[Okayama University] Okayama University Spin-off Hydro-VENUS Selected for MIC's 'ICT Startup League (FY2026)'

On June 10, 2026, Hydro-VENUS Co., Ltd., a venture originating from Okayama University (Representative Director: Goji Ueda), was selected for the 'ICT Startup League,' an advanced support program for ICT startups promoted by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications. This marks the company's second consecutive selection.

Hydro-VENUS is a startup dedicated to the social implementation of the 'Hydro-VENUS' (Hydrokinetic Vortex ENergy Utilization System), based on research by Professor Shinji Hiejima of Okayama University's Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology. The system is characterized by its ability to generate electricity in flowing water environments with minimal drop, its resilience against driftwood entanglement, and its low installation costs.

The 'ICT Startup League' was launched following the 'Support Project for Early-Stage Research and Development for Startup Creation.' In the newly selected project, the company will combine its flow-based power generation technology with communication technology to establish 'infrastructure node' technology, capable of providing integrated power, communication, and data in off-grid locations. This aims to facilitate remote monitoring and AI-driven flood control and infrastructure management in rivers, oceans, and other areas.

The kickoff for the program was held on June 5, 2026, initiating research and development through collaboration with various enterprises and local governments.