Call for Grant Applications –
Youth Innovation EXPO Contest
Application Deadline:
14 March 2025
About Organisation
The Youth Innovation EXPO is a global pitch contest held at the Osaka Kansai Expo, managed by the Student Expo Project Team Asunowa of Cultural Capital Creation Research Co., Ltd. The initiative provides young innovators with a platform to present groundbreaking ideas that contribute to a brighter future for the planet. The event fosters collaboration, creativity, and entrepreneurship among students worldwide, offering them the opportunity to showcase their projects to international audiences.
The competition is designed to nurture the next generation of leaders by enabling them to develop innovative solutions aligned with key global challenges. Participants are encouraged to propose transformative ideas across diverse fields, including technology, sustainability, and social impact. Through this initiative, students receive exposure to industry experts, access to mentorship, and opportunities to connect with global enterprises and policymakers.
The EXPO serves as an incubator for emerging talent, offering winners financial support, networking opportunities, and a chance to present their projects at one of the world’s largest expos. By supporting young changemakers, the competition strengthens the link between education, research, and industry, empowering students to turn their ideas into impactful, real-world solutions that address pressing global challenges.
About the Grant
The Youth Innovation EXPO grant aims to support students in developing and presenting innovative projects that align with the theme, “Creating a brighter future for the Earth with the power of young people.” Participants can select from six presentation themes, including cultural co-creation, future mobility, health, biodiversity, and education. The initiative fosters creativity, problem-solving, and forward-thinking solutions, encouraging students to explore new ideas and implement their vision.
Regional winners of the competition will receive an invitation to the main event at the Osaka Kansai Expo on July 19, 2025. Travel expenses, including economy-class airfare and accommodations, will be covered for up to three team members. Finalists will present their projects at the official EXPO Messe venue, gaining exposure to global investors, researchers, and industry leaders.
The main tournament winners will receive the Grand Prize, including a certificate, monetary awards, and collaboration opportunities with corporate partners. Additional Excellence Awards and Special Awards will be given to outstanding projects, offering mentoring support and industry recognition. Through this initiative, the Youth Innovation EXPO seeks to nurture young entrepreneurs and visionaries, helping them translate their ideas into actionable solutions with long-term global impact.
Who can Apply?
The Youth Innovation EXPO is open to students from high schools, vocational schools, technical colleges, junior colleges, universities, and graduate programs. Researchers and individuals within one year of starting a business are also eligible to apply. Participants can join individually or as part of a team, provided they meet the eligibility criteria. Proof of enrollment, such as a student ID, may be required during the application process.
Applicants must propose innovative projects within the given themes and pass the first round of screening to qualify for regional pitch contests. High school students need parental consent to participate. Teams must ensure that their members do not belong to multiple groups unless explicitly permitted by the organizers.
Individuals affiliated with the event’s organizers, including employees and their families, are not eligible to apply. Residents of countries restricted by law or individuals associated with anti-social groups will be disqualified. The competition seeks participants who are passionate about innovation, sustainability, and social change, encouraging diverse perspectives and interdisciplinary solutions to address pressing global challenges.
How to Apply?
Applicants must submit their project proposals along with supporting documents, including proof of student status, a team or individual profile, and a detailed presentation plan. After passing the initial screening, shortlisted participants will compete in regional tournaments before advancing to the final event.
Application Deadline
The registration deadline varies by location:
- Overseas: March 14, 2025
- Japan (West Japan Tournament in Kyoto): March 16, 2025
- Other regions in Japan: May 8, 2025
Last Date To Apply
All applications must be submitted by March 14, 2025, for international participants. Japanese applicants have specific regional deadlines, with the latest being May 8, 2025.
Grant Amount
Winners will receive a stipend covering travel and accommodation for the main event. Grand Prize winners will also receive a certificate, monetary rewards, and mentorship opportunities with industry experts and corporate partners.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
