The Japanese government is making another investment in the anime world!
Last week, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Bureau of Industrial and Labor Affairs announced that they are hosting a competition to spur overseas business development. The government is accepting applications for original anime projects, which is open to all small and medium businesses in the Tokyo Metro area. Sole proprietorships are also able to apply.
Winners will be awarded a cash prize of 300,000 yen ($2,698.08 USD). Winners will also earn the opportunity to pitch their projects and conduct business discussions with foreign producers.
The chosen groups will be required to produce a one-minute pilot pitch video. To prepare the winners, The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Bureau of Industrial and Labor Affairs will offer advice and lessons on how to produce a pilot pitch.
Applications will be accepted from April 28 through May 26. All applicants will be required to attend at least one of six planned project briefings, which will be held on the following dates:
- April 28
- May 9
- May 11
Source: Anime! Anime!
