Asics picks first intake for accelerator programme

31/07/2019
Japanese sports brand Asics has selected four start-ups to take part in its accelerator programme. It will now work with them on test marketing of their ideas, with the aim of bringing them to life by 2020.

They were chosen from a final shortlist of eight companies, all of which had the opportunity to pitch their ideas to the jury during a demo day at the Asics Japan headquarters in Tokyo. They were assessed based on two main criteria: vision and feasibility. 

The four start-ups selected are:

Elyza Inc., which proposes the development of a sales/demand forecasting system that uses artificial intelligence;
No New Fold Studio Inc., which wants to create smart running shoes that can measure foot movement while running;
Biima Inc., which is developing interactive sports activities for children under 10 and their parents;
Runtrip Inc., which aims to create a running community that connects local workers.