Group photo at the JICA Headquarters during the Kickoff Networking Event
■ Event Report
On Friday, September 12, 2025, the JICA Co-Creation × Innovation Program “QUEST” Kickoff Networking Event was held for selected project participants at three locations: JICA Headquarters (Tokyo), JICA Chubu (Nagoya), and online. A total of approximately 40 participants, including the selected project operators and JICA personnel, attended the event.
The event began with opening remarks by Mr. Toru Uemachi, Director General of JICA Chubu. This was followed by presentations of PoC (Proof of Concept) plans by each selected participant, as well as a Q&A session.
Scene from the “QUEST” Kickoff Networking Event at JICA Headquarters
The networking event was conducted by connecting three sites—Tokyo, Nagoya, and online—in real time. Each selected project operator took the stage to present their PoC plans in turn. The sessions featured lively Q&A exchanges among the selected operators and JICA staff at each location. There were also discussions on potential business collaborations between the participants, making it a highly productive and valuable networking opportunity.
The event concluded with closing remarks by Mr. Shinichi Tanaka, Senior Director of Operation Strategy Department. A networking session was also held at the Tokyo venue afterwards.
Group photo of the “QUEST” Kickoff Networking Event (Online)
Participants interacting at the event
The QUEST program is planning to hold a public Demo Day in January 2026. We look forward to your participation.
■ Upcoming Schedule
PoC (Proof of Concept): August – December 2025
Exit Strategy Planning & Demo Day: January 2026
If you have any questions, please contact us below.
■ Contact
QUEST Secretariat: quest-info@tohmatsu.co.jp
Business hours: 9:30–18:30 (weekdays only, support in Japanese and English)