JA Network Launches the Japan Australia Sports & Health Innovation Exchange (JASHIE)
JA Network Launches the Japan Australia Sports & Health Innovation Exchange
Partnership with Mizuno Corporation and Nakanoshima Qross set to accelerate cross-border innovation in sport and health
Melbourne, 21 September — JA Network today announced the launch of the Japan Australia Sports & Health Innovation Exchange (JASHIE), an ambitious new initiative to transform collaboration between Australia and Japan in sports and health innovation.
Developed in partnership with Japanese sports giant Mizuno Corporation and leading sportstech and health startup accelerator Nakanoshima Qross, JASHIE will connect, grow, and sustain an innovation ecosystem across both countries.
With a mission to drive economic and social impact through technology, partnerships, and knowledge exchange, JASHIE aims to position Australia and Japan as global leaders in sports and health innovation — extending well beyond athletic performance to advance wellness, active lifestyles, and community sport.
“Sport and health innovation are natural bridges between Australia and Japan,” said Cristina Merino Ishizuka, Founder & CEO of JA Network. “Through JASHIE, we’re creating a platform that enables startups, researchers, investors, and governing bodies to collaborate, share expertise, and accelerate ideas that will improve lives and inspire future generations.”
JASHIE will focus on three core objectives:
- Connect: Build an active ecosystem by hosting annual delegations, targeted networking events, and an online community to link entrepreneurs, investors, researchers, and sport governing bodies.
- Grow: Support startups and innovators through pilot programs, co-creation opportunities, and validation pathways with major event rightsholders and sports organisations in both countries.
- Sustain: Extend the impact of high-performance technologies into community sport and wellness, while opening pathways for funding, expertise, and international markets.
The program will concentrate on innovations in:
- Sports management, events, and fan experience
- Healthcare, wellness, and active lifestyle
- Elite performance and training
The inaugural JASHIE delegation and launch event will take place in March 2026 in Queensland and will bring together innovators, investors, and thought leaders from across the sports and health sectors.
Applications will open in November. For more information about JASHIE or to express interest in becoming involved, email contact@ja-network.com.au
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