Japan MIRAI AI Startup Program 2026: Applications Open for Georgian Students and Young Professionals

The Government of Japan is accepting applications for the Japan’s Friendship Ties Program “MIRAI” 2026, offering eligible university students and young professionals from Georgia an opportunity to participate in a short-term exchange program in Japan.

The program available to Georgian applicants is organized under the theme “AI Startup” and is scheduled to take place in Japan from December 1 to December 7, 2026.

Applicants must be undergraduate students, graduate students or young professionals between 20 and 30 years of age. The deadline to submit the online application and all supporting documents is August 31, 2026, at 18:59 Georgia Standard Time.

The MIRAI program is intended to deepen participants’ understanding of Japan, promote intellectual exchange with Japanese students and experts, strengthen international networks and create a foundation for future cooperation between Japan and participating countries.

Interested candidates should study the official guidelines carefully because this is a country-specific application route. The Embassy of Japan in Georgia announcement does not represent a worldwide application call.

Key Program Information

• Program name: Japan’s Friendship Ties Program “MIRAI”
• Available theme: AI Startup
• Organized by: Government of Japan
• Responsible ministry: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan
• Implementing platform: Japan International Cooperation Center application system
• Eligible applicant location: Georgia
• Eligible age range: 20–30 years
• Target applicants: Undergraduate students, graduate students and young professionals
• Program location: Japan
• Program dates for Georgian participants: December 1–7, 2026
• Application deadline: August 31, 2026, at 18:59 Georgia Standard Time
• Deadline in UTC: August 31, 2026, at 14:59 UTC
• Application method: Online application with supporting documents
• Working language: English
• Official announcement: Embassy of Japan in Georgia
• Application guidelines: MIRAI 2026 application guidelines
• Application form: MIRAI 2026 online application

What Is the Japan MIRAI Program?

The MIRAI Program is a short-term international youth exchange initiative launched by the Government of Japan in 2015.

The Japanese word “mirai” means “future.” The title is also an acronym based on the following words:

Mutual understanding, Intellectual Relations and Academic exchange Initiative.

The program invites promising university students, graduate students and young professionals from Europe, Central Asia and the Caucasus to participate in educational, intellectual and cultural activities connected with Japan.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan describes MIRAI as a people-to-people exchange program intended for young individuals studying or working in fields such as politics, security policy, economics, international relations, Asian studies, Japanese studies and other related disciplines.

For the 2026 regional group involving Georgia, the selected theme is AI Startup. This connects the exchange with the rapidly developing fields of artificial intelligence, technology, innovation and entrepreneurship.

Objectives of the MIRAI Program

The MIRAI Program seeks to develop stronger long-term relationships between Japan and participating countries through direct engagement with the next generation of students, researchers, entrepreneurs and professionals.

Its principal objectives include:

1. Promoting a deeper understanding of Japan

   Participants are introduced to Japan’s economy, society, history, cultural diversity, politics, public institutions and diplomatic relations.

2. Encouraging intellectual exchange

   The program creates opportunities for participants to exchange ideas with Japanese university students, scholars, experts and professionals.

3. Strengthening public communication

   Participants are expected to communicate what they learn about Japan, its policies and its attractions through social media, presentations or other appropriate communication channels.

4. Building international networks

   By bringing together participants from different countries and connecting them with Japanese institutions, the program helps establish relationships that may support future academic, professional and diplomatic cooperation.

5. Creating a foundation for future friendship

   The Government of Japan intends the program to contribute to stronger relations between Japan and the participating regions over the long term.

6. Developing future leaders

   MIRAI targets promising young individuals who are expected to contribute actively to their institutions, professions and wider international society.

The AI Startup Theme

The specific program offered to applicants from Georgia is titled AI Startup.

Although the Georgian embassy announcement does not publish a complete AI-specific curriculum, the theme indicates an emphasis on the relationship between artificial intelligence, technological innovation, entrepreneurship and startup development.

Applicants whose studies or professional work relate to the following areas may be particularly well positioned to explain their interest in the program:

• Artificial intelligence;
• Machine learning;
• Information technology;
• Computer science;
• Software development;
• Engineering;
• Data science;
• Digital transformation;
• Technology policy;
• Entrepreneurship;
• Startup development;
• Business innovation;
• Innovation management;
• Research commercialization; and
• Technology-based solutions to public or social challenges.

These fields are not presented by the Embassy of Japan in Georgia as an exhaustive formal eligibility list. Undergraduate and graduate students and young professionals remain the expressly identified applicant groups. However, applicants should clearly demonstrate how their academic interests, professional experience or future ambitions connect with the AI Startup theme.

