Hiroshima, Japan #697 Position in Global Startup Ecosystem Ranking

Startup Ecosystem in Hiroshima 🌸

TL;DR

Hiroshima is currently ranked as the 697th city in the Global F/MS “Best Cities for Startups” Index. Known for its resilience and innovative spirit, Hiroshima offers a supportive environment for startups, particularly in technology and social ventures.

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Startup-Friendly Stuff 📈

1. Ease of Company Registration

• Business Registration: Streamlined online registration process making it easy for startups to get started.
• Government Incentives: Local policies in place to foster growth, particularly in tech and green energy sectors.

2. Employment Law 🏢

• Labor Regulations: Comprehensive laws that provide employee protection while ensuring flexibility for startups.
• Foreign Hiring: Processes in place for employing international talent, though work permits are required.

3. Taxation 💰

• Corporate Tax Rate: Standard corporate tax rate around 23%, with reductions available for new businesses.
• Tax Incentives: Various tax breaks for startups focusing on innovation and technology.

4. Quality of Life 🌆

• Living Standards: Hiroshima boasts a high quality of life with affordable housing and modern amenities.
• Culture and Leisure: Rich in historical significance and cultural activities, along with beautiful parks and outdoor spaces.

5. Bureaucracy 🗂️

• Ease of Navigation: Generally manageable bureaucracy, but some permits and approvals can take longer than expected.
• Support Networks: Several government initiatives offering guidance for navigating administrative processes.

6. Visas for Entrepreneurs 🌍

• Startup Visas & Permits: Accessible options for entrepreneurs looking to establish businesses.
• Residency: Various options for long-term stays available for qualifying entrepreneurs.

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Startup Community 🤝

7. Networking Events

• Regular meetups and workshops aimed at connecting local entrepreneurs and investors.
• Annual startup contests attracting attention from national and international groups.

8. Subsidies and Funding 💵

• Strong governmental support for environmentally-focused startups with attractive grants and incentives.
• Local venture funds interested in supporting promising new businesses.

9. Venture Capital (VC) Presence

• Investments: Emerging local venture capital firms looking for unique startups.
• Investment Areas: Growing interest particularly in tech and sustainable industries.

10. Incubators & Accelerators 🚀

• Various incubation programs specifically targeting innovation, particularly in health and technology.
• Support structures include mentorship and seed funding opportunities.

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Technology & Industry Priorities 🔧

• Focus Areas: Clean technology, tourism, health-tech, and social entrepreneurship.
• Government Support: Initiatives aimed at driving technological innovation and sustainability.

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Business Culture 🏙️

• Language: Japanese is the primary business language, with growing English proficiency among younger professionals.
• Work Environment: Collaborative atmosphere focused on community-building and sustainability.

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General Pros and Cons ⚖️

Pros:

• Supportive local government for startups.
• Affordable living compared to bigger cities like Tokyo and Osaka.
• Vibrant cultural and community environment.

Cons:

• Smaller startup ecosystem than major metropolitan areas.
• Limited access to large-scale funding compared to bigger cities.

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Initiatives for Female Entrepreneurs 👩‍💼

• Active programs encouraging female-led startups with dedicated resources and networking opportunities.
• Numerous workshops and events focusing on empowering women in business.

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Hiroshima presents a unique blend of rich culture and supportive infrastructure, making it an appealing destination for entrepreneurs seeking to launch innovative ideas in a nurturing environment. 🌸

MeanCEO Index for Hiroshima 🌸

Hiroshima is a city with a rich history and an emerging startup ecosystem. Let’s examine how it scores on the MeanCEO Index based on ten critical elements vital for female entrepreneurs.

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1. Weather ☀️

• Score: 6/10
  • Hiroshima experiences a mild climate with a decent number of sunny days. However, it also faces a significant amount of rainfall during the summer months, which may dampen outdoor networking opportunities.

2. Location 🏖️

• Score: 6/10
  • While not directly on the beach, Hiroshima is located near the Seto Inland Sea, providing access to coastal areas. However, swimming conditions may not always be ideal, especially compared to other cities on the Pacific.

3. Women Friendly 👩‍💼

• Score: 7/10
  • Japan has a complex relationship with gender equality, but Hiroshima promotes various initiatives to support women in business. The growing female entrepreneurship programs reflect a more inclusive outlook.

4. Foreigners Friendly 🌍

• Score: 5/10
  • Generally welcoming, but language can be a barrier. The openness varies, and while there’s interest in forming connections, it may take time for foreign women entrepreneurs to fully integrate.

5. English as a Business Language 📚

• Score: 6/10
  • English is not widely used in business settings, but younger professionals are increasingly proficient. This can make navigating the entrepreneurial landscape a bit of a challenge for non-Japanese speakers.

6. Delicious Cuisine 🍽️

• Score: 8/10
  • Hiroshima is famous for its unique style of okonomiyaki, a delicious and hearty dish. The city also celebrates sustainable, high-quality local ingredients. However, the use of onions can be a point of contention for some.

7. Ease of Getting Married and Starting a Family 💍

• Score: 5/10
  • While there is a decent dating scene, cultural expectations around marriage and family can be rigid. The presence of attractive, sports-oriented men adds a positive aspect, but traditional views may affect the dynamics.

8. Medicine 🏥

• Score: 7/10
  • Healthcare services are generally efficient, with an emphasis on preventive care. While appointments can be booked relatively easily, costs may vary depending on coverage.

9. Ease of Transportation & Traveling 🚍

• Score: 8/10
  • Hiroshima boasts a robust public transportation system, including trams and trains. It’s also well-connected to major cities via Shinkansen (bullet train) and has an international airport for broader travel options.

10. Startup Mindset 💡

• Score: 7/10
  • There is a growing culture that embraces innovation and entrepreneurial activities, although the overall risk tolerance is still evolving. Startups are increasingly supported by local government initiatives focused on sustainability and technology.

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MeanCEO Index Score: 66/100 🎉

Hiroshima presents a balanced environment for female entrepreneurs, highlighting its innovative spirit and improving infrastructure. While there are several advantages, such as strong government support and rich culinary offerings, challenges exist in the language barrier and cultural expectations. Nevertheless, the city’s nurturing atmosphere and commitment to fostering startups make it a promising destination for women eager to embark on their entrepreneurial journey.

Happy entrepreneurship! 🌸