Gifu University Entrepreneurs' Association Inaugural General Meeting Held
On Saturday, October 4, 2025, the inaugural general meeting of the Gifu University Entrepreneurs' Association1 was held at the OKB Gifu University Plaza on campus. This association was established with the aim of fostering cross-generational and cross-industry exchange among entrepreneurs who studied at Gifu University, creating new value through mutual networking, and contributing to the development of both their alma mater and the local community.
A total of 65 participants attended the event, including President YOSHIDA Kazuhiro of Gifu University, university executives, alumni, and business leaders. During the meeting, President Yoshida, who serves as the honorary chairman of the association, remarked: "Entrepreneurs who graduated from Gifu University are highly regarded nationwide for their sound management. You are valuable assets to the university, and through collaboration with the university, we hope to generate new value for the region."
Following this, Vice Chairman OGURI Michihiro (Chairman of Gifu Zohen Co., Ltd.) expressed his commitment to contributing to regional development through collaboration with the university and nurturing the next generation, under the association's guiding principle: "Opening the future through challenge and co-creation."
In the subsequent special lecture, Mr. SUGIMOTO Ryota, CEO of Umai Japan Inc. and a fourth-year student in the Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, gave a speech titled "Bringing Japanese Agricultural Products to the World!" His presentation resonated strongly with attendees, highlighting the passion and ambition of a young entrepreneur.
During the networking reception, Chairman SUGIYAMA Mikio (Senior Advisor of Gifu Shimbun Newspaper) gave opening remarks, sharing memories from the post-war era when the university was still Gifu Agricultural Technical College. He stated:"Gifu University's development into a comprehensive university is the result of the aspirations of our predecessors. The establishment of the Gifu University Entrepreneurs' Association is a continuation of that spirit. This long-awaited network among entrepreneurs has finally taken shape. Let us all work together to build up this association."
The reception continued in a warm and friendly atmosphere, with connections forming across generations and industries. The event concluded with a toast by Mr. TAKENAKA Toichi (former Chairman of Astellas Pharma Inc.), further deepening the sense of unity among participants.
The Gifu University Entrepreneurs' Association will continue to promote member interaction and collaborative activities with the university and local community, guided by its principle: "Opening the future through challenge and co-creation."
1) English name is tentative.
