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This article shares the experience of a participant in the two-day Moon Open Workshops, where they brought a business idea to life. They share their concrete experiences and what they learned about overcoming the challenges of business development.<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:1980/1113;" src="https://moon-website-prod-images.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/blog_Yu2_added2d969.jpg" alt="blog Yu2.jpg" width="1980" height="1113"><figcaption>Author: Yu Sun, who is currently with the Retail Infrastructure Business Division at Mitsui &amp; Co. After launching a retail joint venture in China and promoting domestic and international investment projects at various stages, she is now engaged in new business planning and promotion.</figcaption></figure>&nbsp;<h3>Introduction: What are Moon Open Workshops?</h3>Moon Open Workshops is a two-day workshop program held at the Moon Creative Lab Tokyo studio in Omotesando. It brings together members from the Mitsui &amp; Co. group, partner companies, and individual entrepreneurs to receive feedback from diverse perspectives and refine ideas into highly feasible business concepts.Participants design solutions to their own business challenges using a human-centered approach. Over the two days, they utilize various frameworks and tools to transform their ideas into concrete concepts.&nbsp;<h3>Why I Decided To Participate</h3>Having experienced 0-to-1 business development in an internal project at Mitsui, I had a strong desire to delve deeper into venture-style approaches, techniques, and mentality to expand my own business development toolkit. A personal issue I was facing also aligned with the participation criteria, which further encouraged me to join.Until then, my career had primarily focused on business investment and launching ventures in the consumer-related industry. However, most of this involved evaluating business value or replicating and scaling success based on established models.A turning point came during the year and a half I spent on an internal project creating a new business, which concluded in March 2025. It was a daily process of identifying issues, forming hypotheses, and experimenting repeatedly to find a way into the market. In the process of creating a new business where no one had gone before, past success patterns were useless. I keenly felt the importance of forging my own path. Rather than spending time perfecting a plan, it was crucial to first identify the ultimate goal—the problem to be solved—then formulate hypotheses and take numerous actions toward it, quickly discerning which paths were promising and which were not.This experience was a valuable opportunity for me to touch upon the venture-style approach—the "Fail fast, fail cheap" spirit—and to master the method of shaping a business through trial and error.In today's world, the ability to define a problem yourself and combine technology and resources to build a business to solve it is becoming increasingly essential. I feel that for large corporations rich in technology and management resources, this venture-style approach is truly adding strength to strength.I expected the Moon workshop to be a perfect opportunity for me to systematically organize the framework and mentality of this venture-style thinking and to re-examine my own experiences and understanding.&nbsp;<h3>Unforgettable Moments</h3><img src="https://moon-website-prod-images.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/blog_Yu3_fcb8e3258f.jpg" alt="blog Yu3.jpg">There were countless stimulating moments over the two days. What left a particularly strong impression was a role-playing exercise where I presented my idea to various people of different nationalities, professions, and backgrounds. In response, I heard:&nbsp;"I can really relate to that!""I would definitely want this service! If possible, maybe you could add this feature...""There's a similar service in the U.S. You should check this out."&nbsp;The empathetic feedback from participants, the words affirming the need for the service, and the concrete reference information—all of it was incredibly encouraging, making me feel that my idea might be more than just a whim and could be worth bringing to life.Of course, in the process of refining my ideas within a limited time, the mountain of things to research piled up, and I sometimes felt lost, not knowing where to start. But at those times, the Moon facilitators were there to consult with, asking great questions that served as shortcuts to refining my thoughts.Seeing the other participants, who were just as dedicated and immersed in their own challenges, also gave me the courage to push forward. A strange, strong sense of camaraderie bloomed with these peers who were struggling through the same process and approach but remained positive and determined.I've heard that the venture world has strong horizontal connections and a culture of mutual help. Through this workshop, I feel like I got a taste of that. It truly was two days of feeling that "There's a mountain of things to do, and my thoughts are still jumbled... but I'm definitely not alone. There's always someone watching over me, encouraging me, and supporting me."