Japan-based comic publisher Shueisha has formed an incubator and accelerator scheme dubbed Shueisha Startup Accelerator Program – Manga Tech 2020.
The four-month initiative will accept applications until September 30 before announcing the finalists in November. The top submission will obtain a ¥1m ($9,400) prize to carry out the idea while those who come in second and third will respectively receive $4,700 and $940.
Manga Tech 2020 looks to support entrepreneurs with manga-related business ideas including character licensing and content publishing, using artificial intelligence, regional revitalisation and mixed reality technologies in sectors such as agriculture, construction, cosmetics and hardware.
A group of mentors – including corporate venturers YJ Capital manager Keita Matsuyama and Monex Ventures director Seiichirō Wada – will offer advice to participants and provide industry know-how ahead of a demo day in March 2021. Participants may receive additional funding from Shueisha after completing the program.
