simultaneously revitalize the local economy and enhance child-rearing support services.
During the pilot program, original iiba POP displays featuring QR codes will be placed in "family-friendly shops and facilities" (including restaurants, cafes, supermarkets, and extracurricular schools) throughout Tomiya City.
By scanning the QR codes with their smartphones, users can easily post reviews of the location on the spot or check for nearby child-rearing information. This allows "authentic voices" from other parents to accumulate on the map, building an intuitive environment for families to choose their next destination.
Beyond the economic benefits of driving customer traffic and promoting local exploration, this initiative aims to use the accumulated review and mobility data to improve administrative policies.
iiba has been advancing partnerships with local governments nationwide, including Komaki and Toyokawa in Aichi Prefecture. The Tomiya City pilot program is part of this ongoing effort to establish a child-rearing support model tailored to regional needs through a fusion of digital and analog approaches.
■ ICT Startup League
This support program was launched in FY2023, following the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications' "Seed-stage R&D Support Project for Startup Creation."
The ICT Startup League supports startups through four key pillars:
① R&D Funding / Hands-on Support
Up to 20 million yen in R&D funding is provided in the form of grants. In terms of hands-on support, the selection committee members remain involved after the selection process to foster growth. For companies evaluated as "must-adopt," the committee members themselves provide ongoing support, including advice on business plans and access to growth opportunities—a support system akin to "fandom-style" mentorship.
② Discovery & Cultivation
Providing opportunities for learning and networking that drive the business growth of League members. It also seeks to discover aspiring entrepreneurs to expand the startup ecosystem.
③ Competition & Co-creation
Designed like a sports league, this is a space for positive competition where startups learn together and strive to secure the funding they need (up to 20 million yen). It also provides a "co-creation" space where members can collaborate and expand their businesses through sessions with committee members and other opportunities.
④ Communication
The League works with media outlets to broadcast the initiatives of its members. By raising public awareness of these businesses, the program aims to expand matching opportunities and create new possibilities.
■ Related Websites
ICT Startup League
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iiba Inc. (Official Site)
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iiba Inc. (LEAGUE MEMBER)
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Original Press Release (Japanese)
InnoJin Integrates Telemedicine with Pharmacies: Resolving Fragmentation in Ophthalmology
iiba Signs Cooperation Agreement with Komaki City, Aichi to Develop Digital Childcare Map
For more details on STARTUP LEAGUE's startup support, please see here.