&nbsp;<h3>A New Step</h3><img src="https://moon-website-prod-images.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/blog_Yu4_e5b5162cec.jpg" alt="blog Yu4.jpg">My biggest takeaway is the attitude of "not fearing uncertainty and boldly challenging the problem in front of you."Even in this modern era where science and technology like medicine and AI are advancing daily, many people around us still live with frustrations and inconveniences. Many of these issues exist in an invisible form, neither visualized nor quantified. However, there are certainly earnest needs that can only be noticed by those who are directly affected or have deeply experienced these problems.People can suddenly face serious life challenges like a severe illness or caring for a parent. It's their first time, they don't know what to do, and they have to spend an enormous amount of time and effort gathering information through trial and error.I want to launch a service that organizes reliable information (explicit knowledge) and the voices of those with experience (tacit knowledge) and provides it in a way that anyone can easily access and compare, allowing them to quickly find the necessary solutions. By doing so, I aim for a future where people can recover no matter what life challenges they face. I hope to create a sort of shelter that accepts us when we are feeling down and helps us prepare to start over with renewed energy.From now on, using the small hints gained from my own experience, I want to contribute to social progress by visualizing and quantifying these often-overlooked issues and developing universal solutions. I now feel this strongly.&nbsp;<h3>To You Who Are Hesitating</h3>New challenges are always accompanied by uncertainty and anxiety. It's only natural to hesitate before taking the first step. If you are currently hesitating to try something new, try asking yourself this:"What do I lose by not taking a step?" versus "What do I lose if I take a step and fail?" Which is greater?By asking myself this, my vague anxieties often transform into concrete images, and the path forward becomes clear. If you feel that you would lose more new experiences and possibilities by not taking that step, your heart should naturally lean towards taking the step.<img src="https://moon-website-prod-images.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/blog_Yu5_a9c2fb7b24.jpg" alt="blog Yu5.jpg">If you can't ignore the "I want to try this" feeling welling up from the bottom of your heart, then muster your courage and take that first step. You might find that a greater reward than you imagined awaits you. And as for what comes after that first step, leave it to your future self.I believe that the me of tomorrow will not betray the me of today. I trust that she will see it through. &nbsp;<hr>Join the Moon Open Workshops! &nbsp;Learn more about the <a href="https://www.mooncreativelab.com/openworkshops?utm_source=blog&amp;utm_medium=post0617&amp;utm_id=blog-yu-sun-202506">program here</a>. &nbsp;2025 Schedule:<ul><li>Summer: 8/21 (Thu) – 22 (Fri)</li><li>Fall: 11/13 (Thu) – 14 (Fri)</li><li>Winter: 2/19 (Thu) – 20 (Fri)</li></ul><figure class="media"><oembed url="https://vimeo.com/1089982366"></oembed></figure>

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<figure class="image image_resized" style="width:25%;"><img style="aspect-ratio:1525/1973;" src="https://moon-website-prod-images.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/image3_48fcc4d69c.png" alt="image3.png" width="1525" height="1973"></figure>Author: Khairil Azmi is Moon Creative Lab’s Program Manager for Asia-Pacific, based at the Mitsui &amp; Co.’s Asia-Pacific regional HQ in Singapore. A Mitsui employee originally from Mitsui Indonesia, he joined Moon Creative Lab in October 2021, responsible for business development across the region.&nbsp; At Mitsui, he concurrently handled strategic planning’s diverse and dynamic activities for the region in 2021-2024.<hr>My journey at Moon Creative Lab has been nothing short of transformative. As a&nbsp;Program Manager&nbsp;for the thriving Asia Pacific region, I have had the privilege of connecting people, ideas, and opportunities: helping creative thinkers become founders and supporting startups as they grow. Whether it was sourcing new collaborations, bridging corporate and entrepreneurial worlds, or supporting them through the innovation process, every step reinforced the power of experimentation, resilience, and strategic networking. Working in Moon’s dynamic, human-centered environment has not only sharpened my ability to navigate ambiguity and think entrepreneurially, but has also deepened my belief in the impact of bold ideas and meaningful connections.I would like to share key insights and reflections from this journey, lessons that have shaped my perspective on innovation, collaboration, and personal growth. Here, you can read about&nbsp;the experiences navigating the intersection of corporate and startup ecosystems, the skills&nbsp;developed, and the impact on Moon Creative Lab’s efforts in fostering entrepreneurial mindsets.