Unleashing Japan's Unique Brilliance on the World Stage
GRIC 2025 Opening Session Mr. Matsuda of HERALBONY, whose collaboration with LVMH drew global attention, takes the stage in the GRIC 2025 Opening Session. We trace how Japan’s unique concept of “isai” (distinct individuality) has become a competitive advantage on the global stage. Mr. Tim Rowe of CIC offers a global perspective on the key success factors, joined by the event’s host Mr. Shimizu to discuss how Japan can build an ecosystem to foster the next HERALBONY.
From Japanese Labs to the World – How Academia Is Powering the Next Wave of Growth Industries
Japan’s next-generation growth engine lies in deep tech emerging from academia. The critical question is: how can world-class research be transformed into globally competitive businesses? In this session, a powerhouse panel — Mr. Nagata of deep tech investment firm UntroD, Professor Ishikawa of Tokyo University of Science, and Mr. Yamamoto of UTokyo/RIKEN TLO — will explore both the potential and realities of deep tech that could shape Japan’s future.
The New Normal for Business Leaders ~ The World Economic Forum Warns of Biggest Risks and the Future Pioneered by Defense Tech: Experts from Japan, Israel, and the US Talk ~ (English Session)
How does "Defense Tech" respond to the geopolitical risks and cyber warfare warned about by the WEF? Experts from Japan, Israel, and the U.S.—including Hitachi, a former Israeli Cabinet Secretary, and the CEO of AironWorks—will appear. Guided by a Nikkei journalist, they will discuss the new security norms that corporate leaders should know and practical approaches to addressing them through technology.
Can AI Deliver the Ultimate Customer Experience? – Reinventing GTM Strategy for the Next Era
Can AI create the “ultimate customer experience”? Lena from Notion and Shimizu from ZEALS discuss next-generation GTM strategies—featuring live demos of Notion AI, insights into the latest Silicon Valley trends, and comparisons between how Japan and the U.S. leverage AI. Together, they explore what “only humans can do” in a future where AI and people collaborate.
The Frontlines of SpaceTech – Global Realities and Japan’s Path to Win
Space development has entered a private-sector-driven “commercial” phase. Key figures from ispace, SpaceData, Mizuho Bank, and JAXA come together for this session. From the perspectives of finance, lunar exploration, data utilization, and national strategy, they will have a candid discussion on the real state of global space development and explore the strategies Japan must pursue to truly succeed in SpaceTech.
What's Holding Japan Back? Rethinking Japan’s Global Standing and the Keys to Economic Growth
Under the theme 'What’s Off About Japan?', this session explores the gap between macro-level expectations for Japan’s economy and the micro-level discomfort felt on the ground. From global, corporate, and frontline perspectives, we examine Japan’s structural distortions and cultural peculiarities—such as slow decision-making and risk aversion. Rather than viewing these anomalies as weaknesses, we seek to uncover the hidden business potential within them and explore how they can be transformed into engines of growth
Transforming Business Models and Going Global – How Japanese Entertainment Can Win in the New Era
What business model transformations and global strategies will allow Japanese entertainment to succeed on the world stage? Four industry leaders — Mr. Nakagawa, Mr. Osamu Suzuki, Ms. MEGUMI, and Mr. Yamada — will take the stage to share their innovative challenges and global strategies, presenting a new path to success for Japan’s entertainment industry.
Japan’s Revival Strategy: Legacy for the Next Generation and the Power of the Regions
At a time when Japan’s future is viewed pessimistically, this session proposes a “Strategy for Japan’s Revival.” Three leaders will focus on “people,” “community,” and “places” to discuss what “assets” should be passed on to the next generation and how to unlock the potential of “regional areas,” which are key to Japan’s revival. The discussion will explore a vision for the future from the perspectives of macro strategy, regional practice, and design.
