The SoftBank Innovation Program’s aim is to create new value by taking reviewed and selected third-party innovative solutions and technologies and combining them with SoftBank’s own resources.

For applicants that make the shortlist, SoftBank will provide funding for prototype development, environments for test marketing and other forms of assistance. Applicants that make it to the final stage will be able to deploy their offerings on SoftBank’s sales channels in Japan, and potentially into global markets through other companies in the SoftBank Group such as Brightstar Corp. and Sprint Corporation.

The first round of the SoftBank Innovation Program is open to four categories—Smart Homes, Connected Vehicles, Digital Marketing and Healthcare—and applications will be accepted at the SoftBank Innovation Program official website. An explanation session will be held in Tokyo on August 19 for applicants or those planning to apply.