<hr>&nbsp;<h3>Starting the Journey</h3>During my tenure at Mitsui Indonesia, due to Mitsui’s efforts in exploring collaboration and investment opportunities with startups in 2018-2019, I found myself deeply immersed in the startup ecosystem. One of the key milestones was proposing, initiating, and bringing to life a partnership with an accelerator from Japan that focused on supporting early-stage startups in Indonesia. This initiative became a platform for actively engaging with startups, including serving as a judge at pitch events. My team and I connected with over 120 startups, venture capitalists, incubators, and accelerators, forging strong relationships and immersing ourselves in Indonesia’s vibrant innovation ecosystem, the second-largest in Asia, second only to India.&nbsp;These interactions offered a front-row seat to the unfiltered passion of founders, their innovative ideas, and their relentless drive. However, it also exposed a harsh reality: many of these startups failed to survive, their dreams fading before they could fully take flight.Meanwhile, within Mitsui, I was surrounded by brilliant colleagues brimming with creative ideas. Yet, these ideas often remained untapped, disconnected from their organization's immediate business priorities. This disconnect was a missed opportunity, both for the individuals and for Mitsui.When Mitsui announced the establishment of Moon Creative Lab in 2018 to channel internal ideas into actionable ventures, I recognized it as the perfect solution to bridge this gap and was able to join Moon in 2021.Initially, Moon focused solely on ideas from Mitsui employees. While this aligned perfectly with my enthusiasm for unlocking internal potential, I quietly nurtured a dream that Moon would one day open its doors also to external startups. Little did I know that this vision would soon become a reality.&nbsp;<h3>Setting My Own Course at Moon</h3><img src="https://moon-website-prod-images.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/image2_4b0f76b637.jpg" alt="image2.jpg">Joining Moon Creative Lab gave me the opportunity to blend my previous experiences with a larger purpose: empowering idea owners to turn bold ideas into reality. My role allowed me to contribute to an ecosystem where creativity meets execution, enabling individuals to navigate challenges, refine their ideas, and eventually build ventures with real-world impact.&nbsp;As Moon evolved to include external startups, my prior engagements with the innovation ecosystem became invaluable. Leveraging my network of startups, accelerators, and venture capitalists, I helped bring in diverse participants for Moon’s educational and incubation&nbsp;programs and workshops, which created a vibrant mix of perspectives and creativity and strengthened cross-border collaboration.&nbsp;At the same time, I maintained my role at&nbsp;Mitsui &amp; Co. (Asia Pacific). Balancing the corporate and startup worlds required constant adaptability, navigating structured processes while embracing the fast-paced, iterative nature of innovation. This unique dual perspective allowed me to bridge corporate strategy with entrepreneurial thinking, reinforcing the value of agility, cross-sector collaboration, and bold execution in driving meaningful change.&nbsp;While serving as the strategic planning PIC for several countries in Mitsui’s Asia Pacific region, I ensured ideas from Mitsui colleagues aligned with long-term goals. When ideas advanced from learning programs to incubation, we translated corporate objectives into actionable startup methodologies with Moon's expert support. Through this collaboration, we also learned from each other. I gained firsthand experience in the concrete, hands-on application of design thinking from Moon’s teams, embracing a true ‘learning by doing’ approach. At the same time, Moon’s teams deepened their understanding of corporate strategy, including how large organizations leverage their extensive networks, vast business portfolio, and structured decision-making processes to drive long-term growth and impact.&nbsp;<h3>Key Lessons from My Time at Moon</h3>My time at Moon has also equipped me with skills that transcend traditional corporate boundaries:<ul><li>Strategic networking: Engaging with over 300 startups, VCs, and founders and participating in events across Asia-Pacific provided me with the opportunity to foster collaboration, making connections between Mitsui and promising startups, incubators, accelerators, and VCs, and identifying new business opportunities.