JAL Achieves Highest Rank in Transportation Industry at Keidanren's '4th Startup Friendly Scoring'

May 22, 2026

JAL Group has been ranked 7th overall in the '4th Startup Friendly Scoring' organized by the Japan Business Federation (Keidanren), recognized for its contribution to vitalizing the startup ecosystem. This is the highest rank ever achieved by a company in the transportation industry.

Introduced by Keidanren in 2022, this scoring system visualizes the friendliness and contribution levels of large companies—key components of the startup ecosystem—to startups, in order to promote innovation in Japan. Evaluation is based on initiatives and track records in three areas: 'resource provision,' 'business/talent integration,' and 'business/talent fostering.'

JAL Group was highly rated for its initiatives centered on its self-operated CVC fund, including collaboration and co-creation with startups, and exchange of businesses and talent through active carve-outs. Additionally, the company was recognized for its track record of introducing startup products and services, and for establishing systems to support employee entrepreneurship and new business creation.

Key Initiatives Over the Past 5 Years

- Collaborated with A*Quantum to develop and implement an optimization application for flight maintenance schedules using quantum computing technology. The company aims for productivity improvements through company-wide DX, new business creation, and external sales of solutions.

- Collaborated with Heralbony under the concept of 'Beyond,' aiming for a barrier-free society, much like the borderless 'sky.' Through in-flight amenities and paper cups, the company is creating opportunities for travelers to connect with new values, contributing to a society where diverse people can enjoy richer lives.

- Entered a business alliance with PowerX to establish a 'Carbon-Zero Agriculture Model' and ensure high-quality, year-round strawberry production. The company is proceeding with cultivation verification aiming for efficient power usage utilizing solar panels and storage batteries.

- As part of the JAL Group's goal to achieve net-zero CO2 emissions by 2050, the company invested in and is supporting the business expansion of US startups Heirloom and Captura.

Going forward, JAL Group will continue to drive innovative services and technology development through co-creation with startups, contributing to the realization of a sustainable and prosperous society.