FAQ

• Can I apply as a single founder?

  Yes. We love working with founders who have brilliant ideas and are passionate about solving customer problems.

  Maybe this program will help you to build committed founder team.

• What stage of a startup are you looking for?

  This program is for early stage startups. If you have a good business idea and are committed to developing it into a successful business, that’s enough.

  However, more advanced companies and teams are also welcome.

• Is there a participation fee?

  No, the program is free for selected startups: Ikeuchi Group offers the development program for companies.

• What does participation in the program require from a startup?

  Companies must be committed to the program and actively participate in the events and perform the tasks assigned to them.

• Where are the events and bootcamps held?

  If the Covid-19 situation allows, the events will be held face-to-face in Sapporo hosted by Ikeuchi Group.

  If it is not possible, events will be organized virtually.

• What does international validation of an idea mean?

  This program has a unique international perspective and implementation of market validation.

  You will have access to Demola Global’s international student teams’ insight about the internationalization of business ideas and market opportunities.

• I cannot answer all the questions on the application form. What do I do?

  You do not have to have the answers to all the questions asked.

  Always answer honestly what the situation of your company or the stage of development of your idea is.

  It is correct to answer that we do not yet have this information or have not yet considered this.

• Why are the mentors from Finland?

  In Finland, the startup culture is one of the best in the world and Finnish startups receive a lot of capital investments to grow their business.

  We believe that we have a lot to learn from this in Hokkaido and we can share the best and latest development practices between our countries.