When the best of Japanese creativity and American entrepreneurial skill join forces, unimagined business opportunities occur.

Each year,  in cooperation with the Stanford University US-Asia Technology Management Center,  the Japan Society of Northern California shines a spotlight on these enterprising forces and the resulting opportunities.

The 2013 Innovation Symposium will:

• Recognize a Japanese and an American company for their seminal innovation, imaginative vision and commercial execution.
• Explore distinctive applications of entrepreneurship within two major Japanese corporations, drawing on investigative reporting of respected journalists.
• Share insights from two legendary VC founders, one from Japan and one from Silicon Valley, about revolutionary models they have established to identify and develop dynamic entrepreneurs.
• Honor U.S. Ambassador to Japan, John V. Roos, for championing innovation and entrepreneurship.

Who should attend?

• Business executives and professional service providers conducting or considering Japan – U.S. business
• Businesses, professionals, strategic planners, academics, students, and journalists looking for bold new opportunities
• Those seeking to honor John V. Roos
• Capital raising organizations interested in identifying targets of opportunity
• Students, educators, VCs, and others pursuing disruptive new programs to create entrepreneurs
• Anyone interested in cultural dynamics and/or the latest developments in Japan – U.S. innovation and entrepreneurship

Attendees will gain a perspective into Japan – U.S. innovation and business creation, including the views of VC visionaries, not available elsewhere.  Attendees will further obtain unique insights into the challenges and choices facing potentially world-changing companies as they commercialize significant innovations.

During and after the Innovation Symposium, attendees will have an unmatched opportunity to network with thought-provoking peers located at the intersection of Japanese creativity and American entrepreneurial skill.

Please go here for more information.

2012 Award winners

2011 Award winners