By Shavinya Abeywickrema
For tech startups looking to enter the Japanese market – particularly those working at the intersection of technology, creativity, and culture – Shibuya may prove to be one of the most exciting ecosystems to watch.
Enterprise IT News (EITN) had the opportunity to meet with Saeko Seno, Chief of Public Promotion for the Shibuya Startup Support initiative, a program led by the Shibuya City Government to strengthen the district’s position as one of Japan’s most dynamic startup ecosystems.
Shibuya has long been known globally as a cultural and commercial hub – home to youth culture, fashion, music, and digital creativity. Through the Shibuya Startup Support program, the city government is now actively working to translate that cultural energy into innovation and entrepreneurship.
During the discussion, Saeko highlighted several key initiatives designed to attract founders and accelerate early-stage ventures in Shibuya.
One of the most notable programs is the Startup Visa, which enables foreign entrepreneurs to establish companies in Japan while receiving support from local authorities during the early stages of business formation. The visa program reduces administrative barriers and allows founders time to develop a sustainable business plan before fully launching operations.
Another key mechanism is the Proof of Concept (PoC) support program, which allows startups to test new technologies and services within the Shibuya ecosystem. By enabling real-world experimentation and collaboration with local partners, the initiative helps early-stage companies validate their ideas before scaling commercially.
Saeko also emphasised the importance of community-driven networking opportunities. Shibuya regularly hosts events that bring together entrepreneurs, investors, corporate partners, and policymakers. These gatherings are designed to foster collaboration, knowledge exchange, and partnerships within the local innovation ecosystem.
It is notable that Shibuya City is particularly interested in attracting technology companies that align with the district’s cultural identity. Rather than focusing purely on conventional enterprise technology, the initiative is keen to support startups operating at the intersection of technology and culture – for example in areas such as digital media and creative technology that complement Shibuya’s unique history and global reputation.
Networking and community
Shibuya’s weekly “Snack and Connect” event, is a casual networking session that brings together entrepreneurs and ecosystem stakeholders in an informal environment. The event provides a space for founders to exchange ideas, learn more about available support programs, and connect with others in the startup community.
The visit provided valuable insight into how Shibuya is positioning itself not only as a cultural icon, but also as a launchpad for innovative startups that blend technology with creativity and urban culture.
For those interested in learning more about Shibuya’s startup ecosystem, the Shibuya Startup Support team will be hosting a networking event during SusHi Tech Tokyo on 28 April 2026. Additional information and updates can also be found through their media platform BlackBox, which highlights activities and opportunities within the Shibuya innovation community.