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NEC Social Entrepreneurship School
he NEC Social Entrepreneurship School is Japan’s first initiative dedicated to supporting young entrepreneurs tackling social issues. It was launched in FY2002 through a collaboration between NEC and the nonprofit organization ETIC 
(Entrepreneurial Training for Innovative Communities). By FY2024, 74 groups had completed the program, producing a wide range of entrepreneurs who are now active across multiple sectors.
Graduates of the program have gone on to generate sustained social impact, including influencing public policy at the local-government level. In addition, co-creation initiatives between alumni and NEC—such as joint research, pilot projects, and the development of new solutions—have further accelerated efforts to address social challenges.
In recognition of these achievements, the program was featured in 2025 as a leading example of collaboration between corporations and the social sector in “Promoting Collaboration with the Social Sector: A Guide to Cooperative Management,” published by the Japan Association of Corporate Executives (Keizai Doyukai).
Voices from participants
Alumnus 　Junto Ohki, CEO, ShuR Co.,Ltd
“The NEC Social Entrepreneurship School brings together people who are truly serious about changing society.
I joined at a stage when we were looking to scale our business and deliver services to even more people with hearing disabilities, and I gained invaluable insights into organizational management. The real journey begins after the program ends, and I will continue striving to create a brighter future for people with hearing disabilities.”
Partner organization　Tomoyuki Banno, NPO ETIC.
“Launched in 2002, the NEC Social Entrepreneurship School is a pioneer in supporting social entrepreneurs in Japan and remains one of the programs that has generated the greatest impact. It challenges participants to translate what they are deeply committed to achieving for society into viable businesses and systems that drive real change.
While the path is never easy, and profitability is often uncertain, we work hand in hand with mentor entrepreneurs and partner companies such as NEC to provide unwavering support to those who take on the challenge of creating new paths where none previously existed.”