TOPPAN Inc. has launched co-necto 2026, the tenth edition of its open innovation program, established in 2017. Bringing together startups and 25 corporate partners, the initiative supports business co-creation through proof-of-concept (PoC) projects. The program invites innovative solutions across 13 themes, aiming to accelerate commercialization and address social challenges.
Program Focus Areas
The program features 13 recruitment themes, including seven priority areas:
- Corporate Co-Creation: Solutions addressing TOPPAN and partner company business needs.
- Digital Certificates: Next-generation issuance and verification technologies.
- Content Authenticity: Technologies verifying digital content origins.
- Healthcare Data: Secure data utilization and privacy protection.
- AI and Rights Protection: Countermeasures against AI-generated fakes and content misuse.
- Tamper-Evident Imaging: Technologies ensuring image and video authenticity.
- Agriculture: Workforce matching and sustainable farming solutions.
Six additional themes cover marketing, commerce, customer service, retail innovation, smart cities, and healthcare services.
Eligibility and Application
Applicants must be legally incorporated businesses with an existing product or service suitable for PoC testing and the ability to collaborate with TOPPAN and its partners.
- Application Period: 1–31 October 2026
- Application Deadline: 31 October 2026
- Submission Requirements: Entry form and supporting screening materials
Selection Process
The selection process includes:
- Document Screening: Early to mid-November 2026, with results announced in late November.
- Online Pitch: Mid-December 2026, with results announced in late January 2027.
- PoC Planning: Shortlisted startups develop demonstration plans with TOPPAN and corporate partners.
Final acceptance depends on confirmation of PoC implementation. Evaluation focuses on innovation, social impact, growth potential, and alignment with corporate needs.
Program Benefits
Selected startups receive support including:
- Access to corporate facilities, resources, and PoC testing environments.
- Assistance with PoC planning, execution, and validation.
- Promotional and communication support.
- Opportunities for sales partnerships, development assistance, and joint commercialization.
Through the Shinketsugo! Fukuoka consortium, participants may also access demonstration environments in the Kyushu region, including commercial facilities, transportation infrastructure, and energy-related sites.
co-necto 2026 offers startups an opportunity to validate innovative solutions alongside TOPPAN and established corporate partners. By combining practical PoC support, industry expertise, and commercialization opportunities, the program helps startups develop scalable solutions while addressing real business and societal needs.