STATION Ai, Japan's largest open innovation hub, opens in Nagoya

Philip Lee -

Nagoya, Japan—STATION Ai, Japan's largest open innovation hub, opened on Tuesday in Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture. 

It aims to boost the startup ecosystem in the region.

Key facts:

  • 23,000-square-meter facility
  • Targets approximately 500 startups and 200 partner companies by Oct. 31
  • Seven-story smart building incorporating IoT and AI technologies
  • Operated by STATION Ai Inc., a SoftBank Corp (9434.T) subsidiary

The innovation center, developed as part of Aichi Prefecture's startup support initiative, began operations on Oct. 1, with member companies accessing office spaces. Public access will begin on Nov. 1.

SoftBank, selected as the facility's developer and operator in 2018, plans to leverage its corporate networks to attract diverse businesses and offer mentoring programs.

"We aim to create a global startup ecosystem with STATION Ai as its core," said Hirotaka Sahashi, CEO of STATION Ai Inc.

The facility implemented cost-saving measures during construction, including digital twin 3D modeling for piping inspections and AI-powered unmanned management of its fitness gym.

STATION Ai has secured partnerships with 146 companies across various industries. 

Eight prominent startup ecosystem figures have been appointed ambassadors to promote the hub.

The opening marks a significant step in Japan's efforts to cultivate innovation and entrepreneurship outside Tokyo.