Participating Countries in the AI Startup Group

The wider 2026 AI Startup group covers selected countries in Central Asia and the Caucasus.

According to the current announcement published by the Embassy of Japan in Kazakhstan, the participating countries are:

• Armenia;
• Azerbaijan;
• Georgia;
• Kazakhstan;
• Kyrgyzstan;
• Tajikistan;
• Turkmenistan; and
• Uzbekistan.

The same official announcement states that the AI Startup group is expected to contain 12 participants in total from these eight countries.

This indicates that selection is likely to be highly competitive. The Georgian embassy has not published a separate national quota, so applicants should not assume that a fixed number of positions has been reserved for Georgia.

Applicants from the other participating countries should follow the application arrangements announced by the Embassy of Japan responsible for their respective country. They should not use Georgia-specific instructions unless directed to do so by the relevant Japanese diplomatic mission.

Expected Program Structure

The general MIRAI format includes preparatory online learning followed by an intensive program in Japan.

Online Pre-Exchange Activities

The official July 2026 MIRAI overview states that participants may complete online pre-exchange activities before travelling to Japan.

These activities may include:

• Participant orientation;
• Guidance on sharing program experiences through social media;
• Lectures connected with the program theme;
• Virtual discussions with Japanese students;
• Exchanges with Japanese experts; and
• Practical information about the visit to Japan.

A current official announcement for the same AI Startup regional group indicates that preparatory activities may include an introductory MIRAI video, a general lecture about Japan and a pre-departure lecture. Georgian participants should wait for the final schedule and instructions issued by the Embassy, JICE or program organizers.

Participation in required online activities should be treated as an integral part of the program rather than an optional addition.

Activities in Japan

The general MIRAI model may include:

• Lectures on Japan and its major policies;
• Theme-related academic or professional sessions;
• Discussions with Japanese university students;
• Exchanges with researchers, entrepreneurs and other experts;
• Visits to universities and educational institutions;
• Visits to Japanese companies or research organizations;
• Exposure to advanced and traditional industries;
• Visits to cultural, historical or technological sites;
• Travel to a city or region outside Tokyo;
• Meetings or exchanges with local communities;
• Workshops and group discussions;
• A reporting or debriefing session; and
• Preparation of ideas or plans for activities after returning home.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ sample itinerary refers to approximately four days in Tokyo and two days in another Japanese city. It also identifies the possibility of a homestay and visits to Japanese companies, research institutes and historical locations.

However, this is a general sample itinerary. The exact institutions, cities, companies, speakers and activities for the 2026 AI Startup group have not been specified in the Georgian announcement and may change.

Who Can Apply?

The Embassy of Japan in Georgia expressly identifies the following applicant groups:

• Undergraduate students;
• Graduate students; and
• Young professionals.

Applicants must be between 20 and 30 years old.

Because this is a Georgia-specific application announcement, candidates should be connected with Georgia and satisfy the nationality, institutional or residence requirements contained in the detailed application guidelines.

The shared 2026 MIRAI requirements, as summarized on other official Japanese embassy pages for the same application cycle, also indicate that applicants should generally:

• Have sufficient English proficiency to participate actively in lectures and discussions;
• Have a good academic or professional background;
• Be in suitable physical and mental health;
• Be capable of participating in a busy schedule that may involve extensive walking;
• Understand and support the objectives of the MIRAI Program;
• Be willing to communicate their experiences during and after the program;
• Not have lived in Japan continuously for more than six months;
• Not have previously participated in MIRAI or a similar exchange funded by the Government of Japan; and
• Be available for all compulsory online and in-person activities.

Candidates must consult the current application guidelines for the definitive wording of every condition.

English-Language Requirement

MIRAI activities are generally conducted in English. Participants may need to:

• Follow lectures and presentations;
• Participate in technical and policy discussions;
• Communicate with Japanese students and experts;
• Take part in group workshops;
• Explain their academic or professional background;
• Present ideas during reporting sessions; and
• interact with participants from other countries.

Applicants should therefore possess practical spoken and written English proficiency. A formal English-language test score is not mentioned in the Embassy of Japan in Georgia announcement, but candidates should be able to participate confidently in an international English-speaking environment.

Potential Benefits of Participating

The program may provide selected participants with valuable academic, professional and cross-cultural exposure.

Direct Experience of Japan

Participants can develop a first-hand understanding of Japanese society, culture, institutions, industries and public policies.

