Tokyo Metropolitan SME Support Center and eiicon launch 'TOKYO SME OPEN INNOVATION PROGRAM Change'; 9 SMEs seek co-creation partners

eiicon, operator of Japan's largest open innovation platform 'AUBA,' has launched the 'TOKYO SME OPEN INNOVATION PROGRAM Change' in collaboration with the Tokyo Metropolitan Small and Medium Enterprise Support Center. Nine Tokyo-based SMEs have begun seeking co-creation partners to drive business transformation.

Through this program, eiicon provides comprehensive support including project planning, partner recruitment, matching, incubation, and public relations, working alongside these companies to accelerate their business development.

A special website was launched on June 10, 2026, and an online information session is scheduled for June 18, 2026.

Background of the Program SMEs account for approximately 99% of businesses in Tokyo, totaling over 410,000 entities, making them essential to the regional economy. This program aims to enhance 'dynamic capabilities'—the ability to adapt to external environment changes—through open innovation, facilitating the creation of new businesses.

Nine SMEs that participated in the previous year's 'Open Innovation Guidance' have returned for this 'Practical Application' phase, aiming for social implementation through collaboration with startups and other organizations nationwide.

Participating Companies and Themes (Selected) - Eco-Pork Co., Ltd.: Solutions for improving productivity and reducing environmental impact in the swine industry. - ESSH Inc.: An upcycling ecosystem to convert waste into new products. - M&HRE Partners Inc.: Building gardens as infrastructure for 'health and connection.' - Office Hodota Ltd.: Development of high-performance VR-wear and healthcare applications. - Globa Inc.: Evidence-based dementia prevention programs. - Sacule Inc.: Circular business models including reused home appliance rentals. - Nagasawa Manufacturing Co., Ltd.: Development of next-generation mechanical button locks. - Japan Bio Products Co., Ltd.: Medical diagnostic support to visualize frailty and chronic pain. - Fine Co., Ltd.: Preventive and pre-symptomatic medical solutions leveraging toothbrush manufacturing technology.