&nbsp;For instance, during the ASEAN Indo-Pacific Forum (AIPF) 2023, I connected with numerous startups, and brought them into our program. This led to exploratory discussions on potential collaborations, including pilot projects to test the startups’ solutions within Mitsui’s network. This was not a one-time occurrence. I consistently leveraged Mitsui's network and portfolio to expand our engagement beyond Moon’s programs, exploring potential collaborations. &nbsp;</li><li>Design thinking: Before joining Moon, I often jumped straight into ideas without fully understanding the real problems that customers faced, relying mostly on creativity and desk research. Through my experience at Moon, I learned to initiate new business creation by first identifying genuine pain points, ensuring solutions were rooted in real needs rather than assumptions. In my second year at Moon, one of the ideas I developed with a colleague followed this approach and was selected for Moon’s incubation program. I worked closely between the co-founder and Moon's team, revisiting the problems, conducting stakeholder interviews, refining solution concepts, and progressing through PoC and beyond. In addition to applying these principles, I spearheaded workshops to help teams refine ideas based on customer insights and brought Mitsui’s regional employees into Moon’s learning and incubation programs, immersing them in the design thinking process firsthand.&nbsp; &nbsp;</li><li>Cross-cultural collaboration: Managing initiatives with teams across 15 countries allowed me to collaborate with diverse groups of people from different backgrounds and regions, opening new perspectives and solutions. During my time at Mitsui Indonesia, my interactions with colleagues from other countries were mostly limited to emails and involved only a few countries. However, at Moon, while generating leads across 15 countries in the Asia-Pacific region, I had the opportunity to engage with them in person, especially through learning programs. This direct, first-hand interaction with people from diverse cultural backgrounds, languages, perspectives, and problem-solving approaches, greatly enriched my own outlook. It broadened my perspective, deepened my understanding of different ways of thinking, and ultimately helped me grow both personally and professionally, enhancing my inclusivity and openness.</li></ul>&nbsp;As mentioned above, I have learned a lot at Moon. However, in closing, I would like to share one of the most valuable lessons I learned during my time at Moon. One of the most valuable lessons I have learned is the importance of starting with real problems before jumping to solutions. True innovation is not just about generating ideas. It is about deeply understanding unmet needs, iterating based on real-world insights, and identifying opportunities and solutions through continuous learning.Whether in a corporate setting or an entrepreneurial venture, the ability to challenge assumptions, engage stakeholders, and test ideas systematically makes all the difference. By embracing design thinking, strategic networking, and cross-cultural collaboration, we can bridge the gap between vision and execution, transforming abstract ideas into practical, validated solutions.&nbsp;<h3>Transformation Never Stops</h3>Equally important, this journey has connected me with an incredible network of forward-thinking colleagues, founders, and innovators who challenge assumptions, push boundaries, and bring diverse perspectives to solving problems. The relationships I have built along the way are not just part of my past. They will continue to shape how I approach new opportunities, collaborations, and challenges in the future.No matter where you are in your journey, the potential to create meaningful change is always in your hands. Take that first step, connect with the right people, and let the journey unfold.

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<figure class="image image_resized" style="width:25%;"><img style="aspect-ratio:2550/3300;" src="https://moon-website-prod-images.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/Subaru_b6c53fccc0_1_c34176d9a0.png" alt="Subaru_b6c53fccc0 1.png" width="2550" height="3300"></figure>Author: Subaru is a design lead passionate about crafting impactful solutions through product design and research. Her versatile background spans visual, product, and branding design, with hands-on experience in eCommerce, logistics, and healthcare. Since joining Moon, she has embraced her curiosity and commitment to innovation to create designs that improve lives. Subaru’s professional interests center on design, product innovation, and aligning business strategy with creative solutions.<hr>I've had the opportunities of working with many people new to Design Thinking, and every time, it's been an exciting experience. Watching them unlock each phase of the process and seeing their "aha" moments always takes me back to when I first discovered Design Thinking. At first, it seemed like a complex methodology, but the more I practiced it, the more I realized it’s not some exclusive concept. It’s a way of thinking that anyone can master. In fact, once you get familiar with it, you’ll start seeing how naturally it fits into everyday life, making problem-solving more creative, engaging, and even fun.