WELCOME TO
TEENAGE BUSINESS CONTEST JAPAN
We aim to launch a youth start-up competition to spark creative, locally grounded solutions that revitalize Japan’s regional economy. With the innovation and energy of young minds, this project encourages sustainability, innovation, and community-driven economic growth in rural Japan.
*Students must sign up by May 31st, 2026 to be eligible
Reviving Regions, Empowering Youth, & Reimagining Japan
Our Sponsers
Teenage Business Contest Japan (TBCJ) empowers high school students to tackle Japan’s regional challenges with bold, innovative ideas. More than a competition, it is a platform for young people to learn how to innovate, collaborate, and present solutions that create lasting impact in their communities and beyond.
Empowering the Next Generation
Empowering high school students in Japan to drive rural innovation and economic growth. Participating students (in teams or individually) will work to develop creative and practical business plans. This contest is designed to tackle real economic challenges in Japan's regional communities. Judges will evaluate each proposal based on innovation, feasibility, and potential impact. The team/individual with the highest score will be crowned the winner, receive a prize, and the final contestor(s) will have the opportunity to pitch their ideas to a panel of industry sponsors and local governments. These ideas might even get funded to make their dreams come true.
Current Challenges in Japan
Underutilized Natural Resources
Japan’s forests cover two-thirds of the land, yet forestry employs just 0.1% of the workforce.
Struggling Local Economies
Small businesses in regional areas face declining demand.
Regional Depopulation
Over 40 out of 47 prefectures are experiencing population decline.
Shrinking Workforce
Fewer working-age people means labor shortages, especially in agriculture, forestry, and manufacturing.
Lack of Innovation in Rural Areas
Rural regions often lack access to entrepreneurship education, technology, and investment.
Urban Over-concentration
Rural towns are losing population rapidly, leading to economic decline and school closures.
What Students Will Gain
Capital Raising Skills
Learn how to pitch and secure funding
Leadership Experience
Organize, collaborate, and execute real projects
Problem-Solving Impact
Address one of Japan’s biggest societal issues
Networking
Connect with business leaders, mentors, and local governments
Timeline
Proposal Submission
Deadline:
June 7th
Finalists
Announcement:
June 21st
Final Contest:
July 5th
Sign-up Deadline:
May 31st
Program Overview
Goals:
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Inspire students to create business solutions to revitalize rural economies in Japan
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Bridge urban-rural gaps with fresh, young perspectives
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Deliver real-world business education through mentorship and competition
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Promote sustainable, locally rooted initiatives
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Final winner: Opportunity to pitch directly to industry leaders and local government
