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.
Financial Support
Each group will be eligible to receive up to 500K Yen as funding for development.
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.
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.
Media & Awards
Our alumni are creating new values after the program as well. Here are a few examples.
- CES 2023 INNOVATION AWARD PRODUCT - Contact Glove By Diver-X - CES 2023
- TEDxAnjo Speakers - Akari Kawaguchi - TEDxAnjo
- J-MEDIA ARTS 25th Entertainment Division U-18 Award - VR Sandbox - J-MEDIA ARTS
- CBS News Teen's tracking app takes a different approach to the coronavirus challenge - CBS News
- KitPloit DetExploit - Software That Detect Vulnerable Applications - KitPloit
- SXSW EDU Toubans! pitch at SXSW 2019 (YouTube) - SXSW EDU
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
Voice Genius - AI x Yukkuri Commentary
by Noritada Yamamoto (Mentor: Rina Kotake)
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.
View detailsA9N: A Microkernel Achieving Portability Using HAL
by Rekka Igumi (Mentor: Kakeru Ishii)
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.
View detailsAI 4-Panel Manga Maker
by Kai Tanaka (Mentor: Yu Ukai)
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!
View detailsBe Free - An App That Allows Non-Speakers to Communicate Freely
by Sota Ueda (Mentor: Ryo Suzuki)
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.
View detailsName Attack Power Display Device - Umeda III (Revised)
by Mona Sako (Mentor: Masato Bito)
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.
View detailsHopefully Automatic Train Operation (HATO): Immersive Automatic Model Train Control System
by Ken Shibata (Mentor: Rhythm Sakamoto)
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.
View detailsCreating a Motion Simulator from Scratch
by Taiki Aki (Mentor: Yoshifumi Seki)
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.
View detailsDevelopment of a New Independent Steering Mechanism and AGV Module Using It
by Mizuki Hara (Mentor: Daiki Teramoto)
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.
View detailsniwango.js - An Execution Engine for Niwango, Programmable via Video Comments
by Hikari Yoshida (Mentor: Yohei Yasukawa)
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.
View detailsStask - An App to Assist Students with Task Progress
by (Mentor: Yoshifumi Seki)
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.
View detailsCapitalens
by Yuta Kobayashi (Mentor: Takahiro Anno)
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.
View detailsCreating a DIY Motor with a 3D Printer
by Jumpei Saito (Mentor: Maki Komuro)
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.
View detailsCode Museum - A Source Code Editor Specializing Only in Reading
by Ryu Wakasa (Mentor: Hirokazu Nishio)
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.
View detailslescued - A System for Generating Preferred Music Using AI
by Itsuki Tsuruta (Mentor: Shoya Ishimaru)
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.
View detailsProgram Agenda
- Target: Individuals and groups (up to 4 members) who are 17 years old or younger as of April 1st.
- Due Date: The application form typically opens on March 10th and closes in early April.
- Duration: About 6 months support from June to November, including Demo Day at the end.
- Fee: Free
- Transportation and accommodation costs for events such as the kickoff camp and demo day will also be covered.
Supervisor
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
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).
