We had the opportunity to interview Mr. Someya, Vice President of Global Strategy of Hutzper. Hutzper is a semifinalist in the SusHi Tech Challenge 2025.
Hutzper is a startup aiming to solve DX challenges in the manufacturing sector through the provision of versatile AI packages and custom development services. They offer a variety of AI/DX-related services, including the appearance inspection and quality control AI " Hutzper Vision" and the personnel allocation optimization AI "Hutzper Allocation".
The company garnered significant attention by winning the Corporate Partner Prize at the SusHi Tech Challenge 2025. Mr. Someya shared his experiences from the event and discussed the vision the company aims to pursue in the future
- ――― First of all, congratulations on winning the Corporate Partner Prize at SusHi Tech Challenge 2025. Today, we would like to ask about your impressions and initiatives while reflecting on SusHi Tech Tokyo 2025.
- ――― To begin, what motivated you to apply for SusHi Tech Tokyo 2025?
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Hutzper received approval for its listing on the Tokyo Stock Exchange Growth Market in November 2025. Even at the time of participating in SusHi Tech Tokyo 2025 in April, there was a strong intention to accelerate overseas expansion as part of the preparations for the new listing. The decision to participate was made because it is Asia’s Largest GlobalInnovation Conference, providing opportunities to connect with overseas companies.
The two main targets we aimed to connect with were manufacturing companies that would become end-users and companies that would serve as sales and distribution agents overseas. - ――― What did you focus on in your pitch and booth exhibition?
- In the pitch, we started by addressing the challenges faced by manufacturing companies and then explained the features of our products. Although we were unable to display physical products at our booth, we set up brochures and monitors.
- ――― As the Corporate Partner Prize winner, could you tell me your comments about the outcomes of the event?
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First of all, I was genuinely pleased to receive the Corporate Partner Prize. We are still utilizing the shared office provided by Tokyo Chuo Building, and building a relationship with Fujitsu, a top company that could become an end-user for us, is also a significant achievement.
Additionally, it was great to exchange business cards and have discussions with dozens of organizations and companies. We actively took advantage of networking opportunities, such as the exchange event held that evening. We were able to connect with several manufacturing companies that are potential customers, and we have also been introduced to accelerator programs through semi-public and semi-private organizations, including those overseas, leading to many opportunities.
Moreover, it was a very good opportunity to receive feedback on how our services for Japanese manufacturing companies are perceived by companies around the world. - ――― You utilized the event as a platform for preparing for overseas expansion. Were there any other responses or feedback from within or outside the company?
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Within the company, some employees who watched the pitch video commented, 'You're pitching in a jungle-like venue (while laughing).' There was high anticipation and awareness about participating in SusHi Tech Tokyo.
On the external side, it seems that representatives from the bank we do business with watched our pitch that day, and they reached out to us afterward. I was relieved to hear that the feedback was positive. - ――― Could you share your vision and ambitions for future business growth?
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In our domestic business, we aim to expand the scale of our operations. We will focus on strengthening our sales efforts and enhancing our recruitment system to support this.
In our international business, we plan to advance our overseas expansion starting in 2026. To achieve this, I believe it is essential to have a deep understanding of local cultures and the barriers that exist when entering the market. We will continue to work on establishing connections with overseas investors and local sales agents.
Hutzper is a company specializing in AI solutions for the manufacturing industry. The Japanese manufacturing sector maintains high quality and operational standards that are competitive globally, and I feel very proud to have the opportunity to promote solutions rooted in Japanese quality alongside such companies to the world. - ――― Finally, please share a message for the startups considering participating in SusHi Tech Tokyo 2026.
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Participating in SusHi Tech Tokyo, I felt that the pitch was infused with the energy of Tokyo. Not only was the atmosphere of the venue great, but there were also many participating media outlets, making it one of the top events in Japan in terms of presence.
Especially for startups seeking cross-border connections, I encourage you to participate and seize the opportunity for business expansion!
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■ Company Profile
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Company Name: Hutzper Inc.
Representatives: Representative Director & CEO: Hiro OnishiCountry: Japan
Website: https://hutzper.com/ - ■ SusHi Tech Tokyo 2026
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Dates: April 27 (Mon) – April 29 (Wed/Holiday), 2026
Venue: Tokyo Big Sight
Apply for Startup Booth Exhibition:
https://sushitech-startup.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/en/booth-exhibition/
Apply for the SusHi Tech Challenge 2026 Pitch Contest:
https://sushitech-startup.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/en/recruiting-pitch/