We are hosting a business plan competition titled "SAITAMA Smile Women Pitch 2026," aimed at supporting the growth of women entrepreneurs and fostering role models who will thrive not only in Saitama Prefecture but also nationally and internationally. We welcome applications from many interested individuals! 1 Eligibility Women who have been in business for generally less than five years (including those who have launched a new business or entered a new field within the past five years) and are currently operating a business in Saitama Prefecture Women who have been in business for generally less than five years (including those who have launched a new business or entered a new field within the past five years) and plan to operate a business in Saitama Prefecture Women who are pre-entrepreneurial but plan to operate a business in Saitama Prefecture *Individuals who have previously been finalists and received an award in this competition are not eligible 2 Application Deadline July 29, 2026 (Wed), by 5:00 PM (must be received by this time) 3 How to Apply Please complete the application form with the required information and submit it via the application form link below. The application form can be downloaded from the URL provided. Application Form URL: https://smile-women-pitch.com/requirements/ 4 Pre-Event We will host an event to explain the competition overview and application tips, including a panel discussion by past awardees. We encourage anyone considering applying or who is interested to attend. Date and Time: July 13 (Mon), 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM (tentative) Venue: M's SQUARE, 2nd Floor, Musashino Bank Head Office Building 5-minute walk via pedestrian deck from Omiya Station West Exit (1-10-8 Sakuragicho, Omiya-ku, Saitama City, Saitama Prefecture) Registration: Please register via the following URL. URL: https://smile-women-pitch.com/requirements/#event/ 5 Schedule Date Details Early to mid-August First screening (document review) August 26 (Wed) Brush-up worksh