Ichiro Kimura

President & CEO

What does your startup do?

We offer Appabrik, a mobile app development and management platform that runs on iPhone and Android. With Appabrik, our users can quickly develop and operate mobile apps without any programming knowledge. In addition, since it is specifically designed for people who do not currently have app planning skills, it can be used by a variety of people, including those who want to create mobile apps or start a consulting business related to them.

What problem are you trying to solve?

The world is full of apps that are far from ideal for various reasons, including the lack of knowledge, past customs, and limited budgets. We utilize our technical and organizational skills to help provide essential value to our clients who want to take their business one step further by using mobile apps.

Why did you choose Fukuoka?

The main reason I founded the company in Fukuoka is because this city has cultivated such a positive atmosphere for startups. We feel really supported and encouraged, which allows us to focus on our business.

What do you think about Fukuoka's startup community?

The community is still growing, and it is full of great information and people from diverse backgrounds. In Fukuoka, it is simple for us to interact with key people that will be able to help our business. The community also allows us to find startup friends, advisors, and investors very easily.

How has Fukuoka City helped your startup?

Fukuoka City has given us the opportunity to participate in a wide range of events and programs. These aren’t just local events either, some of them involve startup cities around the world such as Taipei, London, and San Francisco. Through Fukuoka City we have been able to meet beneficial partners and really get our name out there.

Do you have advice for people considering doing a startup in Fukuoka? Anything you wish you’d known before starting your company here?