The Front Lines of Talent Acquisition and Organizational Transformation by Major Corporations and Startups for "Advanced IT Human Resources"
The key for Japanese companies to succeed in global competition lies in collaboration with India — home to world-class engineering talent. This session, organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry’s India-Japan Talent Bridge (IJTB) Program, will feature speakers from leading Japanese corporations and startups. They will discuss why Japanese companies are now turning their focus toward India and accelerating their talent recruitment efforts there. Beyond simply securing talent, the session will dive into real-world examples and strategies for organizational and cultural transformation — centered on highly skilled IT talent and joint innovation with India.
Pioneering the Future through Business Creation and Entrepreneurship
Hiroshi Mikitani of Rakuten and Yoichi Naito of Drecom engage in a dialogue on the theme “Business Creation and Entrepreneurship that Shape the Future.” Moderated by Ms. Suzuki of For Startups, the session explores Mikitani’s management philosophy and leadership, and examines what Japanese companies need to do to strengthen their global presence.
Connecting Japan’s Startups to the World — EventHub and Global Leaders on the Power of Conferences
As Japanese startups look to expand globally, building relationships with international audiences is becoming essential. Conferences play a vital role in creating these connections. This session brings together leaders from Japan, the U.S., and Asia to explore what makes conferences truly global—and how they can open new opportunities for Japan’s startup ecosystem.
How Will Growth Market Reforms Reshape Japan’s Startup Ecosystem—and What Will It Take to Create the Next Big IPO?
How will the 2025 Growth Market listing criteria changes impact Japan’s startup ecosystem? This session explores how to turn this rule change into an opportunity to create the next Big IPO. Panelists — Mr. Nagai of Nomura Securities, Mr. Yuasa of Globis, Mr. Mera of READYFOR, and Mr. Miyata of Nstock — will engage in an in-depth discussion. From the perspectives of markets, investors, and founders, they will analyze the real impacts on capital strategy and growth planning, uncovering strategies to foster the next generation of unicorns.
Accelerating Global Growth — Rethinking How We Hire Beyond Borders
Global hiring is becoming the new standard for growth. Deel empowers companies to build borderless teams. In this session, we’ll explore the future of global hiring through Deel’s own growth journey and real-world examples from thousands of companies — uncovering how to build teams that can compete on a truly global stage.
The Next Frontier of Energy: How Decarbonization and Frontier Technologies Are Reshaping Industrial Structures
Amid the global push for decarbonization and the ongoing energy crisis, this session explores the structural transformation of Japan’s energy industry. Focusing on the reorganization and expansion of the entire sector, it highlights frontier technologies such as renewable energy, hydrogen, nuclear fusion, and CCUS. From the perspectives of both major corporations and startups, the discussion goes beyond simple collaboration cases to ask: Why are these technologies crucial now? and How can they be industrialized? Together, we will envision the future of Japan’s energy industry as the nation’s next growth engine.
What Evolution is Required of VCs to Generate Unicorns/Decacorns?
The creation of unicorns and decacorns cannot be achieved through funding alone. Venture capitalists who work closely with entrepreneurs and help them overcome bottlenecks are essential. In this session, we will discuss the “new role of VCs” based on reproducible support models such as hands-on involvement, global perspectives, and effective use of assets. The discussion will focus on investment selection criteria, growth strategies, and ways to overcome challenges, exploring from multiple angles the conditions necessary for creating unicorns originating from Japan.
Beyond AI Implementation: Turning Technology into Value to Shape Japan’s Future
AI implementation in society has moved from “how to use it” to “how to create value with it.” Panelists Mr. Uenoyama of PKSHA Technology, Mr. Nagasaki of OpenAI Japan, and Mr. Kizaki of NewsPicks Studios will explore this evolution. Facing barriers that technology alone cannot overcome, they will discuss the current state and future of AI implementation in society. Key topics include strategies to turn technology into real value, overcoming Japan’s structural challenges, and envisioning the society we should build beyond AI.
