17 Apr Asics Launches Program To Support Startups
Asics announces the launch of Asics Accelerator Program, a business partnership acceleration program, for startups. The program is run jointly by Asics Corporation, Asics Japan Corporation, and Asics Ventures Corporation. Spiral Ventures Japan LLP is an operating partner.
The theme for Asics Accelerator Program is Road to 2020. The program seeks ideas from startups for products, services, and contents that would contribute to business opportunities in 2020, and aims to create new value together.
Applications from potential candidates will be open from March 5 through April 5, 2019, and after the first (written application) and the second round (interview) of screening, startups will be selected to participate in Demo Day. Selected startups will be consulted by Asics mentors to brush up their business proposals toward Demo Day. Demo Day will be held in July this year, and Asics executives will evaluate the proposals from startups before making a final decision on partnering. Then proof-of-concept will be conducted at stores, facilities, and events in Japan toward 2020.
One of the core strategies in the Asics Growth Plan (AGP) 2020 is creating differentiated innovation, and Asics focuses on creating revolutionary products, services, and processes that can bring about big changes in customer lifestyles and experiences.
Investment subsidiary Asics Ventures Corporation has already invested in three startups in Japan. In addition, an accelerator program Tenkan-ten was implemented in Europe from September 2018 through January 2019, supporting business expansion and promoting business tie-ups for five startups.
More details are available at asics.com/en/ventures/accelerator_program.