Sony Startup Acceleration Program

Sony startup Acceleration Program (SSAP) is an incubation ecosystem launched by Sony Corporation in 2016 to support the development of new business ideas. The program provides a platform that offers support from ideation and incubation to commercialization and expansion. SSAP aims to deliver innovation by helping develop promising business ideas proposed by Sony Group employees as well as external idea owners.

SSAP's offerings include:

• A structured process to guide idea owners from concept to launch

• Access to Sony's technology and resources

• Mentorship from Sony experts and external specialists

• Opportunities for business alliances and investments

• StartDash - A web application to help visualize and analyze business status

The program operates in multiple regions including Japan and Europe. As of April 2019, SSAP had established 14 businesses globally, including 12 in Japan and two in Europe. Some successful businesses launched through SSAP include toio (a toy platform), Qrio (smart lock), wena wrist (hybrid smartwatch), and Advagym (a smart solution for gyms).

In 2019, SSAP opened the program to idea owners outside Sony to enhance open innovation. The program aims to increase the number of innovators who can solve social issues through new products and services. SSAP's goal is to create a society where individuals can naturally identify challenges, develop solutions, and turn them into viable businesses. The program has also expanded to universities as part of its efforts to nurture entrepreneurship in future generations.