A Global Playbook for Japanese IP: Unlocking Global Markets with Next-Gen Technologies
This session explores strategies for Japanese IP to continue thriving on the global stage. Top leaders from the worlds of characters, anime, manga, and more will gather to discuss global strategies leveraging next-generation technologies such as AI, Web3, and the metaverse. They will offer strategic guidance on how to spark cross-border excitement, unpack the stories behind successful cases, and envision future business models for worldwide expansion.
Liberal Arts and Leadership ~ What are the requirements for leaders of rapidly growing companies that transform social infrastructure? ~
In today’s age of increasing specialization, why do leaders need the liberal arts? This session explores how leaders leverage broad knowledge to interpret complex changes, drive innovation, and make ethical decisions. Through concrete examples of business decisions, participants will examine the essence of leadership in high-growth companies shaping societal transformation.
Mr. Kameyama, What Do You Think of My Company? A Public Consultation Session with Young Entrepreneurs
A public consultation session where Chairman Kameyama of DMM engages with energetic young entrepreneurs, who bring their real-world challenges in business and organization to the table. Expect sharp insights and advice that get to the heart of the matter in an unscripted, candid discussion. This session offers valuable learning and inspiration for entrepreneurs and anyone involved in business creation.
The New Wave of Sustainable Fashion: How Technology and Circularity Are Reshaping the Industry
How will “technology” and “circularity” reshape the fashion industry amid growing sustainability challenges? This session features Mr. Shimizu from MicroBioFactory, driving innovation in materials and production processes; Mr. Fukuda from KEARNEY, analyzing global industry trends; and Ms. Kato from amu, implementing circular business models such as resale and upcycling. Together, they will discuss the future vision and strategies of next-generation sustainable fashion—from advances in production technology to the realization of circular systems.
Purpose-Driven Paths to Global Success: Why Japan Must Embrace the Global Challenge to Shape Its Future
What global path to success can be unlocked by the “aspiration” that shapes Japan’s future? Moderated by Mr. Umezawa of A.T. Kearney, the session features SKY-HI of BMSG, Mr. Matsuda of POCKETALK, and Mr. Tsuwaki of the Cabinet Office. These leaders, operating at the forefront of entertainment, technology, and national strategy, will candidly discuss the aspirations driving their challenges, the barriers they’ve faced, and the hope their work brings to Japan’s future.
The creation of unicorns and decacorns cannot be achieved through funding alone. What’s essential is the presence of venture capital firms that walk alongside entrepreneurs, helping them overcome the bottlenecks that arise in business growth. In this session, participating firms will discuss the evolving role of venture capital through reproducible support models—ranging from hands-on involvement and global value creation to value enhancement leveraging the assets of corporate groups. The discussion will also explore key questions: What perspectives guide their investment decisions? How do they help entrepreneurs and startups scale? And how do they overcome the hurdles that emerge during business and organizational growth? Together, we will examine, from multiple angles, the conditions necessary for fostering Japan-born unicorns.
As Japanese startups aim to expand globally, building relationships with international “customers” has become more critical than ever. One key to unlocking these connections lies in conferences—where people and companies from around the world gather to exchange ideas and forge partnerships. But what makes a conference truly attract global participants? Those who have attended overseas events may have felt a clear difference compared to the typical experience in Japan. Why is it now essential for Japanese conferences to go global? And what impact could this shift have on Japan’s startup ecosystem as a whole? In this session, leading figures from the startup and investment communities across Japan, the U.S., and Asia will share their insights on how global opportunities emerge through conferences—and how startups can make the most of them.
