The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry will extend support to organizations that help start-ups. It will designate 33 projects undertaken by businesses and universities and seek their support for start-ups looking to obtain manufacturing and commercialization know-how. It will pay half of the expenses. It expects this initiative to help start-ups grow by tapping Japan’s manufacturing expertise.

Companies and schools across the country, such as Panasonic, NEC, Sharp, the Kyoto University of Art and Design and Kyushu Institute of Technology, will undertake designated projects. They will cooperate with start-ups in product planning and design. They will receive subsidies to help cover the costs of equipment and other items needed for commercialization. (Abridged)