The recent Tokyo Venture Technology Awards ceremony, held at the Tokyo Big Sight during the 2024 Industry Exchange Exhibition, has spotlighted significant technological advancements coming out of the capital. Among those honored, Craif Inc., based in Bunkyo, emerged as a standout, clinching both the Grand Prize and the Governor’s Special Award for Women’s Empowerment. This recognition came for their groundbreaking cancer risk assessment tool, “MySignal Scan,” which utilizes AI to analyze microRNA in urine, providing timely insights into one’s cancer risks.
The Tokyo Venture Technology Awards are designed to celebrate innovative products and services developed by local small and medium-sized enterprises, showcasing their contributions to society and the economy. In her remarks, Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike praised the relentless pace of technological advancements and emphasized the importance of fostering new values to thrive in intense global competition.
Koike noted the alignment of Craif’s achievement with significant scientific milestones, pointing out the recent Nobel Prize awarded for the discovery of microRNA, underscoring the timeliness of Craif’s innovation. She further expressed her commitment to nurturing Tokyo’s ecosystem to support sustainable urban development powered by cutting-edge technology.
Other companies also recognized at the event included those developing revolutionary solutions in healthcare and materials, further illustrating the diverse and innovative spirit thriving within Tokyo’s corporate landscape.
**FAQ Section**
What are the Tokyo Venture Technology Awards?
The Tokyo Venture Technology Awards are an annual ceremony that celebrates innovative products and services developed by local small and medium-sized enterprises in Tokyo. The awards aim to highlight the contributions these companies make to society and the economy.
Who was recognized at the recent Tokyo Venture Technology Awards?
Craif Inc., a company based in Bunkyo, was honored with both the Grand Prize and the Governor’s Special Award for Women’s Empowerment for their cancer risk assessment tool, “MySignal Scan.” This tool utilizes AI technology to analyze microRNA in urine for cancer risk insights.
What is “MySignal Scan”?
“MySignal Scan” is a groundbreaking cancer risk assessment tool developed by Craif Inc. It uses artificial intelligence to analyze microRNA present in urine, providing timely information on an individual’s cancer risks.
What did Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike say at the awards ceremony?
Governor Yuriko Koike praised the rapid pace of technological advancements in Tokyo and emphasized the need to foster new values to succeed in global competition. She noted the alignment of Craif’s achievements with significant scientific breakthroughs, such as the recent Nobel Prize awarded for microRNA discovery.
How does the Tokyo government support technology and innovation?
Governor Koike expressed a commitment to nurturing Tokyo’s ecosystem to support sustainable urban development driven by advanced technology, indicating ongoing support for innovative companies in the region.
What other types of companies were recognized at the event?
Alongside Craif Inc., other companies that develop revolutionary solutions in healthcare and materials were recognized, exemplifying the diverse and innovative spirit within Tokyo’s corporate landscape.
**Definitions**
– **AI (Artificial Intelligence)**: The simulation of human intelligence processes by machines, especially computer systems, allowing them to perform tasks such as learning, reasoning, and problem-solving.
– **microRNA**: A class of small non-coding RNA molecules that play a critical role in regulating gene expression and are involved in various biological processes, including cancer development.
– **Cancer risk assessment**: The evaluation of an individual’s likelihood of developing cancer based on genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.
– **Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs)**: Businesses whose personnel numbers fall below certain limits, which vary across countries. They play a vital role in the economy by fostering innovation and employment.
**Suggested Related Links**
Tokyo Metropolitan Government
Government of Japan
Nobel Prize