Take This Opportunity to Share Your Challenge — Application Deadline Extended for “Startup Lady Award 2026”
The Startup Lady Association (Representative Director: Moeko Suzuki) has announced an extension of the application period for the Startup Lady Award 2026, which will be held on October 28, 2026, at Gemmio Tokyo Boutique in Shibuya, Tokyo. The new application deadline is Wednesday, October 7, 2026.
The Startup Lady Award 2026 recognizes women entrepreneurs, entrepreneurs and organizations working to address social challenges, as well as investors who support their journeys.
To provide more people with the opportunity to apply, we have decided to extend the application period.
We hope this award will serve as an opportunity for applicants to reflect on the activities and challenges they have pursued, the changes they have created, and the thoughts and motivations behind their work—and to share those stories with a wider audience.
If you are wondering:
“Would my challenge be eligible for this award?”
“I’m still deciding whether to apply.”
We encourage you to take this opportunity to share the activities, experiences, and challenges you have built up along the way.
We look forward to receiving your applications.
Application Period and Schedule
Application Period: September 1 – October 7, 2026
Application Method: Open call
Selection Process: One award recipient in each category will be selected through document screening and a final selection process (tentative).
Award Ceremony: October 28, 2026
Venue: Gemmio Tokyo Boutique, Shibuya, Tokyo
Eligibility
- Women founders and entrepreneurs
- Investors, mentors, companies, and individuals who support women entrepreneurs*
- Entrepreneurs and organizations working to address social challenges*
Open to applicants of all genders.
Award Categories
The Startup Lady Award consists of the following three categories, with one recipient selected in each category:
- Entrepreneur Award
- Investor Award
- Social Impact Award
Each award recipient will receive a certificate of recognition as well as a custom-made piece of jewelry from award partner Gemmyo in recognition of their achievements.
Please apply using the application form below.
A separate application form must be submitted for each award category. If you wish to apply for two categories, please submit the form separately for each category.
*Application information will be used only to the extent necessary for the selection and administration of the Startup Lady Award.
*Please review and agree to the event Terms of Use before submitting your application.
*If you are selected as a finalist or award recipient, your name, affiliation, profile, photograph, activities, and other relevant information may be featured on the websites, social media channels, press releases, and other communications of the Startup Lady Award, Startup Lady, and its partners.