&nbsp;<h3>Design Thinking in Everyday Life</h3>When we hear "Design Thinking," we often associate it with business strategy or innovation — something structured and high-level. While it’s true that Design Thinking does involve a process, it can sometimes feel intimidating, making people hesitant to explore it.But in reality, it’s not just for business; it’s a mindset for solving everyday challenges, both big and small. You can apply Design Thinking to:<ul><li>Boost Personal Productivity (e.g., redesign your daily routine for better focus).</li><li>Improve Relationships &amp; Communication (e.g., try new approaches to make family conversations more open and meaningful).</li><li>Enhance Health &amp; Well-Being (e.g., experiment with different meal plans or fitness routines to find what works best).</li><li>Redesign Home Organization (e.g., create a more functional, clutter-free space).</li><li>Develop Career &amp; Learning Plans (e.g., strategize your next career move).</li></ul>With Design Thinking, you can tackle any challenge you're currently facing. The beauty of it is that it’s all about experimenting, learning, and improving, one small step at a time.&nbsp;<h3>Let’s Practice Together</h3>By applying Design Thinking — from organizing schedules to improving communication — small experiments can make life smoother and more enjoyable. The best part? The more you practice, the more naturally you'll start thinking like a designer.So, how do we apply Design Thinking in daily life? It starts with understanding the key phases:<ul><li>Empathize: Understand your own needs and those of others.</li><li>Define: Clearly identify the problem.</li><li>Ideate: Brainstorm creative solutions.</li><li>Prototype: Test small changes.</li><li>Test &amp; Iterate: Learn from feedback and refine your approach.</li></ul>Let us consider these as they apply to our daily lives. To illustrate that, I’d like to share a personal story.&nbsp;Applying Design Thinking: My Back Pain JourneyA few months ago, I started experiencing serious back pain. Since I’m still in my 30s, people kept telling me it was too early to be dealing with body pain. But I knew I had to address it before it became a long-term issue.&nbsp;Empathize &amp; Define: Understanding the ProblemI began by defining my problem and asking myself key questions:<ul><li>Is my mattress too soft?</li><li>Am I sitting too long at work?</li><li>Do I have poor posture?</li></ul>To get a better understanding, I visited a chiropractor near my neighborhood. After an assessment, I learned that my weak core muscles were making it difficult to maintain proper posture, which was worsening my back pain.&nbsp;Ideate: Brainstorming Possible SolutionsWith this insight, I started brainstorming ways to strengthen my core and relieve my pain. I wrote down ideas on sticky notes and stuck them to my door. After considering my options, I narrowed it down to three experiments to try over the next three months:<ol><li>Regular Chiropractic Visits: Commit to sessions, motivated by the opportunity to try a new café near the clinic.</li><li>Daily Yoga at Home: Self-learn yoga and treat myself to a piece of chocolate as a small reward.</li><li>Joining a Mini-Gym: Follow a structured exercise plan and gradually level up.</li></ol>&nbsp;Prototype &amp; Test: Trying Different ApproachesFor three months, I committed to testing these solutions. I tracked my progress, noted how I felt, and adjusted my routine as needed.At the end of the experiment, I reviewed my notes and found that my back pain had significantly improved after consistently going to the gym. I felt more refreshed, had more energy for work and social activities, and was motivated to continue leveling up my training goals.Iterate: The Journey ContinuesNow that I’ve seen progress, my next challenge is figuring out the best way to stay motivated and push my training goals further. My prototyping and testing are still ongoing.I’m continuously refining my approach to make sure I maintain a sustainable and effective health routine.&nbsp;<h3>Tips To Start Thinking Creatively Today</h3>After hearing my story, you might be wondering: how can I start my own Design Thinking project? The best way is to start small: pick one area of your life and run a fun, low-pressure experiment. The key is to stay open to failure and iteration. Remember, the goal isn’t perfection. It’s learning and improving along the way.If you’re unsure where to begin or feel hesitant to tackle it alone, try involving others! Co-creating solutions with family, friends, or colleagues can boost your confidence and make the process more enjoyable. You don’t have to do it all by yourself.So, are you ready to take on your first Design Thinking challenge?&nbsp;What small problem in your daily life could use a creative, design-driven solution?

