SHIBUYA QWS Opens Entries for Seed Support Pitch Award 2027

SHIBUYA QWS Opens Applications for "QWS STARTUP AWARD 2027"

Shibuya Scramble Square Co., Ltd., the operator of the co-creation facility "SHIBUYA QWS," has announced the launch of the "QWS STARTUP AWARD 2027," a pitch award designed to support the next generation of startups. Applications for participants officially opened on October 13, 2026.

Application Guidelines and Prizes

The award is open to seed and pre-seed startups that are either already incorporated or planning to incorporate during January 2027. There are no restrictions regarding business domain, years since founding, the existence of a product, or past fundraising experience. In addition to a 1 million yen activity support grant, the Grand Prize winner will receive a special advertising package in the Shibuya area (valued at 2 million yen) and a 6-month SHIBUYA QWS membership.

Judging Panel and Support Features

The judging panel for this award consists exclusively of angel investors and experts with extensive executive experience. Building on a track record of supporting over 490 startups and projects since its opening in 2019, the program goes beyond a conventional contest. It provides multifaceted support for startup growth by offering opportunities for business alliances and proof-of-concept (PoC) experiments with QWS member companies and local governments.

Schedule and Future Outlook

Applications will close on January 12, 2027. Following document screening and online interviews, the final judging session is scheduled to take place on March 9, 2027. The organizers are currently seeking corporate sponsors to co-promote startup support and aim to further invigorate the ecosystem.