HFX is a Co-Creation Program designed to connect global startups with Hokkaido and support the local implementation of their technologies and strategic collaborations. HFX will connect startups with corporations, local government entities, and investors from Japan and around the world, to foster growth, solve societal challenges, and create new business opportunities.
HFX is more than just mentoring.
In addition to providing demonstration opportunities in Hokkaido, centered around Hokkaido Ballpark F Village, HFX enables startups to advance business development in real-world settings within a business co-creation ecosystem of partner companies, local governments, universities, support organizations, and regional communities.
At HFX, startups and decision-makers from partner corporations and local governments meet face-to-face during Kickoff Week.
Over the following six-month business co-creation period, they move quickly toward demonstrations and implementation.
10 business co-creation outcomes were achieved in Year 1 of the program.
Participating startups highly valued the concrete support provided, including direct access to decision-makers, on-site coordination, meeting follow-up, and interpretation support.
In the first cohort, HFX received significant coverage from many major Japanese media outlets throughout the program, from launch to the Demo Day, including NHK, Nikkei, Yomiuri Shimbun, Hokkaido Shimbun, and TV Hokkaido.
This generated strong public interest and attention.
Through this exposure, participating startups were able to increase their visibility, while also creating new opportunities for collaboration and business development.
HFX enables startups to explore regional expansion opportunities, starting with Hokkaido.
Business development in regional markets requires not only strategy, but also practical support, including understanding local conditions, building relationships with partners, collaborating with government and companies, and organizing supply chains.
With this support, HFX helps startups concretely assess their potential for expansion in Hokkaido and deepen insights that can be applied to other regions in Japan and overseas.
For specific outcomes from the first cohort, please see the Achievements page:
https://achievement2026.hfx.jp
Program schedule and contents to be revealed and explained through online meetings.
HFX all member kick-off event will be held in Hokkaido.
Business mentoring, including connecting startups with partners and local authorities to commercialise business, and funding opportunities will be provided.
PR opportunity through company pitch and achievements announcement at Demo Day.
Business support is provided for Portfolio companies from the selected year. Portfolio companies will be invited to following year events.
HFX is looking for startups to take on the challenge of open innovation in the following 5 categories.
Digitalization solutions for stadiums, including ticketing, payment, sensors, security, and analytics
Various agri-tech solutions for the food chain, including digitalization of the local food industry.
Services for micro mobility, EVs, software, and infrastructure to address regional mobility issues.
Introduction of technologies in renewable energy, sustainable materials, food, agriculture, and other areas.
Solutions in healthcare, nutrition, senior care, and inclusive tech to enhance resident well-being.
