enXross -
The Living Lab in
Tokyo Dome City
Unleash Your Startup's Potential
Join enXcross (pronounced encross) at Tokyo Dome City, a unique global residency where 10 visionary startups (5 from Japan, 5 from USA & Canada) transform ideas into reality over 6 immersive months in Tokyo's vibrant core. Accelerate your startup with real-world testing, refine your tech with 100,000 daily visitors, and gain global exposure across AI, Web3, XR, and entertainment.
Inspired by EmpireDAO, enXross is a dynamic living lab where founders deploy innovations in a futuristic, high-traffic urban setting. The collaborative structure unites participants to shape a shared governance model, driving the future of technology. As Japan leads globally in entertainment, this pioneering program empowers startups to move beyond theory, directly applying products to real users in real time at one of the world's most iconic and forward-thinking venues.
Tokyo Dome City
Tap into Tokyo Dome City, more than just a stadium—it's a full-scale entertainment district in Tokyo's heart, attracting over 100,000 daily visitors. From thrilling rides and live concerts to shops, restaurants, and an on-site hotel, this iconic complex offers founders a dynamic space to launch and scale their innovations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Program Basics
Do we need to move to Japan?
Yes, at least one co-founder is expected to be in Tokyo from January 5th through June 30th, 2026. This is an in-person residency designed to maximize the opportunity at Tokyo Dome City, including regular activations, events, and in-person collaboration.
What kind of startups are you looking for?
We're looking for startups building in AI, XR, Web3, or other emerging technologies, with a focus on creating experiences that redefine entertainment, leisure, or public interaction. A working prototype or product is required.
How many teams will be selected?
We will select up to 5 teams from North America to join the 6-month in-person residency from January to June 2026.
What happens after the 6-month residency?
You'll gain ongoing access to the enXross community and alumni network. Some teams may extend their stay, pursue partnerships, or raise capital in Japan. Your journey doesn't end in June.
What is Tokyo Dome City, and why here?
Tokyo Dome City sees 100,000+ daily visitors and includes a stadium, amusement park, hotel, spa, and shops. It's an ideal real-world sandbox to test and showcase emerging tech at scale.
Travel & Logistics
Do we need to be in Tokyo on September 29th, 2025?
Yes. At least one co-founder must attend in person for the final pitch competition and awards ceremony on September 29, 2025. This event includes press coverage, networking, and live judging.
Will our flights be covered for the January–June 2026 program?
No. For the full in-person residency from January to June 2026, round-trip airfare and accommodation are not covered by Tokyo Dome City. These costs are the responsibility of participants.
However, if your team is selected as a finalist, round-trip economy airfare and three nights of accommodation will be reimbursed for up to two team members attending the September 29th, 2025 Pitch Competition in Tokyo.
However, if your team is selected as a finalist, round-trip economy airfare and three nights of accommodation will be reimbursed for up to two team members attending the September 29th, 2025 Pitch Competition in Tokyo.
Will enXross reimburse travel costs to Tokyo for the Final Pitch on September 29?
Yes. If selected as a finalist, you'll be reimbursed for economy-class airfare and three nights of accommodation (up to ¥50,000 total) for up to two team members. Reimbursement is made in yen by bank transfer.
What if we can't attend the September 29 pitch in person?
In principle, in-person attendance is required. In the event of extreme and verifiable circumstances (e.g., travel bans, natural disasters), remote participation may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Housing & Living
Will enXross or Tokyo Dome City help with housing?
We will provide recommendations based on your team's budget, space needs, and preferred neighborhood vibe, but ultimately, you are responsible for securing your own housing. We are actively researching ways to cluster selected teams near each other and close to Tokyo Dome City.
How much should we budget for housing?
Most teams will find shared accommodations in central Tokyo range from ¥150,000–¥250,000/month (~$1,000–$1,700 USD). Solo housing or units closer to Tokyo Dome City may be higher. A housing guide will be provided to finalists.
Do we need to speak Japanese?
No. The program will be conducted primarily in English. That said, we encourage participants to learn basic Japanese (e.g., using Duolingo) to better navigate daily life in Tokyo.
Eligibility & Requirements
What are the visa requirements?
You must hold a valid passport. We will support visa applications by providing invitation letters and general guidance, including for Japan's Digital Nomad Visa. Participants are responsible for fees and application logistics.
Is there an age requirement? Can students or minors apply?
Yes, students and minors may apply. However, any team member under 18 must have written parental/guardian consent and may need a guardian present for interviews.
Can we bring our family or team members?
Yes, any additional housing or visa arrangements may need to be managed independently.
Costs & Funding
Is this a paid program? Will we receive funding?
There is no cost to participate in the program. There is no direct funding for the program. Details will be shared with finalists in late 2025.
Will we have to pay to use the enXross coworking space?
No. Use of the coworking space is free up to 3 team members, though a small operational fee may be introduced for things like equipment or maintenance. These costs, if any, will be minimal and communicated in advance.
Community & Support
Will we be supported during the residency, or are we on our own?
You won't be alone. The enXross program is led by Mike Fraietta, founder of EmpireDAO and longtime connector of founders to users, investors, journalists, and mentors. Mike has worked with Techstars, Startup Weekend, MentorCamp, and was a Scout for Sequoia Capital.
He's relocating to Tokyo with his family for the full program and is already laying the groundwork through the visa process and local partnerships. He'll be your point of contact, mentor, advocate, and fellow builder — also working on his own startup, Gargoyle Systems.
He's relocating to Tokyo with his family for the full program and is already laying the groundwork through the visa process and local partnerships. He'll be your point of contact, mentor, advocate, and fellow builder — also working on his own startup, Gargoyle Systems.
Will there be events and mentorship opportunities?
Yes. You'll have access to a deep network of local and international mentors, including visiting founders, investors, and operators. Expect a steady stream of community events, workshops, mixers, and curated introductions, all designed to help you grow in Japan and beyond. You'll also benefit from shared learning across the cohort and Tokyo Dome City's broader innovation ecosystem.