Interview with the Director of the Center for Entrepreneurs

Q. What is the concept of entrepreneurship?

Entrepreneurship is often translated as entrepreneurial spirit. However, I think this translation of the word "spirit" fails to capture the essence of entrepreneurship. If you were to ask me about the concept, I would say that it is "creating something new" with your own power. The content of "something new" varies: for example, "new business," "new value," and "new means." It is my belief that entrepreneurship does not necessarily mean starting your own business.
　Innovation and entrepreneurship are closely related. It is also said that an entrepreneur is someone who innovates. In other words, by having an innovator's mindset, you can be an entrepreneur in any organization--even if you are a civil servant, for example.

Q. What does it mean to demonstrate entrepreneurship?

In recent years, entrepreneurship is increasingly being translated as entrepreneurial activity. I agree with this interpretation. The important thing is to act, not just to think.
　I started my own business in 1993. Before that, I had been involved in a number of new businesses in an overseas computer company. Based on my experience, I think that most of the meaning of entrepreneurship is related to taking action. Action is the key to entrepreneurship. Tom Kelly, CEO of IDEO, says, "The more proactive you are, the better you perform as an innovator. Without action, it is impossible to create something on your own."

Q. Please tell us about the role of the Center for Entrepreneurs.

The Center supports the activities of people who want to create something new on their own. We want to be a place where such people can start their activities, and we also want to motivate others. If you are hesitant about exercising your entrepreneurial spirit and wondering how to step forward, you can always come here and share your time with us.