Logcast Backed by Shibuya City as It Gears Up for Asia Expansion
We are thrilled to announce that Logcast has been chosen to participate in the “UP by Shibuya Startup Support” program. This initiative, led by Shibuya City, presents an opportunity for global startups with immense potential to thrive within the Japanese market. The program offers the selected startups strategic partnerships with Japanese corporations like gaming and entertainment giants, go-to-market support, and crucial PR assistance in the region. Read the original press release from Shibuya City here.
The “UP by Shibuya Startup Support” program embodies Shibuya City’s commitment to fostering innovation and cross-border collaboration. A total of 11 global startups, including Logcast, have been handpicked to embark on this transformative journey. The program’s focus areas encompass the aging society, AI and the burgeoning fandom economy. This initiative also extends its gaze to other domains like natural disasters, inbound tourism, culinary experiences, fashion, and street culture.
Chosen for the program based on the substantial potential of its flagship product, Oshi, the new product from Logcast is on a mission to bring virtual entertainers and fans closer together. Creators can showcase their personalities and content to the world, while fans can enjoy exclusive members-only content and engage directly with their favorite virtual idols in private chats. The platform will launch globally this December. The company has so far partnered with Bandai Namco and Warner Music Japan for local PoCs, with more set to roll out later this year.
“We’re absolutely thrilled that our crazy vision has earned the support of Shibuya City. It’s a remarkable validation that the heart of Japanese culture, Shibuya, recognizes our potential for inspiring a new generation of entertainment. This endorsement energises us as we embark on a journey to not only push the boundaries of innovation but also to elevate Japanese culture onto the global stage.” — Leni Andronicos, CEO Logcast
As the virtual entertainment landscape continues to expand globally, a fascinating phenomenon is unfolding in Japan: the surge of VTubers. A VTuber, short for “Virtual YouTuber,” refers to an individual or character who creates content and interacts with an audience on platforms like YouTube, Twitch, or other streaming services using a virtual avatar or digital persona. These avatars are often animated or computer-generated, allowing the VTuber to maintain a level of anonymity while engaging with their audience. VTubers can stream live gameplay, host talk shows, create vlogs, sing, dance, and perform other activities just like traditional YouTubers or streamers.
This fast-growing emerging market is projected to reach 50 million VTubers by 2028, matching the number of human creators and signifying a staggering shift in internet culture. The avatar entertainer domain is experiencing 880% year-on-year growth, confirming the growing appetite for digital personalities from fans around the world. Beneath this lies a lucrative avatar market, poised to exceed $500 billion by 2030.
Logcast is in the process of establishing its new office right in the heart of Shibuya, further solidifying its connection with the dynamic Japanese entertainment scene. If you’re interested in joining our team or partnering with us, please reach out to crew@logcast.io
