Overview of the INO Program
Q1. What is the INO program?
INO (OIST Innovation Network Okinawa) is an industry–academia collaboration network operated by OIST Innovation.
It provides continuous opportunities for companies, researchers, and startups to connect and engage, leading to joint research, proof-of-concept (PoC) projects, and broader business collaboration.
Q2. What types of companies or organizations can join?
Organizations of any industry or size that are interested in research, technology, or business collaboration are eligible to join, including:
- Companies (domestic and international, large enterprises and SMEs)
- Startups
- Investment and support organizations
- Regional companies (including those with bases in Okinawa)
Membership Categories
Q3. What types of membership are available?
The following membership categories are available:
- Premium Member
- Regular Member
- Okinawa Member
- Startup Member
- Event Member
For details, please refer to the Membership Guide page.
Membership Fees
Q4. How much is the membership fee?
Membership fees vary depending on the membership category.
Please refer to the membership fee table and the Membership System and Fees page for details.
If you join on or after October, the membership fee will be discounted by 50 percent.
Member Benefits
Q5. What benefits are available for Premium, Regular, Okinawa, and Startup Members?
The following four membership categories (Premium, Regular, Okinawa, and Startup Members) provide access to INO services designed to support joint research and business collaboration.
Please refer to the membership fee table and the Membership System and Fees page for details.
Q6. What benefits are available for Event Members?
Event Membership is designed for event participation and information access.
Please refer to the membership fee table and the Membership System and Fees page for details.
Q7. What is the difference between “Premium, Regular, Okinawa, and Startup Members” and “Event Members”?
Premium, Regular, Okinawa, and Startup Members are intended for organizations seeking research and business collaboration.
Event Members are intended primarily for event participation and information access, and individual collaboration with researchers is not included.
If you are considering research or business collaboration, we recommend joining as a Premium, Regular, Okinawa, or Startup Member.
How to Join
Q8. How can I join the INO program?
The membership process is as follows:
- Meeting with the INO Secretariat
- Submission of the membership application form
- Review by the INO Secretariat
- Payment of membership fee
- Completion of membership
Membership becomes effective upon submission of the application.
For details, please refer to the Application Process page.
Q9. Is there a fixed enrollment period?
Membership is open year-round.
Membership fees and validity are managed on a fiscal-year basis.
Q10. Can I consult with INO before joining?
Yes.
We offer individual consultations and online meetings for organizations considering membership.
Please feel free to contact the INO Secretariat.
Q11. When does membership renewal take place?
Membership renewal is conducted in line with the fiscal year transition.
The INO Secretariat will contact members during the renewal period (January to February).
Q12.Can companies based outside Japan join?
Yes.
Companies and organizations based outside Japan are welcome to join.
Support in English is available.
Q13. Can invoices be issued?
Yes.
Please provide the necessary information in the membership application form.
Q14. Is it possible to withdraw mid-year?
Yes, mid-year withdrawal is possible.
However, membership fees already paid are non-refundable.
Research Collaboration and Activities
*This section applies to Premium, Regular, Okinawa, and Startup Members. Event Members are not eligible.
Q15. How does consultation and matching with researchers work?
The INO Secretariat serves as the main contact point.
Based on your interests and challenges, we introduce appropriate researchers or research themes and provide support throughout the process.
Q16. Is a concrete project required to consult with researchers?
No.
You may consult with us even if your project is still at the idea is still at the conceptual or problem-definition stage
Contact Information
Q17. How can I contact the INO program?
For inquiries regarding the INO program, please contact the INO Office via contact form.