The fashion industry now stands at a major crossroads—facing the urgent need to move away from the conventional model of mass production and mass disposal. Sustainability is no longer just a trend; it is a core management agenda that determines a company’s survival and growth. This session, centered on the themes of technology and circularity, explores the frontlines of sustainable fashion and the industrial transformation it is driving. Our speakers include Mr. Shimizu of MicroBioFactory, who leads innovations in material development and production processes through biotechnology such as microorganisms; Mr. Fukuda of KEARNEY, who analyzes global trends and business models in the fashion value chain; and Ms. Kato of amu, who promotes circular systems like resale and upcycling in society. Together, these pioneers—advancing material innovation, AI-driven demand forecasting, and the circular economy—will discuss their practical initiatives and visions for the future. We will examine how technology and new business models can reduce environmental impact while creating new market value, and present strategies for realizing the next-generation fashion industry.
Deel is transforming the way companies build teams by making it easier than ever to hire talent anywhere in the world. Instead of being limited by geography, organizations can now attract and onboard the best people globally, while navigating local regulations and ensuring a smooth employee experience. In this session, we’ll discuss how Deel has scaled its own business while helping thousands of companies expand into new markets and grow their teams internationally. We’ll also highlight why global hiring is becoming a new standard for growth, and how companies that embrace this approach can compete more effectively on the world stage.
With Japan facing population decline and a loss of global competitiveness, pessimism about the nation’s future continues to grow. In this critical moment, we must ask ourselves: What should we leave behind for the next generation, and how can we rebuild Japan? In this session, three visionary leaders, each deeply committed to shaping Japan’s future, will present their own perspectives on a “Japan Renewal Strategy.” People. Community. Place. These three elements are essential to Japan’s revival — but how do these leaders perceive, nurture, and connect them to the future? What is the true “asset” we should bequeath to the next generation? And how can we unlock the untapped potential of regional Japan, which may hold the key to national revitalization? From macro-level national strategies to local initiatives rooted in community practice, and spatial design that draws people together — when these perspectives intersect, a new vision for Japan’s future begins to take shape. This is not just another session of analysis and problem statements. It is an earnest, forward-looking dialogue — a serious and hopeful discussion offering both inspiration and actionable guidance for every business leader, changemaker, and member of the next generation who truly wishes to confront Japan’s future.
Facing the dual challenges of the energy crisis and decarbonization, Japan’s energy industry is now being pushed to undergo a fundamental structural transformation. This session focuses not on supporting individual startups, but on the reorganization and expansion of the entire industry as a whole. The mainstreaming of renewable energy, the realization of a hydrogen-based society, the ultimate potential of nuclear fusion, and frontier technologies such as CCUS (carbon capture, utilization, and storage)—these are no longer distant dreams but concrete national agendas that will define Japan’s global competitiveness. In this session, we will engage in a multidimensional discussion on how Japan’s energy industry can evolve around these key technologies. Beyond simply introducing examples of collaboration, we will delve into forward-looking strategies that address questions such as “Why are these technologies nationally significant right now?” and “How can Japan establish globally competitive industries based on them?” Together, we will envision the future of Japan’s energy sector as the next engine of national growth.
The key for Japanese companies to succeed in global competition lies in collaboration with India — home to world-class engineering talent. This session, organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry’s India-Japan Talent Bridge (IJTB) Program, will feature speakers from leading Japanese corporations and startups. Together, they will discuss why Japanese companies are increasingly focusing on India and accelerating their talent recruitment there. Going beyond simply securing labor, the session will highlight real-world examples and strategies for organizational and cultural transformation — centered on highly skilled IT talent and joint innovation with India.
Japan’s intellectual property (IP) — from beloved characters to anime and manga — has become a universal language that captivates people around the world. However, as global competition intensifies and fan values diversify, Japan’s IP industry now needs a new roadmap to maintain its brilliance and reach even greater heights. In this session, the top pioneers shaping the future of IP business come together to present that very compass for the journey ahead. Leaders from the worlds of character creation, animation, and manga will each share their perspectives on strategies for ensuring that Japanese IP continues to thrive globally. How will innovations in AI-driven production, the evolution of Web3 fan communities, and new IP experiences in the metaverse transform the industry? And how can next-generation technologies be leveraged to create borderless passion and engagement? From the untold insights behind major success stories to visions of future business models, this session offers discussions you won’t hear anywhere else. Here lies the key to unlocking Japan’s full IP potential and expanding it into the global market. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to explore — and co-create — the future of entertainment.
