MITOU Junior Photo in 2019


What’s MITOU Junior?

MITOU Junior is a half-year-long program to enhance young innovative creators in Japan. This program, initiated by the MITOU Foundation in 2016 and originating from the government-backed MITOU Program, has received support from various companies and organizations since its inception. With that support we offer the following benefits.


Mentoring

Creators will be able to learn from mentors and other MITOU Program graduates, like professors and tech founders, who are at the forefront of technology.

Watch on YouTube


Financial Support

Each group will be eligible to receive up to 500K Yen as funding for development.

Support developing projects at CASE Shinjuku.

Place to develop

If necessary, places to develop will be provided. And transportation and accommodation expenses for participating in events like Maker Faire Tokyo will also be covered.

Booth exhibition at Maker Faire Tokyo 2023.

Award outstanding performance

Creators who have shown their outstanding performance during MITOU Junior program get an outstanding performance award. The award is highly recognized for Admissions Office of several universities, including Keio University SFC, Kindai University and Tokyo Metropolitan University.

Award ceremony for graduates of the MITOU Junior program at The University of Tokyo.

Media & Awards

Our alumni are creating new values after the program as well. Here are a few examples.


Projects Showcase

Up to now 860 applications are submitted to our MITOU Junior program, and we support 111 projects and 136 creators. (Acceptance rate: 10-13%)

Example projects, accepted and boosted by our program, are as follows.

2023's projects

by Noritada Yamamoto (Mentor: Rina Kotake)

Voice Genius - AI x ゆっくり解説

Abstract

Voice Genius is software that utilizes AI, such as the recently popular ChatGPT, to create fully automated, slow-paced explanatory videos. It generates videos from titles and articles, transforming data and articles that may be difficult to understand in text form into familiar video formats. The generated videos can be viewed on YouTube or TikTok.

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by Rekka Igumi (Mentor: Kakeru Ishii)

A9N: HALを用いて移植容易性を実現するマイクロカーネル

Abstract

A9N is a kernel and software constructed using HAL and a microkernel. This combination provides high portability, stability, and scalability. Unlike the increasingly complex and large modern operating systems, the sufficiently small A9N aids in understanding the core concepts, making OS learning more accessible.

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by Kai Tanaka (Mentor: Yu Ukai)

AI 4コマメーカー

Abstract

"AI 4-Panel Manga Maker" is a web application that utilizes AI to create 4-panel comics from your drawings. By sketching as if doodling, the application recognizes your drawings and generates a story using GPT-4. This allows you to easily create 4-panel comics without the need to consider story structure. Create your own unique 4-panel comic with your drawings!

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by Sota Ueda (Mentor: Ryo Suzuki)

Be Free - 話せない人が自由に会話できるアプリ

Abstract

Be Free is an application designed for individuals who are unable to communicate verbally. Users can select a conversation scenario, and the app will recognize the other party's voice. AI assists in constructing responses, which are then delivered vocally. This project aims to provide useful service insights for those living without a voice.

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by Mona Sako (Mentor: Masato Bito)

人名攻撃力表示装置 - 梅田三世 (改)

Abstract

Umeda III is a device that displays a person's name and attack power on a monocle-type display when you look at their face. By wearing this device, it facilitates and enhances communication, especially in situations where you do not remember the other person's name. The displayed information can be viewed, added, updated, and deleted through a web application.

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by Ken Shibata (Mentor: Rhythm Sakamoto)

Hopefully Automatic Train Operation: 没入感を高める!? Nゲージ列車 全自動走行システム

Abstract

HATO is a fully automatic operation system for N gauge trains that aims to immerse users in the world of model railroading. HATO controls a distributed system consisting of a group of sensors and power supply units via a custom protocol, HLCP (Hato Line Control Protocol), which is run over USB. The system manages the position and speed of multiple trains while preventing accidents and automatically operating trains. In addition, a train control interface similar to those found in an transit control centre enhances the immersiveness of your model train simulation. HATO is an open source project available on GitHub.

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by Taiki Aki (Mentor: Yoshifumi Seki)

ゼロから作るMotion Simulator

Abstract

This Motion Simulator is a system designed to enhance the sense of immersion by allowing users to physically experience the movements depicted in content, similar to 4DX in movie theaters. I have been working on creating my own Motion Simulator from scratch over several years through trial and error. This time, I have built a chair-type Motion Simulator that features "6 degrees of freedom" and is "compact enough to fit the mechanism under the chair." Such a Motion Simulator with these characteristics is not only unique among DIY projects but also does not exist in commercial products.

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by Mizuki Hara (Mentor: Daiki Teramoto)

新型独立ステアリング機構の開発およびそれを用いたAGVモジュールの開発

Abstract

As logistics, which supports our daily lives, faces increasing pressure as seen in the "Logistics 2024 Problem," the AGV equipped with a high-speed, highly maneuverable independent steering mechanism being developed in this project is expected to contribute to the efficiency of logistics. The design incorporates innovations such as topology optimization and modular design.

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by Hikari Yoshida (Mentor: Yohei Yasukawa)

niwango.js - 動画のコメントでプログラミング可能なニワン語の実行エンジン

Abstract

This is an interpreter engine that executes the programming language "Niwango (Niwango Script)" in a web browser. It provides a time-sequenced processing system and returns the rendering results. The primary goal is to enable the re-execution of works previously created with this language, with the ultimate aim of revitalizing the Niwango community.

