Scrum Ventures launches global startup program expansion unlocking innovation opportunities and business partnerships in Hokkaido Japan

Fresh doors are opening for innovators worldwide as Scrum Ventures rolls out applications for the second year of its ambitious Hokkaido-based startup initiative.

Working alongside its co-creation arm, Scrum Studio, the firm is inviting startups to take part in the next edition of Hokkaido F Village X (HFX).

The program is designed to bridge the gap between international startups and Japan’s powerful ecosystem of corporations, universities, and regional stakeholders.

What Makes This Program Stand Out

At the heart of HFX lies a unique concept—real-world collaboration.

Instead of just pitching ideas, selected startups will actively work with Japanese partners to develop and deploy solutions.

Participants will gain direct connections to corporate leaders, municipal authorities, academic institutions, and regional operators across Japan.

This hands-on approach gives startups a rare chance to move quickly from concept to execution.

A Living Testbed in Hokkaido

One of the program’s biggest attractions is its base at Hokkaido Ballpark F Village.

This large-scale venue doubles as a live testing ground where startups can showcase and refine their technologies in front of real audiences.

From sports tech innovations to sustainability solutions, startups will be able to trial their ideas in a high-visibility environment—something few accelerator programs can offer.

What Selected Startups Will Gain

Around 10 startups will be chosen for Year 2, and those selected will benefit from a wide range of opportunities, including:

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• Real deployment across Hokkaido, starting with F Village
• Direct collaboration with Japanese corporations and institutions
• Media exposure through major outlets like NHK, Nikkei, and Yomiuri
• Potential investment backing from Scrum Ventures
• A structured pathway into the Japanese market and beyond

Timeline and Focus Areas

The program is scheduled to run from August 2026 through February 2027, ending with a showcase event—Demo Day 2027—where startups will present their progress and partnerships.

Applications are open until May 2026, targeting startups working in areas such as:

• Sports and stadium technology
• AgriFood innovation
• Mobility solutions
• Sustainability
• Wellbeing

Strong Momentum from Year One

The first edition of HFX set a high benchmark.

It attracted over 300 applications from 29 countries, with 11 startups eventually selected.

Those startups went on to form 10 active co-creation partnerships, and several projects have already moved into full deployment.

Participants rated the experience highly, with a Net Promoter Score of 90—highlighting the program’s efficiency in turning pilot ideas into real-world solutions.

The Bigger Vision Behind Scrum Ventures

Scrum Ventures has built a reputation as a global early-stage investor, backing more than 140 startups across industries like AI, robotics, climate tech, healthcare, and entertainment.

Beyond funding, the firm offers hands-on support, helping startups expand internationally, connect with co-investors, and build meaningful partnerships.

Through Scrum Studio, it goes a step further—creating platforms like HFX that turn collaboration into real commercial outcomes.

Impact and Consequences

This initiative is more than just a startup program—it’s a gateway into Japan’s often complex business landscape.

By simplifying access and accelerating partnerships, HFX could significantly lower entry barriers for foreign startups.

For Japan, the program injects global innovation into local industries, especially in regions like Hokkaido that are looking to boost economic growth and technological adoption.

What’s Next?

With applications now open, attention shifts to identifying the next cohort of startups that will join the program.

Selected teams will begin their journey in August 2026, working closely with partners to develop solutions that can scale across Japan and internationally.

The spotlight will ultimately fall on Demo Day 2027, where the success of these collaborations will be revealed.

Summary

Scrum Ventures and Scrum Studio are doubling down on their mission to connect global startups with Japan’s innovation ecosystem through the second year of Hokkaido F Village X.

With real-world testing, strong partnerships, and market entry support, the program is shaping up to be a powerful launchpad for startups aiming to expand into Asia.

Bulleted Takeaways

• Scrum Ventures launches Year 2 of Hokkaido F Village X startup program
• Around 10 startups will be selected for hands-on collaboration in Japan
• Participants will test solutions at Hokkaido Ballpark F Village
• Program runs from August 2026 to February 2027
• Focus areas include sports tech, mobility, sustainability, and wellbeing
• Year 1 saw global participation and strong success with real deployments
• Startups gain market entry support and potential investment opportunities