The Nikkei Stock Average has reached an all-time high, and macroeconomic indicators suggest that Japan may finally be emerging from its “lost three decades.” Yet, those of us on the frontlines of growth industries still feel a disconnect — a sense that Japan remains out of step with global standards, marked by slow decision-making and a cautious, risk-averse mindset that lingers in society. In this session, we will confront head-on the structural distortions and peculiarities unique to Japan — the very forces that create the gap between macro-level optimism and on-the-ground reality. Through a lively debate among thought leaders who view Japan from the perspectives of the global stage, corporate management, and the frontlines of industry, we will explore the idea that within Japan’s “oddities” — its singularities — lie vast, untapped business and market opportunities. Together, we will search for the mental frameworks and guiding lines of thought that can help transform these anomalies into the driving energy for Japan’s next wave of growth.
~ This session will be conducted in English ~ The World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Global Risks Report identifies an escalating series of threats — from misinformation and geopolitical conflicts to cyber warfare — that increasingly endanger both nations and corporations, consistently ranking among the top global risks. In this session, experts from Japan, Israel, and the United States—leaders at the forefront of security and technology—will engage in a multidimensional discussion on how the evolution of Defense Tech can confront these growing threats. Against the backdrop of AI-driven disinformation, cyber intelligence and information warfare, interstate conflicts, and social fragmentation—risks that directly impact corporate management—this discussion will explore how technology can shape new frameworks to safeguard nations, economies, and enterprises. Moderated by a security correspondent from Nikkei, the panel brings together: the Executive Vice President & CD&SO of Hitachi, Ltd., the former Cabinet Secretary of Israel, and the CEO of AI cyber-defense company AironWorks. Together, they will share the new realities of security that leaders must understand today, and practical strategies for addressing them through technology.
Population decline. Economic stagnation. At a time when anxiety about Japan’s future is louder than ever, where does the nation’s true path to victory lie? Perhaps the answer does not rest in superficial strategies, but in the unwavering “aspiration” carried by those who genuinely dare to take on the world. In this session, extraordinary leaders who embody the spirit of creating Japan’s future by competing globally come together for an in-depth dialogue. Moderated by Mr. Umezawa of A.T. Kearney, an expert in Japan’s national growth strategy, the discussion will delve into the essence of each speaker’s global challenge. SKY-HI, founder of BMSG, who shattered conventions in the music industry to deliver “good music and good performance beyond borders,” creating a world-class boy group. Mr. Matsuda of POCKETALK, whose mission to “eliminate language barriers” is driving a global communication revolution that transcends hardware. And Mr. Tsuwaki from the Cabinet Office of Japan, who is spearheading government efforts to support startups expanding overseas as part of Japan’s national strategy. What is the source of their driving ambition? What real barriers have they faced on the global stage — and what inner force enabled them to overcome those challenges? Most importantly, what hope do their bold pursuits bring to the future of Japan? This is not a session of simple success stories. It is a passionate, unflinching conversation — spanning entertainment, technology, and national strategy — about the conviction, courage, and vision required to unlock Japan’s next frontier.
In an era where specialization and efficiency are hailed as the keys to success, why has the seemingly indirect path of liberal arts become an indispensable weapon for today’s business leaders? How do these leaders interpret the complex, unpredictable shifts of our time and steer their organizations accordingly? How can deep insights drawn from history, philosophy, and culture become a source of innovation — nurturing the flexible thinking needed to overcome adversity? And how do they assess the social impact of their businesses to make ethical, principle-based decisions? This session is not about liberal arts as mere knowledge. It is an exploration of the essence of leadership — the kind that sustains corporate growth in a volatile world while guiding society toward a better future. Through concrete examples of real-world management decisions, this is a must-attend session for all leaders seeking to understand how true wisdom shapes enduring success.
