Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently asked questions (FAQ) have been summarized below.
Disruptive challenge
- Regarding Application Eligibility
- Regarding Scope and Contents of Support
- Regarding the Application
- Regarding Selection and Evaluation Criteria
- Regarding the Amount of Support
- Regarding Rights Protection
- Regarding the Cooperative Partners
- Regarding Intellectual Property Rights
Generation Award
Disruptive Challenge
■ Regarding Application Eligibility
What kind of people are you looking for?
As part of the Disruptive Challenge, we are looking for individuals who can create disruptive value without fear of failure in the ICT field. We want people who show persistance even in the face of failure and won't back down from a challenge.
Is it possible to apply to the INNO-vation program as a group rather than as an individual?
You can apply both individually or as a group, please check the application guidelines before applying.
・In events where multiple people work on a project, it is important that the roles of each individual are clearly defined and are not to overlap.
・In events where the applicant(s) belong to an organization, it is important submit a consent form from the organization.
I belong to a company but they may deny consent to my application to this program. If I pass the final selection, should I withdraw my application?
It is important to recieve written consent after the screening process from your organization to participate in this program. If necessary, the executing agency will assist in coordination with your organization in obtaining a consent form.
I've applied to the program in the past, can I apply again? If so, can I apply to continue the same project of a previous application as my proposal?
Yes, you can apply. Please check the application guidelines before applying.
I have a good idea but not the means to develop the technology. Is it still possible to apply?
Essential requirements for applying to the program are:
・ As the originator of the proposal, the person should independently promote technological development in order to implement the proposal. When working with multiple people, their roles should not overlap.
・ Must be able to carry out their responsibilities of development throughout the entire period of the program.
As it is possible to apply in groups, collaboration with others who can help with the technical aspects of development is possible in order to implement the idea.
■Regarding Scope and Contents of Support
Are the contents of the program limited to "ICT"?
It is possible to apply with a proposal that has any link with ICT. There is no problem if the link is "in ICT", "for ICT", "of ICT", etc.
What does it mean to be in the scope of ICT?
These days, ICT covers a broad spectrum of ideas. Please think broadly in your proposal.
Is it possible to apply even if the content says "will not be implemented within the technical development period"?
This program aims to support growing technology"from seed to bud". You can apply.
Before applying, is it possible to apply even if the technology is in development in some form?
You can apply by demonstrating what new achievements you wish to achieve throughout the program.
"I have a patent and a sample of the project, but can't afford promotion". Can I apply to use the financial support for promotion?
Since the aim of this project is not to bring products to market, those applications intended for promotional purposes will not be accepted. However, if the goal is to aim for better technological results of previously achieved technology, it is possible to apply.
■Regarding the Application
Is only one application per person accepted?
It is possible to apply to any number of proposals at the time of application, including application to multiple parts of the INNO-vation program (e.g, Disruptive Challenge and Grand Challenge). In these cases, please enter one application per proposal for each respective department.
There is no section in the application form regarding expenses related to technical development. Does the development cost matter at the time of application?
One way to register the development costs is to include it as part of the proposal as part of the application. It is appreciated if the information is as specific as possible.
What should I do if I need to amend the files of my application?
Any changes to the application is possible during the application period through email. However, following the deadline it is not possible to alter any contents of the application.
Will materials sent at the time of application be returned?
Any materials submitted as part of the application will not be returned. In addition, in the interest of protecting intellectual property, the executing agency will be responsible for destroying data related to the application after the program ends to prevent any leaks (crushed, burned, etc.).
I am considering applying for a patent. In that event, what will be done to ensure confidentiality if the proposal contains one of my patents.
Since the executing agency and supervisors are contractually obliged to keep all information gained from the program strictly confidential, this information will not be leaked to the outside world. Following the program, we will take strict measures to continue to protect the intellectual property of the applicant(s).
■Regarding Selection and Evaluation Criteria
What are the selection and evaluation criteria of this program?
Within this program, those proposals which indicate strong will to take on the proposals and its challenges will be rated highly, rather than purely by experience and ability. Those that propose a solution or idea for achieving a given task, even if it fails, will be highly evaluated.
The evaluation criteria as stated in the application guidelines are as follows:
Originality
If the applicant demonstrates ideas and characteristics befitting a person capable of taking on the disruptive technical challenges.
Self-Determination
If the applicant possesses strong and determinative attributes that do not expect justification from others.
Clarity and Understanding
If the applicant has a clear understanding of the problems, solutions, and possibilities.
Indomitable Will
If the applicant possesses the indomitable will and conviction of facing the challenges and moving forward until success is realized.
Can I recieve feedback on the selection results?
We will not give feedback to those who have not been selected for the program. However, to announce the results of selection, we will contact applicants via the registered e-mail given at the time of the application.
What happens if the results are not achieved in the development period?
This program does not necessarily seek results. However, if results are not achieved, it is necessary to record the outcome of the program as well as indicate next steps in surpassing that failure.
Are there specific criteria for evaluation of the final results? I.e., 'what makes a successful project'; is this guideline provided?