Exposure to AI and Startup Innovation

The AI Startup theme may provide opportunities to explore how Japan approaches artificial intelligence, research, commercialization, entrepreneurship and technology-based innovation.

Interaction With Japanese Experts

Participants may engage with academics, researchers, entrepreneurs, students and representatives of relevant institutions.

International Networking

The regional group is expected to bring together participants from eight countries, allowing participants to build relationships beyond their home institutions and national boundaries.

Academic and Professional Development

Lectures, workshops, institutional visits and group activities can strengthen participants’ analytical, communication, intercultural and leadership abilities.

Cultural Learning

The program combines thematic learning with exposure to Japanese history, cultural practices, local communities and regional industries.

Future Cooperation

Connections established through the program may support future research, educational partnerships, startup cooperation or other professional engagement with Japan and participating countries.

Financial Coverage and Personal Expenses

The Embassy of Japan in Georgia’s announcement does not provide a detailed list of covered expenses. It therefore does not, by itself, justify describing the opportunity as fully funded.

Applicants must read the 2026 application guidelines and Letter of Understanding to confirm:

• Whether international airfare is covered;
• Which meals and transportation costs are included;
• Whether accommodation is arranged;
• The scope of travel insurance;
• Visa-related arrangements;
• Costs that remain the participant’s responsibility;
• Medical and vaccination exclusions;
• Cancellation charges; and
• Whether any cash allowance is available.

Previous official MIRAI guidelines have commonly provided arranged economy-class airfare, accommodation and specified program-related expenses while leaving participants responsible for certain personal costs. However, previous-year arrangements should not be treated as a binding promise for the 2026 AI Startup group.

Applicants should obtain confirmation from the current guidelines or organizers before making any financial assumptions.

Required Application Documents

Applicants must submit five categories of supporting documents through the online application system.

1. Valid Passport Copy

Applicants must upload a copy of the passport’s photograph and personal-information page.

The passport copy may be in color or black and white, but it must be:

• Clear;
• Complete;
• Properly enlarged; and
• Legible in every part.

All personal and passport information must be visible.

If the applicant does not have a passport that will remain valid during the program, the applicant must renew or extend it promptly. A copy of the renewed or extended passport must be submitted no later than one month before the program begins.

Applicants should not upload a cropped, blurred, dark or incomplete passport image.

2. Letter of Understanding

Applicants must carefully read the conditions contained in the Letter of Understanding before applying.

The applicant must:

• Agree to the stated conditions;
• Sign the document; and
• Upload every page of the document.

Uploading only the signed page is insufficient. All pages must be included.

3. Personal Information and GDPR Privacy Policy

Applicants must read the document titled “Handling of Personal Information and the General Data Protection Regulation Privacy Policy.”

The document must be signed and uploaded with the application.

Applicants should understand how their personal data may be collected, processed, shared and used for program administration and reporting.

4. Academic Transcript or Proof of Enrollment or Employment

The required evidence depends on the applicant’s current status.

For Students

Students must submit an academic transcript clearly displaying the name of their educational institution.

First-year students who do not yet have a transcript from their current institution must submit:

• The most recent academic transcript from their high school or previous university; and
• A current Certificate of Enrollment issued by their university or graduate school.

Both documents are required in this situation.

For Young Professionals

Young professionals must submit a Certificate of Employment.

The certificate must clearly identify the applicant’s current employer.

5. Recent Headshot

Applicants must upload a recent personal photograph taken within the previous three months.

The photograph may be in color or black and white.

The photograph should clearly show the applicant’s face and should be suitable for identification and program administration.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Review the Official Announcement

Read the Embassy of Japan in Georgia announcement and confirm that you fall within the specified applicant group and age range.

Step 2: Read the Complete Guidelines

Study the official MIRAI 2026 application guidelines carefully.

Pay particular attention to:

• Nationality and institutional requirements;
• Age calculations;
• English proficiency;
• Previous residence in Japan;
• Previous participation in Japanese government programs;
• Health requirements;
• Program attendance obligations;
• Financial arrangements;
• Cancellation conditions;
• Personal-data processing; and
• Post-program responsibilities.

Step 3: Prepare the Required Documents

Obtain the passport copy, signed forms, transcript or employment certificate and recent headshot.

Make sure that every document is complete and readable.

Step 4: Complete the Online Application in English

Access the MIRAI 2026 application form and enter accurate personal, academic and professional information.

Applicants should not make claims that cannot be supported by their submitted documents.