As generative AI becomes deeply embedded in society, the public discourse has shifted — from “how to use it” to “how to create real value with it.” Yet, at the forefront of AI implementation, there remain tangible barriers that cannot be overcome by technology alone. In this session, we welcome three leaders shaping the future of AI: Mr. Uenoyama of PKSHA Technology, who drives Japan’s national AI strategy; Mr. Nagasaki of OpenAI Japan, who is helping define the global standard for AI; and Mr. Kizaki of NewsPicks Studios, who captures the cutting edge of our time through storytelling and media. Together, they will dive deep into the current state and future trajectory of AI’s social implementation. What concrete strategies can truly turn technology into value? How can Japan overcome its structural challenges in adopting AI? And ultimately, what kind of businesses and societies should we aim to create in the age beyond AI? This is a must-attend session for every leader who is serious about shaping Japan’s future in the AI era.
In 2025, Japan’s startup ecosystem finds itself in the eye of a major “rule change”: revisions to the listing criteria for the Growth Market. Is this change merely another hurdle — or an opportunity to raise market quality and attract overseas investors? This session will rigorously discuss the conditions under which Japan can produce the next Big IPO at this crucial inflection point. Speakers include: Mr. Nagai of Nomura Securities, who understands the market frontlines; Mr. Yuasa of Globis, offering a VC’s ecosystem-wide perspective; Mr. Mera of READYFOR and Mr. Miyata of Nstock, founders who are confronting non-linear growth in this new environment. From the viewpoints of the market, investors, and founders, we will examine the real impacts of the criteria change on capital strategy, incentive design, and growth plans — and explore fundamental strategies to produce Japan’s next unicorns and decacorns.
As technology advances, apps and streaming platforms have diversified entertainment experiences, while on the global stage, cross-border hits — led by K-POP — have become the new normal. For Japan’s rich and world-renowned content industry to move beyond its domestic stronghold and truly become a globally competitive force, what kinds of business model transformations and global strategies are now required? In this session, four innovators at the forefront of Japan’s entertainment industry — each breaking conventions with bold new challenges — come together: Mr. Nakagawa of ASOBISYSTEM, who continues to export Japanese culture worldwide; Mr. Osamu Suzuki, a legendary creator now leading his own startup; Ms. MEGUMI, who generates real-world cultural excitement through live experiences; and Mr. Yamada, who deeply understands how to connect Japan’s entertainment scene to global markets. Through their concrete challenges, strategies for global expansion, and visions for the future, this session will present a new path to global success for Japan’s entertainment industry and startup ecosystem.
Mr. Mikitani, who leads the Rakuten Group and continues to take on the major challenge of the mobile business, and Mr. Naito of Drecom, who has continuously created new ventures in the internet industry, come together for a special conversation. Moderated by Ms. Satoko Suzuki from For Startups, two of Japan’s leading entrepreneurs will discuss “Business Creation and Entrepreneurship that Shape the Future.” Through insights into Mr. Mikitani’s management philosophy, the source of his leadership in overcoming challenges, and Mr. Naito’s unique perspective, they will explore key questions such as: “Why take on this challenge now?” and “What do Japanese companies need to do to make their mark on the global stage?
Space development has entirely shifted from being a state-led "dream" to a massive, private-sector-driven "real business" phase. This transformation encompasses lunar transport, satellite constellations, and the utilization of Earth observation data. As global competition intensifies, where exactly does Japan's space industry stand today? This session gathers the top runners driving Japan's SpaceTech. The panel includes: Mr. Chuma of Mizuho Bank, who provides an overview of the space industry from a financial and market analysis perspective. Mr. Hakamada of ispace, who is tackling the ultimate challenge: private-sector-led lunar transport. Mr. Takada of Space Data, who is utilizing AI to analyze satellite data and advance the digital twinning of Earth. And Mr. Takada of JAXA, who serves as the command tower for Japan's space development, responsible for technology and industrial promotion. The session brings together leading experts from the fields of "Finance," "Lunar Exploration (Upstream)," "Data Utilization (Downstream)," and "National Strategy." They will engage in a candid discussion about the real-world "realities" of global space development and the "path to victory" that Japan must take to truly succeed on the world stage. The blueprint for Japan's next massive growth industry is here.
