The Japan Science Promotion Foundation (JSPF) was established in 2010 with the aim of promoting and supporting research in science and technology, disseminating scientific thought, and contributing to the advancement of academia and culture in Japan.
Three Pillars of Our Activities
JSPF focuses on the following three core areas:
1.Support for research in science and technology
2.Support for fundamental science education
3.Promotion and enhancement of scientific thought
Current Challenges in Japan and the Importance of Science
Science was the driving force behind Japan’s modernization and economic rise, propelling the country to become a global economic powerhouse by the 1980s. This success was the direct result of Japan’s strategic focus on fundamental scientific and technological research.
However, since the late 1990s, economic stagnation and prolonged recession have exposed two critical weaknesses in Japan’s scientific and technological landscape, as highlighted in the White Paper on Science and Technology:
- Japan’s fundamental research level remains lower than that of major Western advanced nations.
- There is a lack of entrepreneurial and innovative talent capable of driving original ideas forward.
Human resources have always been the most valuable “soft asset” of any society, and in a resource-scarce country like Japan, people are the nation’s greatest resource. The development of young talent is especially crucial.
Recent education white papers from the Ministry of Education emphasize:
- Fostering creativity
- Developing scientific and technological talent
- Enhancing young people’s understanding and interest in science
To support this, the government is promoting multimedia-based learning environments, encouraging a broad audience—from youth to general society—to engage with science, thereby strengthening Japan’s social foundation for the 21st century.
JSPF’s Strategies and Future Prospects
To create a new industrial dynamism, explore new economic frontiers, and contribute as a global leader, Japan must focus on the advancement of science and technology that can become key industries.
JSPF is committed to:
Identifying emerging scientific and technological innovations
Fostering collaboration among industry, government, academia, and the public
Encouraging the creation and development of new businesses
Promoting partnerships between researchers, developers, and industries
Supporting entrepreneurship through dedicated initiatives
Key Initiatives
(A) Publication and distribution of future technology research and news (Exclusive to corporate members)
(B) Technology demonstration forums based on research expertise of JSPF researchers
(C) Educational seminars and certification programs for different levels of scientific proficiency
(D) Collaborative R&D initiatives with educational and research institutions to share research outcomes
Message from the Chairman
To our esteemed readers of “Business and Intellectual Property”, as well as our colleagues in corporations, government agencies, universities, and research institutions—thank you for your continued support and interest in our work.
In 2010, JSPF was reborn, marking what we consider the “first year” of a new era in Japan’s science promotion.
Our foundation was established at a critical moment—post-Lehman shock, when society was beginning to recover stability. Politically, it was also a time of change, with the Democratic Party defeating the Liberal Democratic Party, leading to high public expectations for the new government.
Looking at Japan’s present and future, we firmly believe that the greatest driver of economic revitalization is to establish and nurture Japan as a “science and technology powerhouse”.
With this conviction, leading scientists and researchers in advanced technology joined forces to establish JSPF. Key figures include:
Dr. Mitsuo Suzuki, former director of the Industrial Technology Institute of the Ministry of International Trade and Industry, former executive director of the Japan Industrial Technology Promotion Foundation (now JSPF’s advisor)
Dr. Nakami Watanabe, professor emeritus of Nagoya City University, a distinguished authority in anatomy and recipient of the Order of the Sacred Treasure, Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon
Dr. Hiroshi Takeda, professor emeritus of Fukuoka Women’s University, known for developing high molecular weight biomaterials
Dr. Hiroko Mizutani, former senior researcher at the National Institute of Radiological Sciences, expert in the effects of new fiber composites on the human body
Dr. Kanji Sasaki, professor emeritus of Showa Women’s University, developer of water-soluble electron-emitting composite systems
Dr. Takashi Yamazaki, professor emeritus at Kyoto University of Education and Kyoto Institute of Technology, specialized in atomic physics and clinical psychology at MIT
Dr. Hiroki Sawa, president of Suzuka University of Medical Science, vice-chairman of St. Therese Social Welfare Corporation, former senior official at the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare
These esteemed researchers and policymakers serve as board members and researchers of JSPF, leading our initiatives in promoting science and technology as a key national industry.
Furthermore, our foundation is actively researching AI-based cognitive functions modeled after the brainstem and its surrounding mechanisms to develop industries essential to Japan’s future.
With the support of these renowned scholars, experienced policymakers, and dedicated researchers, we are confident in paving the way for Japan’s scientific and technological future.
We sincerely appreciate your continued understanding, cooperation, and support in fulfilling the foundation’s social mission and vision.
September 3, 2010
Michiyo Furumiya
Chairman, Japan Science Promotion Foundation