5 min read
Tsukuba, Japan #909 Position in Global Startup Ecosystem Ranking
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City Scores
City Total Score
0.134
Overall ranking score
Quality Score
0.02
Ecosystem quality rating
Quantity Score
0.01
Ecosystem size rating
Business Score
0.1
Business environment rating
Score Distribution
Score Comparison
MeanCEO Index Click to scroll to details
Startup Ecosystem in Tsukuba 🇯🇵
TL;DR
Tsukuba is ranked as the 909th city in the Global F/MS “Best Cities for Startups” Index. Known as a hub for science and technology, Tsukuba offers a unique environment that encourages innovation, particularly in research and development industries.
Startup-Friendly Stuff 📈
1. Ease of Company Registration
- Business Registration: The registration process is straightforward, with online applications available for most procedures.
- Startup Incentives: Tsukuba provides several policies and incentives to encourage tech startups, including startup-friendly grants.
2. Employment Law 🏢
- Labor Regulations: Strong labor laws protect employee rights, which can be a hurdle for startups but ensures a fair working environment.
- Hiring Foreign Talent: While it is becoming more streamlined, obtaining work permits for foreign employees may still require some effort.
3. Taxation 💰
- Corporate Tax Rate: Japan has a standard corporate tax rate of about 23.2%, with possible reductions for eligible small businesses.
- Tax Incentives: Various incentives, including tax breaks for R&D and tech-based companies.
4. Quality of Life 🌆
- Living Standards: High quality of life with affordable housing options compared to major cities like Tokyo.
- Culture and Leisure: Rich in educational institutions and parks, providing a serene environment for both work and play.
5. Bureaucracy 🗂️
- Ease of Navigation: Generally, the bureaucratic process is manageable, but local regulations can vary and may require local knowledge.
- Government Support: There are several programs at the city level to foster innovation and support local startups.
6. Visas for Entrepreneurs 🌍
- Startup Visas & Permits: Japan is working on improving the visa process for entrepreneurs, with dedicated startup visas available.
- Residency Options: Opportunities exist for long-term residency for successful entrepreneurs meeting specific criteria.
Startup Community 🤝
7. Networking Events
- Multiple tech meetups, workshops, and industry conferences take place throughout the year.
- Tsukuba is home to various research institutes, providing ample networking opportunities.
8. Subsidies and Funding 💵
- Local and national government grants aimed at tech and research-based startups are available.
- Numerous initiatives focused on funding innovative projects and collaborations.
9. Venture Capital (VC) Presence
- Investments: Growing interest in Tsukuba, with several VC firms focusing on tech-driven ventures.
- Supporting Organizations: Local organizations and pitches help connect startups with potential investors.
10. Incubators & Accelerators 🚀
- Tsukuba offers multiple incubators focusing on R&D in biotechnology, robotics, and IT.
- These programs often provide mentorship, workspace, and access to funding.
Technology & Industry Priorities 🔧
- Focus Areas: Biotechnology, Robotics, Environmental Sciences, and IT.
- Government Initiatives: Heavy emphasis on scientific research and technology advancement through funding and promotion.
Business Culture 🏙️
- Language: Japanese is predominantly the business language, but many businesses cater to English speakers, especially in tech sectors.
- Work Environment: Generally collaborative and research-oriented, promoting a structured yet innovative approach.
General Pros and Cons ⚖️
Pros:
- Excellent resources for scientific research and innovation.
- Friendly environment for international collaborations.
- Supportive policies for young entrepreneurs and startups.
Cons:
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
- Natural disasters can impact local businesses, although the community is resilient.
Initiatives for Female Entrepreneurs 👩💼
- Increasing focus on supporting female entrepreneurs through networking events and funding.
- Programs designed to empower and mentor women in business and technology sectors.
Tsukuba presents a niche but rich opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to tap into a thriving tech and research environment. 🚀
MeanCEO Index for Tsukuba 🇯🇵
Tsukuba may not be the first city that comes to mind when discussing startup ecosystems, but it offers unique advantages for female entrepreneurs. Let’s analyze the MeanCEO Index score based on ten crucial factors.
1. Weather ☀️
- Score: 6/10
- Tsukuba has a temperate climate with a decent number of sunny days, but winters can be quite cold. Average rainfall, mainly in summer, keeps the weather balanced, making it a reasonable choice for year-round activities.
2. Location 🏖️
- Score: 4/10
- While Tsukuba is landlocked, it is still relatively close to the coast (about an hour’s drive). However, access to beaches isn’t as immediate, which may deter those seeking warm seaside relaxation.
3. Women Friendly 👩💼
- Score: 7/10
- Japan generally places a strong emphasis on politeness and respect for women. While the culture is evolving, challenges remain. Tsukuba’s initiatives for female entrepreneurs demonstrate a commitment to gender equality.
4. Foreigners Friendly 🌍
- Score: 5/10
- Tsukuba’s growing diversity makes it more welcoming, although there can still be a language barrier and cultural differences that might hinder integration. Local communities are generally kind and open, especially in tech sectors.
5. English as a Business Language 📚
- Score: 6/10
- Although Japanese is the primary language, many businesses, especially in tech and international startups, cater to English speakers. However, proficiency can vary widely, necessitating some language skills.
6. Delicious Cuisine 🍜
- Score: 8/10
- Japanese cuisine is renowned for its healthiness and flavor. Tsukuba offers a variety of local dishes and fresh seafood (though onions are used in some); overall, the culinary scene is both delicious and nutritious.
7. Ease of Getting Married and Starting a Family 💍
- Score: 5/10
- While there are appealing qualities in Tsukuba’s community, the dating scene may be niche. However, the presence of educational and research institutions can attract young, ambitious individuals.
8. Medicine 🏥
- Score: 7/10
- The healthcare system is well-regarded in Japan, providing timely appointments for most services. Costs vary but are generally manageable, making quality healthcare accessible.
9. Ease of Transportation & Traveling 🚍
- Score: 7/10
- Tsukuba benefits from a robust public transport system, including trains connecting to Tokyo. While it lacks an international airport, proximity to Narita and Haneda airports helps mitigate this limitation.
10. Startup Mindset 💡
- Score: 8/10
- Japan’s society is gradually embracing the concept of innovation and learning from failure. Tsukuba, with its supportive research institutions and incubators, fosters a positive environment for startups.
MeanCEO Index Score: 57/100 🎉
While Tsukuba may not boast the excitement of larger urban startup centers, it offers a unique blend of resources, support, and community culture that is conducive to female entrepreneurs. With exciting opportunities in technology and science, Tsukuba is an appealing choice for those willing to harness its niche strengths. Embrace the journey and discover the potential within this vibrant ecosystem! 🚀