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by (Mentor: Yoshifumi Seki)

Stask - 学生の課題進捗を助けるアプリ

Abstract

Stask is a task management application designed for students who struggle to manage their numerous homework assignments. The app features an intuitive interface that helps users quickly identify which task to start with, thereby lowering the barrier to beginning their assignments. Additionally, it allows students to compete with friends who have been assigned the same tasks, encouraging them to start working on their assignments earlier.

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by Yuta Kobayashi (Mentor: Takahiro Anno)

Capitalens

Abstract

Capitalens is a web application that leverages new technologies such as AI to visualize current activities based on primary information from the National Diet. It addresses issues such as the dissemination of decontextualized information on social media by providing AI-generated summaries of meetings and speaker classification features, making parliamentary discussions more accessible.

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by Jumpei Saito (Mentor: Maki Komuro)

3Dプリンタで作る自作モーター

Abstract

The ultimate goal of this project is to expand the options for motor selection by including self-made motors, thereby enabling more precise realization of ideas. As a first step towards this goal, we successfully created a brushless motor using 3D-printed parts, developed a custom control circuit, and achieved motor operation. Moving forward, we aim to enhance efficiency and promote information sharing to foster a culture of self-made motors.

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by Ryu Wakasa (Mentor: Hirokazu Nishio)

Code Museum - 読むことだけに特化したソースコードエディタ

Abstract

Code Museum is a source code editor that deliberately omits the "writing function" found in typical editors, focusing instead on "reading functions." It offers various features for reading, such as range execution and GPT-based functionalities. By using this editor, users can reduce the time spent reading code and enhance productivity.

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by Itsuki Tsuruta (Mentor: Shoya Ishimaru)

lescued - AIで好みの曲を生成するシステム

Abstract

lescued is a music composition AI that generates the "desired music" for users without the need for verbalization. This is achieved by the AI learning the user's preferences and providing the generated music during this process. By offering this mechanism as an application, users can directly access the music they need.

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Program Agenda

Supervisor

Photo of Ikuo Takeuchi

Ikuo Takeuchi

Professor Emeritus at The University of Tokyo, Director of MITOU Programs, and Director of MITOU Foundation
Biography

He was born in Toyama in 1946. After he joined NTT Research in 1971, he worked on Lisp and the development of its processing system. Inventor of the TAK Function. After he left the company, he was a professor at The University of Electro-Communications, The University of Tokyo, and Waseda University.

Message

Since the launch of the MITOU Programs in 2000, we have increasingly focused on younger creators. Information Technology (IT) is not just for adults; I believe it's essential to discover and nurture an understanding of IT from a very young age. The MITOU Junior program is designed to facilitate it by providing an environment where young people can do more than just 'learn.' They can develop and enhance their skills, growing into talented IT professionals. This program is an opportunity for them to spread their wings and realize their full potential.

Watch message on YouTube (in Japanese)

Organizer

MITOU Foundation's logo image

The MITOU Foundation focuses on fostering IT innovation by building a network of creative talents, particularly those who have completed the MITOU Program. This organization was established in 2014 to address the growing need for innovative talents capable of transforming various industries and societal structures in the 21st century. It is a non-profit general incorporated association, a legal entity in Japanese law.

Sponsors & Supporters

MITOU Junior program has 10+ financial and in-kind sponsors. Also we have 10+ supporters, including MEXT (Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology) and METI (Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry).

Sponsors for 2024

Interested in sponsoring?

Feel free to contact us to find out
what we can do together!

Collaborators

Supported by Japanese goverment

FAQ

MITOU Foundation runs the project. Volunteer by project manager and MITOU graduates, and support by companies and organizations.

An assigned mentor will support development scheduling and development issues once a week for about one hour. Also, up to 500K Yen is given per project to cover all the development costs. In addition, there are events at which all participants come together (such as Kickoff Camp and Demo Day) and get feedback from project managers and other MITOU-related personnel and experts related to projects.

Aside from the project development cost, transportation and camp costs for official events will be covered.

No problem. An environment will be set up to present and talk with participants during events using internet calling services. The round trip cost from overseas (in economical and rational range) will be given in addition to the development fee.

The MITOU Junior development fee is strictly for development tools and software. It is not salary paid for labor, so it does not count as working.

Yes. The same proposal and documents for The MITOU Program can be used to apply for the MITOU Junior program.

It is not a requirement, but it is good if, even though it may be rough, you have a prototype to explain to the audience by the demo day.

We will pace the development flexibly for each participant. MITOU Junior is not a job, and students' first and foremost duty is studying. We don't push participants to certain hours.

We look for the skill to research and implement about what you want to develop.

Yes, it is possible.

Accepted participants need a person to sign the parental authority's agreement before the start of the project, but it is not needed at the time of application.

After about one week (depends on number of applications) from the deadline, we will email you. Information about the reason why you were not accepted will not be disclosed.

Yes. Check out "Guidelines in Case (in Japanese)" video in YouTube for details.

The person who created it.

To edit the application, you can send the same proposal multiple times. In that case, the old application becomes invalid.

Within several days from each deadline (in Japanese), we send the result to the email submitted on the application form. We ask the selected and chosen ones to reply. If we do not recieve a reply, we will call you. If you are using a spam mail filter, please allow email from mitou.org domain.

Yes, but up to 3 projects. And if selected, only one project will be supported.




Contact

Let us know if you have any questions or interests!