Deep Tech investment by VCs has increased tenfold over the past decade, now accounting for 30% of companies with a market capitalization of over 100 billion yen in the growth market. AI, Bio, Space, Quantum—Japan's next growth engine undoubtedly lies dormant within Academia (universities and research institutions). The question is: How can world-class research achievements be successfully converted into businesses that can win globally, continuously generating the next wave of growth industries? This session brings together an unparalleled lineup on the front lines of this grand and urgent challenge. The session will be moderated by Mr. Nagata of UntroD, a leader in Deep Tech investment across Japan and Asia. The speakers include Professor Ishikawa of the Institute of Science Tokyo (Tokyo Tech & TMDU), Japan's most powerful comprehensive science university—newly established in 2024 through the merger of Tokyo Institute of Technology and Tokyo Medical and Dental University—who spearheads the social implementation of world-class research. He is joined by Mr. Yamamoto, who has been at the forefront of the social implementation of Japanese science and technology for over 20 years as the TLO (Technology Licensing Office) head at the University of Tokyo and RIKEN. These professionals will explore the potential and reality of Deep Tech that will shape Japan's future.
In this unscripted public consultation session, high-momentum young entrepreneurs will directly address their most pressing real-world challenges regarding business models and organizational structure to Mr. Kameyama, Chairman of DMM, who has overseen countless successful ventures. Expect sharp insights and advice that cuts straight to the core, delivered live by Chairman Kameyama. This is a serious, frontline business discussion packed with learning and inspiration. Whether you are an entrepreneur or anyone involved in business creation, this session is a must-see!
~ This session will be conducted in English ~ AI is no longer just an efficiency tool; it has become a force that redefines the entire Go-To-Market (GTM) strategy. Can AI truly create the "ultimate customer touchpoint"? In this session, we welcome Lena, who is on the front lines in Silicon Valley experiencing the strategic shift from PLG (Product-Led Growth) to SLG (Sales-Led Growth) at Notion, and Mr. Shimizu of ZEALS, who is challenging the global market from Japan. We will discuss the differences between AI adoption in global markets versus Japan, explore the latest trends in Silicon Valley, and introduce the "next generation of work" realized by Notion AI and Omakase.ai Voice with specific demonstrations. As the future vision of "Agentic teams"—where AI and humans collaborate—becomes a reality, we will explore what remains uniquely human in an AI-saturated world. Join us as we seek the answer for the next-generation GTM strategy.
Two years ago, a startup took the pitch stage at GRIC 2023. The "unique brilliance" (Isai) they demonstrated has since transformed into a global sensation, moving LVMH and captivating the world at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity. To open GRIC 2025, this session welcomes Takamaya Matsuda, Co-CEO of HERALBONY, to explore the story behind their dramatic ascent and trace the path that proved Japan's unique perspective can be a winning asset on the global stage. Why did they succeed? Was this global enthusiasm a mere coincidence, or a replicable strategy? Tim Rowe, CEO of CIC, a firm believer in global innovation, will break down and analyze HERALBONY's success factors from an international viewpoint. Then, Yuichiro Shimizu, the host and organizer, will address the critical role of the ecosystem in generating "the second and third HERALBONY" from Japan. Where the "passion of the doers" intersects with a "global perspective," GRIC 2025 OFFLINE DAY kicks off with this pivotal session, aimed at every challenger striving for the world stage.
The above information is subject to change without notice.
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