Umai Japan Inc. Granted the Title of Business Ventures Originating from GU
Gifu University certifies companies as "Business ventures originating from GU" with the aim of returning the results of its research and academic achievements to society.
Gifu University has newly certified Umai Japan Inc. (hereinafter "Umai Japan") as "Business Ventures Originating from GU" and held a title-awarding ceremony on July 9, 2026.
Umai Japan is a startup company originating from Gifu University, established in 2023 under the mission of "revitalizing agriculture through regional collaboration and sharing 'Japan Quality' with the world." The company owns and operates its own farmland and manages the entire value chain from production to sales. It has also launched the "Umai" brand, which emphasizes stable supply and high quality, and is actively engaged not only in domestic sales but also in exports to overseas markets. Its signature product, "Umai KAKI" Fuyu persimmons, a specialty of Gifu Prefecture, is sold through a variety of channels, including department store midsummer gift catalogs, online shops, and Japan's hometown tax donation reward programs. The brand has already gained recognition internationally, including being selected for service in Japan Airlines (JAL) International First Class, and is expanding with a view toward global markets. The company aims to establish Japanese agricultural products as globally recognized brands.
The ceremony was attended by Mr. SUGIMOTO Ryota, President and CEO of Umai Japan and a student entrepreneur currently enrolled at Gifu University. President YOSHIDA Kazuhiro of Gifu University presented him with the certificate conferring the title of Business Ventures Originating from GU.
During the discussion session following the ceremony, participants exchanged views on the company's business operations, the background and ingenuity behind its entrepreneurial journey and product development, and its future business prospects. The discussion also included a presentation of "Umai KAKI Fuyu Nectar," one of Umai Japan's flagship products.
President Yoshida commented: "We hope to continue our relationship with Umai Japan through collaboration in joint research and the utilization of the University's resources, including its facilities and human capital, and we look forward to seeing the company achieve even greater growth in the future."
With this latest certification, the total number of companies recognized as Business Ventures Originating from GU has reached 14. Gifu University will continue to strengthen its support for startup companies originating from the university and related initiatives in order to transform societal challenges into opportunities for creating new value.
