Sakai City Announces Nationwide Call for Startups to Conduct Proof-of-Concept Projects

Sakai City is currently accepting new business ideas from startups both within and outside the city that contribute to solving local social issues and generating innovation. Selected companies will be supported through the provision of testing fields within Sakai, including the Nakamozu area, and financial support for their proof-of-concept activities.

1. Themes Based on the "Sakai City Basic Plan 2030," projects must meet one of the following: - Initiatives contributing to solving social issues or improving the quality of life for Sakai residents. - Initiatives related to the themes or legacy of the Osaka-Kansai Expo: "Designing Future Society for Our Lives."

2. Eligibility - Private companies aiming to challenge innovative business models, provide new social value, and grow through proof-of-concept projects in Sakai. - Includes both new startups and second-stage startups. - Large corporations are excluded. - Residency in Sakai is not required.

3. Support Provided (1) Various Support Services - Provision of testing fields (public facilities, partner company facilities, etc.) - Matching with local private businesses necessary for project implementation. - Provision of administrative challenges (introduction to Sakai departments, etc.) - PR support for the proof-of-concept project. (2) Grant Funding - Subsidy Rate: Up to 50% - Maximum Grant: 1 million yen - Eligible Period: From grant approval date to March 31, 2026. - Eligible Expenses: Costs related to the project, such as facility fees and prototype production.

4. Examples of Testing Fields Sakai-related facilities (Sakai City Museum, Sakai Denshokan, sports facilities, etc.), elderly welfare facilities, local manufacturing businesses, coastal businesses, child care facilities, etc.

5. Application Apply by 5:00 PM on June 30, 2026, via the application form on the S-Cube website (https://www.s-cube.biz/roundtable).

6. Previous Results Available at: https://www.s-cube.biz/roundtable/result

7. Related Events - Sakai City Grant Explanation Meeting @WeWork Shiroyama Trust Tower (June 4, 2026) - Municipal Reverse Pitch @LiSH (June 5, 2026) - Proof-of-Concept Project Explanation & Networking @QUINTBRIDGE (June 15, 2026)