The prefecture is implementing the "HATSU Entrepreneur Support Program" to continuously foster local entrepreneurs. This program recruits and selects promising "challengers" aiming to start businesses, providing intensive, personalized support to help them achieve their goals. We are pleased to announce that 13 individuals have been selected as the FY2026 "AGORA Hon-atsugi Challengers (First Term)" who will receive support from the prefecture at "AGORA Hon-atsugi," an entrepreneurship hub located in Atsugi City. List of "AGORA Hon-atsugi" Challengers (FY2026 First Term) (Titles omitted, listed in Japanese syllabary order) Name Business Content Toshi Iezawa Recruitment support service utilizing "AI Aptitude Diagnosis" to resolve mismatches in hiring and early turnover in the nursing care field. Keisuke Oguri AI agent in a Gantt chart format for managers and players handling multiple projects simultaneously. Kyoko Kato Cat sitter matching service that creates connections through cat care, forming employment and community spaces. Yuko Kusaka Landmark cafe business aiming for health promotion and regional revitalization using the local landscape and ingredients of Isehara City. Nobunobu Sawabe Educational business that nurtures children's "passions" into career paths through inquiry-based activities. Manashi Soro Operation of a membership-based community hub that realizes intergenerational exchange and regional revitalization. Yuzuki Takahashi Video production business "YUZUFILM" that disseminates local charm rooted in the community while expanding globally. Hiroyuki Tamatsu Non-surveillance AI service that protects the dignity and independence of the elderly and communicates signs of falls to families. Yohei Nakayama Art production business that visualizes the lives of local residents and the aspirations of local companies through picture books, connecting the community and people. Mami Higuchi Organizational development support business for SME growth through visualiz