We will evaluate whether the path to feasibility of the technological development has been established. If failure during this process helps pave the way to clearer direction, it is highly evaluated. Conversely, if the feasibility of the technology remains vague and without direction, it is rated lower.
■ Regarding the Amount of Support
Is it possible to receive one year of labor costs for concentrated technological development?
It is possible. We are looking for the best solution depending on those who pass the selection process. In addition, when paying personnel expense to your institution, calculations will be made based on income of the previous year (to protect intellectual property, we will not pay highly desired amounts equivalent to the purchase of the product as-is). In addition, in order to pay for actual working hours, a time log of activities or development diary may be required.
What happens if I purchase an item for the development of technology after the development period ends?
We will confirm technical development contents, purchase contents, and purpose individually.
Within this program, each case will be considered individually for expenses made, not only regarding the purchasing of goods related to development. These will not be uniformly decided, but will be custom for each individual.
For items purchased with the funding of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, items other than consumables will be regarded and managed as national assets even after the end of the program, in accordance to the rules of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communication's competitive funding.
Are patent expenses and patent attorney fees included in the maximum support amount of 3 million yen?
Yes. The executing agency will also provide personal support for patent applications.
Is the cost for attending meetings, etc. included in the technical development cost?
This will be considered on a case by case basis, including costs and how to attend given meetings. The executing agency will arrange the most suitable method for finalists.
■Regarding Rights Protection
Is it permissable to commercialize products after the development period based on the results of this program?
It is possible. One of the most important aspects of this program is that the 'invention belongs to the inventor'. Therefore, you exercise that right as well as have the opportunity to co-develop the product with one of our cooperative partners. In this case, the cooperative partner may have rights to commercialize but the executing agency will provide support to ensure intellectual property rights retain with the inventor.
By applying to this program, I am worried that others will see my ideas and steal them.
Since the executing agency and supervisors are contractually obliged to keep all information gained from the program strictly confidential, this information will not be leaked to the outside world. In addition, information will never be transmitted to the Cooperative Partners without the explicit consent of the involved party.
In addition, while ideas will not be stolen, it cannot be guaranteed that others do not have similar ideas. The security of the applicant will be having "submitted an idea to the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications". Also, when working with our Cooperative Partners, we will take strict measures to secure evidence regarding your application data and keep a record of all disclosures of contents.
Will all applicants' ideas be disclosed to the Cooperative Partners?
We will not disclose information to the Cooperative Partners unless given explicit consent from the individual. All disclosures will be confirmed prior.
Do you have a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) with the Cooperative Partners?
The executing agency has NDAs with the Cooperative Partners. In addition, it is recommended that applicants construct an NDA agreement with the Cooperative Partners when necessary in distribution of information during the matching program.
I think the Cooperative Partners joined the program for profit. By what process are they selected?
Cooperative Partners must exhibit a full understanding of the meaning of the program, and place high value on cooperating with those who wish to take on technological challenges. Upon this understanding, the Cooperative Partner signs an NDA with the executing agency and is welcomed as a member of the Cooperative Partners. Furthermore, each individual organization upon reaching a matching agreement with a developer are also bound by individual NDAs between them.
■ Regarding the Cooperative Partners
What should I do if I would like to become a part of the Cooperative Partners?
inno_vation*ml.soumu.go.jp (Please contact us by replacing * with @.)
Where can I find more details about the Cooperative Partners?
Please refer to the "Cooperative Partners" page.
What should I do if I want to provide support as a company?
It is up to each company. We would be grateful if those companies that have members apply to the program can provide a suitable environment to concentrate on technology development as an affiliated organization.
There is a lot of information regarding the Cooperative Partners, but is there discussion/opportunity for business creation?
This program began as part of the national technology development support fund (competitive grants) system. Within it, the Cooperative Partners is a system to expand this financing system. Although the maximum amount of support from the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications is 3 million yen, intellectual property rights are retained by the developer themselves. As a result, it is entirely possible to develop the project into a business after the program itself ends.
Upon hearing about "Cooperative Partners", the image suggests that the results will be delivered to these companies. Is this necessary in this program?
Even when working with a company, the "inventions belong to the inventor" statement still applies. That is, the intellectual property will remain in possession of the developer themselves. If a problem regarding this occurs, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications and the executing agency (including lawyer representation) will work together to protect the developer. On that premise, alliances are made with the Cooperative Partners. In addition, the executing agency will provide a support system to ensure that developers are able to take on the tasks in a good environment.
■ Regarding Intellectual Property Rights
What should I think about intellectual property rights?
・Regarding project intellectual property rights.When an intellectual property is reasonably understood to be produced with the accompaniment of the country's budget, based on civil law, that intellectual property becomes the property of the country, and when taking into account Article 19 of the Industrial Technology Entertainment Act (Japanese Law #44, April 19th, 2008), the agreement between the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) and the executing agency, as well as the executing agency and the developer, it can be deduced that the rights belong to the developer.
・Furthermore, if it is difficult to attribute the intellectual property rights to the developer (due to employment type), the circumstances will be handled on an individual basis.
Generation Award
■ Regarding Application Eligibility
What kind of people are you looking for?