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<figure class="image image_resized" style="width:25%;"><img style="aspect-ratio:2550/3300;" src="https://moon-website-prod-images.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/Subaru_b6c53fccc0_1_c34176d9a0.png" alt="Subaru_b6c53fccc0 1.png" width="2550" height="3300"></figure>Author: Subaru is a design lead passionate about crafting impactful solutions through product design and research. Her versatile background spans visual, product, and branding design, with hands-on experience in eCommerce, logistics, and healthcare. Since joining Moon, she has embraced her curiosity and commitment to innovation to create designs that improve lives. Subaru’s professional interests center on design, product innovation, and aligning business strategy with creative solutions.<hr>We are living in the era of AI, where new models emerge almost daily, becoming more advanced and capable. For years, discussions around AI have been filled with both excitement and fear, especially when it comes to its impact on jobs. Designers, in particular, have played one of the center roles of this debate. With AI-powered tools like image generators in Photoshop and Figma’s AI suggesting UI layouts with just a prompt, some wonder: is there still room for designers to shine? &nbsp;The answer is a resounding yes. AI is not here to replace designers but to transform and enhance their role. Instead of fearing automation, designers should embrace what makes them truly valuable—creative thinking, the ability to solve human-centered problems and strategic thinking. To understand why, let’s take a look at how the role of designers has evolved over time and why AI is just the next chapter in this ongoing transformation.&nbsp;<h3>The Evolution of Designers' Roles</h3>Before we discuss the long-term value and sustainability of a design career, we must first understand the nature of a designer’s role.&nbsp;I asked ChatGPT to define it: &nbsp;“A designer is someone who creates and shapes ideas, products, or experiences to solve problems, communicate messages, or enhance functionality and aesthetics… A designer blends creativity, problem-solving, and technical skills to bring ideas to life in a way that is visually appealing, functional, and meaningful.” &nbsp;The essence of design has always been about creative thinking, problem-solving, and strategic thinking. A designer’s role is never fixed (we’re very lively!); it evolves alongside technology, business demands, and user expectations. AI is the latest force driving this transformation forward. In the past, designers specialized in distinct disciplines—graphic design, fashion design, interior design, industrial design, and more. They honed deep expertise in their craft, evolving from traditional handcrafting to digital workflows with the rise of tools like Photoshop and Illustrator. This marked the first major shift: the transition from physical to digital-first design.As businesses became increasingly digital, a second wave of transformation emerged. Designers expanded into UI design, collaborating closely with developers and marketers. Beyond aesthetics, they began shaping brand storytelling, emotional connections, and consistent user experiences across web, social media, and mobile platforms.With the explosion of mobile apps and SaaS platforms, design evolved yet again. UX and UI design became industry standards, and designers moved beyond visuals to focus on user-centered experiences, research, usability testing, and data-driven decision-making. Agile methodologies further reshaped their workflows, positioning designers as integral members of cross-functional teams. Now, as we enter the era of Industry 5.0, where human-machine collaboration takes center stage, designers are once again adapting. They are no longer just creating individual products but designing entire systems—design systems, service blueprints, and omnichannel experiences. AI is accelerating this shift, pushing designers toward new responsibilities such as problem definition, ethical considerations, and human-AI collaboration. The role is evolving from designing static products to shaping dynamic, intelligent experiences.&nbsp;<h3>So, What’s Next For Designers?</h3>How can designers carve out a meaningful place in this AI-driven world? The answer lies in embracing change, not resisting it. Designers have always adapted—whether it was the shift from handcrafting to digital tools or from visual design to user experience. Now, in the AI era, their role is evolving once again. Rather than being replaced, designers are becoming curators, strategists, and facilitators, leveraging AI to enhance their creative thinking, solve human-centered problems, and drive meaningful innovation through strategic thinking. With AI handling repetitive tasks and accelerating execution, designers have a golden opportunity to focus on what truly matters—crafting exceptional user experiences, shaping human-centered design, and thinking strategically. This is also the perfect moment to broaden their expertise, stepping into areas like business strategy, marketing, and systems thinking, where design plays a crucial role in shaping the future.AI is not an enemy; it’s a powerful ally. The essence of being a designer has never been about mastering a single tool or process—it’s about thinking creatively, problem-solving, and strategic thinking. Just as designers have evolved in the past, they will continue to do so now. The future belongs to those who are willing to embrace change, explore new possibilities, and redefine what it means to be a designer in the age of AI.So, the real question is: How will you design your future? &nbsp;

