Tokyo Metropolitan Government Fully Supports! "Modern Tokiwa-so Entrepreneur Training Program" Guiding from Anime/Manga IP Creation to Commercialization – Now Recruiting Additional 2nd Term Students!

ABC Animation Inc. (Headquarters: Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo; President: Yoshifumi Mori), as part of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government's "Project to Support the Development of Animators Who Will Thrive on the Global Stage," is undertaking initiatives to support business development in the anime and manga industries. This includes establishing a space (Atelier Lab) within the Tokyo Content Incubation Center (TCIC) where creators of anime and manga (hereinafter referred to as "animators, etc.") can concentrate on production, as well as providing knowledge and know-how on cutting-edge technologies and offering matching opportunities with content businesses.

We are pleased to announce that the application period for the 2nd term of the program has been extended. We look forward to applications from animators and others who aim to create original IP using digital technology, with a view towards global expansion, and who seek to start a business with a new business model.

1. Application Guidelines

Eligibility

Corporations (established within the last 10 years) or sole proprietors conducting anime or manga-related business within Tokyo

Or individuals planning to start a business within Tokyo

Application Period

From April 22, Reiwa 8 (2026) to July 12, Reiwa 8 (2026)

How to Apply

Please apply via the official website (https://tcic.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/news/1982/).

*For details on required documents, information sessions, etc., please refer to the official website.

2. Project Overview

Through an approximately 8-month program, we provide consistent support from dedicated staff including guidance on digital production skills, business knowledge, and fundraising know-how, to exit support such as sales channel development and networking with potential collaborators and investors. ▼Main Features ・Environment enabling animators and manga artists to create in the same space ・Utilization of digital technologies (AI, motion capture, 3DCG, etc.) ・Support system with expert mentors for starting and commercializing a business ・Provision of creative and business learning curricula by industry creators, individual mentoring ・Networking opportunities with content-related companies, investors, financial institutions, etc. (for considering collaboration and fundraising)

◆Workshops (Approx. August Reiwa 8 to March Reiwa 9)

Guidance on digital production skills, business knowledge, and fundraising know-how (approx. 20 sessions)

◆Themed Production Presentation (December Reiwa 8)

Presentation of content created based on a common theme provided by the secretariat. Inviting industry stakeholders.

◆Prototype Production (December Reiwa 8 to March Reiwa 9)

Production of prototype works based on each participant's original IP theme and formulation of plans for commercialization.

◆Prototype Presentation (March Reiwa 9)

Inviting content companies, VCs, financial institutions, etc., as potential collaborators to present original IP prototypes and commercialization plans.

*Program content is subject to change.

About ABC Animation Inc.

ABC Animation Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Asahi Broadcasting Group Holdings Corporation. The company handles the group's animation business, including the production and production of animation content, investment, licensing (domestic and international program sales, merchandising, events), and more.

Company Name: ABC Animation Inc.

President: Yoshifumi Mori

Location: 4F PMO Shinjuku Gyoenmae, 2-1-12 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo

Established: April 2016

Business: Planning and production of TV and theatrical animations, and related content business development including videogram sales, overseas sales, merchandise sales, and events.

Official Website: https://www.abc-anime.co.jp