Shota Morozumi
Founder
What motivated you to become a startup mentor?
As a VC based in Fukuoka, I wanted to contribute to startups here, particularly since Fukuoka city is a specially designated startup founding zone. There are many young people in Fukuoka city, especially when compared to other ordinance-designated cities. While entrepreneurs are always being born, there is a shortage of entrepreneurial know-how among youths. I think we can support young entrepreneurs and close that gap.
What field(s) would you consider your area of expertise?
Seed financing, financial support for early stage, advertising, alliance, events, and more.
What do you think you could help with the most as a mentor?
I can give advice regarding advertising and give feedback on capital policy. I can also give tips on business models and products.
What makes you excited to invest in a company?
We will invest in businesses that are poised to change the world over the course of the next few years. Specifically, businesses that replace the inconvenient and inefficient structure of society with original products that don’t imitate other companies.
Do you have advice for someone who is interested in growing his/her business?
Now that smartphones are so popular, and technologies such as block chains and virtual currencies are beginning to penetrate the market it is the best time to make changes. There currently exists a great opportunity to change the social structure, so be sure to challenge the big things.
Do you have any advice on effective ways to expand your business network? (Attending specific conferences, going to events, etc.)
Attending events is helpful. If you don’t just join events but also organize them you will have an even greater advantage.
Is there anything you think new startups should know?
New startups should learn about Fukuoka’s startup community as well as startup communities in other countries.
Which Fukuoka coffee shop is your favorite for out of office meetings?
Personally, I like Manu coffee shop.
What's the easiest way for people to reach out to you?
They can check my Twitter @ryokado.