Step 5: Upload All Supporting Documents

Check that all five required categories have been uploaded in the correct format.

Pay particular attention to the requirement to upload every page of the Letter of Understanding.

Step 6: Review the Application

Before submission, verify:

• Name spelling;
• Date of birth;
• Passport details;
• Contact information;
• Educational or employment information;
• Uploaded file clarity;
• Signatures;
• Document completeness; and
• Consistency between the form and supporting documents.

Step 7: Submit Before the Deadline

Submit the complete application no later than:

August 31, 2026, at 18:59 Georgia Standard Time.

Applicants should submit early enough to address internet, file-upload or application-platform problems.

How to Strengthen an Application

Although the Embassy has not published a detailed selection rubric, a competitive applicant should clearly show:

• A genuine interest in the AI Startup theme;
• Relevant academic, technical, entrepreneurial or professional experience;
• Strong motivation to learn from Japan;
• The ability to contribute meaningfully to discussions;
• A clear connection between the program and future goals;
• Sufficient English communication skills;
• Evidence of academic or professional performance;
• An interest in international cooperation;
• Willingness to share learning after the program;
• The ability to complete all required activities; and
• Potential to use the experience for wider institutional or community benefit.

Applicants should avoid relying only on a general desire to visit Japan. The application should explain why the AI Startup theme matters to their studies, work or future contribution.

Important Responsibilities of Selected Participants

MIRAI is structured as an active exchange, not simply a sightseeing visit.

Selected participants should be prepared to:

• Attend compulsory online preparatory sessions;
• Follow the complete official itinerary;
• Participate in lectures and workshops;
• Engage in discussions with Japanese students and experts;
• Cooperate with participants from other countries;
• Follow instructions issued by the organizers;
• Respect Japanese laws, institutional rules and cultural expectations;
• Share their experiences appropriately through social media or other communication channels;
• Participate in reporting or debriefing activities; and
• Complete any required post-program questionnaires or follow-up activities.

Applicants should confirm their availability for the entire program before applying.

Selection and Notification

The Embassy of Japan in Georgia has not published:

• The number of places specifically allocated to Georgia;
• A national interview date;
• A detailed scoring system;
• A date for announcing shortlisted candidates; or
• A final selection-notification date.

The wider AI Startup group is expected to include only 12 participants from eight countries, so completing an application does not guarantee selection.

Applicants should monitor their email carefully after applying, including spam or junk folders, because any request for clarification, interview invitation or selection result may be communicated electronically.

Common Application Mistakes to Avoid

Applicants should avoid:

• Applying without reading the complete guidelines;
• Assuming that the program is open worldwide;
• Submitting after the Georgia-specific deadline;
• Uploading an unreadable passport copy;
• Uploading only the signature page of the Letter of Understanding;
• Forgetting to sign the privacy document;
• Submitting a transcript without the institution’s name;
• Failing to include a Certificate of Enrollment when required;
• Submitting an employment certificate without the employer’s name;
• Using an outdated photograph;
• Providing inconsistent information across documents;
• Misrepresenting previous residence or program participation in Japan;
• Assuming that all expenses are covered without verifying the current terms; or
• Treating the program as tourism rather than an educational and professional exchange.

Application Deadline

The final deadline for applicants using the Embassy of Japan in Georgia route is:

August 31, 2026, at 18:59 Georgia Standard Time.

This corresponds to 14:59 UTC and 23:59 Japan Standard Time on August 31, 2026.

Applicants should follow the time stated by the Embassy of Japan in Georgia, even if MIRAI announcements issued in other countries show different local times.

Official Links

• Embassy of Japan in Georgia announcement
• MIRAI 2026 application guidelines
• MIRAI 2026 online application form
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan MIRAI overview

Conclusion

The Japan MIRAI AI Startup Program 2026 offers eligible Georgian undergraduate students, graduate students and young professionals an opportunity to explore Japan’s society, institutions, innovation environment and international outlook.

Through online preparation, thematic learning, discussions with Japanese students and experts, institutional visits and cultural activities, participants can develop new knowledge and international relationships while examining the role of artificial intelligence and entrepreneurship in shaping the future.

The selection process is expected to be competitive because the wider AI Startup group reportedly contains only 12 participants from eight Central Asian and Caucasus countries. Applicants should therefore prepare complete documentation, demonstrate a credible connection with the program theme and explain how they will use and share the experience after returning home.

All applications and required documents must be submitted through the official online system by August 31, 2026, at 18:59 Georgia Standard Time.

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