The 3rd 'Startup League Academy' was held on October 8, 2025.

This event featured a special session by Mr. Shimozono of eiicon Inc., who also serves as a selection committee member. Two selected companies took the stage for a value-up session, where lively discussions were held to further accelerate their business growth.

■Special Session: 'Riding on the Shoulders of Giants: A Startup's Approach'

Mr. Shimozono (pictured right), on the theme of 'Riding on the Shoulders of Giants: A Startup's Approach,' explained the key perspectives for startups when collaborating with large corporations.

He particularly emphasized the importance of understanding the internal dynamics that corporate representatives face and framing discussions in a way that positions them for a win by clearly presenting the benefits.

Additionally, before and after the session, Mr. Nakamura (pictured left), a member of the steering committee and CEO of eiicon Inc., also took the stage. He added that to succeed in open innovation, it is necessary to clarify its purpose and approach it with a strategy distinct from sales. He also mentioned that effectively utilizing seed-stage startup programs offered by local governments can be a valuable strategy, making it a very meaningful time for the participating startups.

■Value-Up Session by AironWorks Inc.

AironWorks Inc. highlighted their challenges, which included increasing product awareness and strengthening collaboration with sales partners.

In response, experts engaged in a heated discussion about the effectiveness of building a brand that allows client companies to boast that 'our security level has improved,' going beyond mere feature explanations. They also discussed the importance of finding powerful partners who can act as influencers.

■Value-Up Session by Bashow Inc.

Bashow Inc. was considering collaboration with automobile manufacturers but faced difficulties in how to approach them.

Experts offered various suggestions for further business growth, proposing that rather than trying to ride on the shoulders of a difficult 'giant' like an automaker, Bashow should first focus on enriching its content as a smartphone app that meets the diverse needs of users on the move, thereby establishing itself as an 'indispensable app'.

■Full Report and Event Buzz on Social Media!

More details from the intense sessions will be shared in a full report to be released at a later date.

The latest information will be announced on our official X (formerly Twitter), so be sure to follow us and stay tuned for updates.
Official X Account:https://x.com/startupleaguejp

You can also experience the live excitement of the day by searching for the hashtag!
Recommended Hashtag:#スタートアップリーグアカデミー