On July 24, 2025, Tech Startup HOKURIKU (TeSH) held an event titled “Creating Global Startups from Hokuriku Academia – Life Sciences Edition” at CIC Tokyo, located in Toranomon Hills, Tokyo. The event was conducted in a hybrid format, combining in-person and online participation, and drew an audience of approximately 100 people.
TeSH is a platform for the creation of startups based on research results from 12 universities and 3 technical colleges in the Hokuriku region, led by Kanazawa University and the Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (JAIST).
To open the event, Startup Coordinator — Associate Professor of Kanazawa University Frontier Science and Social Co-creation Initiative Kunio Shimbo gave an opening address, introducing TeSH and showcasing the unique strengths of the Hokuriku region. Following his remarks, two researchers supported by the TeSH GAP Fund Program delivered presentations on their respective research and development initiatives. Associate Professor Hirofumi Nishizono from Kanazawa Medical University presented his work on the development and commercialization of a sperm activation device using targeted wavelength light. Meanwhile, Professor Masaya Oki from the University of Fukui introduced his research on a non-invasive eye drop treatment for diabetic retinopathy that targets ischemic areas.
Next, a panel discussion was held featuring not only researchers but also startup supporters and investors. The session was moderated by Mr. Masaru Nagura, Director of CIC Institute and Vice Representative Director of the Startup Ecosystem Association. Joining him on stage were Ms. Ayano Kagami, Assistant Director of CIC Institute, and Mr. Toshihiro Suzuki from Keio Innovation Initiative, Inc. The discussion offered candid insights into topics such as the role of researchers in launching startups, the challenges of securing funding and talent, and strategies for leveraging public support programs.
After the event, a networking session was held, where researchers, investors, and support organizations actively engaged with one another. The atmosphere hinted that new collaborations were already beginning to take shape.
TeSH will continue to actively support the creation of startups in the life science and deep tech fields originating from Hokuriku academia, aiming to create innovations that will spread from the Hokuriku region to the world.
?Click here to see the report on TeSH's website.
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Panel Discussion -
Group photo with speakers
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