Generation Award
In the ICT field, we award
・A small but interesting idea that nobody has conceived before
・Cutting edge technologies, even without knowing the best way to utilize them
・Discoveries you wish to make reality
and more!
Is it possible to apply to the INNO-vation program as a group rather than as an individual?
You can apply both individually or as a group, please check the application guidelines before applying.
I belong to a company but they may deny consent to my application to this program. If I win an award, should I withdraw my application?
When a part of an institution or company, please obtain consent before proceeding with the applicaiton.
I've applied to the program in the past, can I apply again? If so, can I apply to continue the same project of a previous application as my proposal?
Yes, you can apply. Please check the application guidelines before applying.
I have a good idea but not the means to develop the technology. Is it still possible to apply?
In the Generation Award category, it is possible to apply with ideas only. Please find a suitable development partner in our matching program.
■Regarding Scope and Contents of Support
Are the contents of the program limited to "ICT"?
It is possible to apply with a proposal that has any link with ICT. There is no problem if the link is "in ICT", "for ICT", "of ICT", etc.
What does it mean to be in the scope of ICT?
These days, ICT covers a broad spectrum of ideas. Please think broadly in your proposal.
Is it possible to apply even if the development has taken some form before the application?
Please apply as much as you can of the remaining ideas to the award.
■Regarding the Application
Is only one application per person accepted?
It is possible to apply to any number of proposals at the time of application, including application to multiple parts of the INNO-vation program (e.g, Disruptive Challenge and Grand Challenge). In these cases, please enter one application per proposal for each respective department.
What should I do if I need to amend the files of my application?
Any changes to the application is possible during the application period through email. However, following the deadline it is not possible to alter any contents of the application.
Will materials sent at the time of application be returned?
Any materials submitted as part of the application will not be returned. In addition, in the interest of protecting intellectual property, the executing agency will be responsible for destroying data related to the application after the program ends to prevent any leaks (crushed, burned, etc.).
I am considering applying for a patent. In that event, what will be done to ensure confidentiality if the proposal contains one of my patents.
Since the executing agency and Cooperative Partners are contractually obliged to keep all information gained from the program strictly confidential, this information will not be leaked to the outside world. However, since the contents of the application will be disclosed to the Cooperative Partners, please do not apply if you wish this information to remain completely confidential.
■Regarding Selection and Evaluation Criteria
What are the selection and evaluation criteria of this program?
Through cooperation with the INNO-vation Cooperative Partners
In the ICT field, we award
・A small but interesting idea that nobody has conceived before
・Cutting edge technologies, even without knowing the best way to utilize them
・Discoveries you wish to make reality
Judges of the group of the Cooperative Partners will evaluate each application based on their respective criteria.
Can I recieve feedback on the selection results?
We will not give feedback to those who have no been selected for the program. However, to announce the results of selection, we will contact applicants via the registered e-mail given at the time of the application.
■Regarding Rights Protection
Is it permissable to commercialize products after the development period based on the results of this program?
It is possible. One of the most important aspects of this program is that the 'invention belongs to the inventor'. Therefore, you exercise that right as well as have the opportunity to co-develop the product with one of our cooperative partners. In this case, the cooperative partner may have rights to commercialize but the executing agency will provide resource/financial support to ensure intellectual property rights retain with the inventor.
By applying to this program, I am worried that others will see my ideas and steal them.
Since the executing agency and Cooperative Partners are contractually obliged to keep all information gained from the program strictly confidential, this information will not be leaked to the outside world. However, since the contents of the application will be disclosed to the Cooperative Partners, please do not apply if you wish this information to remain completely confidential.
Will all applicants' ideas be disclosed to the Cooperative Partners?
As the judges of the proposals are the Cooperative Partners themselves, all information will be disclosed to the Cooperative Partners.
Do you have a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) with the Cooperative Partners?
The NDAs of intellectual property and selection of awards are not linked.
I think the Cooperative Partners joined the program for profit. By what process are they selected?
Cooperative Partners must exhibit a full understanding of the meaning of the program, and place high value on cooperating with those who wish to take on technological challenges. Upon this understanding, the Cooperative Partner signs an NDA with the executing agency and is welcomed as a member of the Cooperative Partners. Furthermore, each individual organization upon reaching a matching agreement with a developer are also bound by individual NDAs between them.
■Regarding the Cooperative Partners
What should I do if I would like to become a part of the Cooperative Partners?
inno_vation*ml.soumu.go.jp (Please contact us by replacing * with @.)
Where can I find more details about the Cooperative Partners?
Please refer to the "Cooperative Partners" page.
What should I do if I want to provide support as a company?
It is up to each company. We would be grateful if those companies that have members apply to the program can provide a suitable environment to concentrate on technology development as an affiliated organization.
There is a lot of information regarding the Cooperative Partners, but is there discussion/opportunity for business creation?
If you think the prize-winning award is able to be 'promoted' as a business, it is possible to develop it into a business.
■ Regarding Intellectual Property Rights
What should I think about intellectual property rights?
Since the contents of the application will be disclosed to the Cooperative Partners, please do not apply if you wish this information to remain completely confidential.