Alumni News
Information for Alumni
Alumni News
Information for Alumni
The GTIE (Greater Tokyo Innovation Ecosystem)* Kickoff 2024 was held on Friday, May 31, 2024 at Tokyo Innovation Base (Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo). Many people involved in the university startup ecosystem attended the event, which was full of enthusiasm and strong public interest in university startups.
One of the sub-events was a debriefing session by participants of the GTIE Overseas Dispatch Program. Commentators gave advice to each presenter to help the young start-up entrepreneurs take a leap forward.
Yuko Eguchi took the stage as a participant who was dispatched to Melbourne through the "FY2023 Waseda Edge Global Talent Initiative - No Venture, No Victory" program.
This program is organized by Waseda University, supported by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology, for universities affiliated with GTIE, including the University of Tsukuba.
*GTIE is a platform designed to "nurture University Startups that can change the world" by universities in the Metropolitan area.
Yuko Eguchi, PhD, MBA
I gave a presentation focusing on the content of my business idea and my own ambition for it. Also, I explained how my business model had changed before and after the program in Melbourne, as well as what I had learned through the program, highlighting particularly memorable experiences.
My goal is to create a service that can be utilized globally. I participated in the Melbourne training program to build an international network and understand local needs through direct interaction.
[Insights]During the training, in addition to learning the basics of business, I was able to talk with actual startup CEOs every day and understand more clearly what it takes to be successful as a startup. The instructor's emphasis on the importance of "Small Wins" was particularly motivating, and I consistently keep this lesson in mind.
[Takeaways]The program offered numerous opportunities for both input and output, allowing me to make multiple presentations in a short timeframe. On the final day, I had the invaluable experience of presenting my business model to local venture capitalists. This experience enhanced my ability to articulate my ideas concisely and deliver compelling presentations.
Presenting at this debriefing session gave me a chance to reflect on my growth trajectory. I am deeply grateful for the support received during my time in Melbourne and feel a strong determination to meet the expectations set for me. The camaraderie with fellow entrepreneurs who share the same passion for societal improvement was inspiring. This experience reinforced the idea that collaboration is key, and I am honored to have been part of this supportive community.
Though challenges remain, the encouragement from those I met in Melbourne has been a great boost during difficult times. I aspire to deliver services that support patients and their families, with a vision of creating a society where anyone, anywhere, anytime can access meaningful healthcare.