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<img src="https://moon-website-prod-images.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/Thumbnail_Anna_facilitation_26b76935d9.png" alt="Thumbnail_Anna facilitation.png">The author of this blog: Anna Hiraoka. After joining Mitsui, she was involved in healthcare business investment projects in the Wellness Division, and was seconded to Moon Creative Lab (Moon) for two years from October 2018 to September 2020. After working on a healthcare startup at Moon, Anna returned to the Mitsui Wellness Division, then transferred to HR &amp; General Affairs Division promoting D&amp;I. Anna returned to Moon in 2023 and is currently a Senior L&amp;D specialist. She is a facilitator at many workshops held by Moon as part of their business creation program.<hr>Have you ever facilitated a meeting, seminar or workshop?For me, facilitation is the art of guiding and empowering participants to unleash their creativity.I have facilitated over 30 workshops in the past year and worked with over 500 participants from more than 10 different countries. Through this, I have learned tips for successful workshops and “key facilitation elements” that enhance the participant experience.&nbsp;<h3>1.Be the compass, not the captain</h3><img src="https://moon-website-prod-images.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/image3_dd6aa2ab55.jpg" alt="image3.jpg">As a facilitator, your role is not to give solutions every step of the way, but to help participants navigate in the right direction. Think of it as you being the compass—the participant is the captain, making the decisions, while you offer guidance and food for thought. By letting them take the wheel, you empower them to own their journey and build confidence in their ability to embark on the journey without you being there to hold hands.&nbsp;Failure: The instinct to jump in and solve a problem can backfireIn a recent workshop, a participant was stuck figuring out who to interview to validate their problem statement. I gave them a list of potential people to talk to, and off they went. But when they came back, their insights didn’t hit the mark. While I had better candidates in mind, I decided to shift gears.Instead of handing them answers, I asked:&nbsp;“What kind of people do you think would have experience solving similar problems?”“What questions would help them share their stories?”&nbsp;Suddenly, the participant transformed from feeling stuck to leading the charge. They brainstormed personas, crafted thoughtful questions, and fully owned the process.The takeaway? Helping isn’t always about giving the answers. Sometimes, it’s about asking the right questions so participants can take the wheel and steer their own way to meaningful insights.&nbsp;Success: How an empathetic question sparked a transformation&nbsp;Given the importance of these questions, I believe that the key to facilitation lies in empathy and dialogue. In order to connect more deeply with participants, I first value a space where everyone can feel comfortable speaking up. To this end, it is extremely important to create an environment where people feel that there are no fixed answers.If participants feel that they are being listened to and being considered, it will open the door to their hearts and minds, and they will naturally feel the courage to take the next step forward.In&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mooncreativelab.com/learn?utm_source=blog&amp;utm_medium=CTA2503&amp;utm_id=storytelling+by+anna">Moon’s educational program</a>, I once asked a participant who was at a loss to define his challenge:&nbsp;“What feelings are you experiencing now that you have participated in the program?”“How do you feel now about the issues you set?”&nbsp;I tried to empathize with him and asked him questions that appealed to his emotions. He was surprised that I asked him questions about his feelings rather than the results, but this seemed to open him up to actively seeking new directions, including setting up a mentoring session with me.Then, when we had finished defining the issues and had progressed about 70% of the way through the workshop, he approached me with this concern:&nbsp;“I am sorry. I just can't get passionate about the issue I'm facing right now, and I want to start over from the beginning.”I answered, “Thank you for your honesty. Please don't apologize. Let's explore together a problem you can be passionate about!”&nbsp;This switch sparked his mind again. He then redid his assignment selection from scratch at great speed, and ran all the way to the end of the program with confidence, eventually achieving results that made him one of the top performers.<img src="https://moon-website-prod-images.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/image1_becacf70da.jpg" alt="image1.jpg">The fact that people felt they could turn back, even in the second half of the workshop, was the result of sharing a safe space where everyone is encouraged to speak up, knowing that there are no “right” or “wrong” answers.He thanked me for having an emotional dialogue with him. I still keep in touch with him, and each time I am reminded of the power of empathy.I believe that every word spoken in empathy, whether through question or dialog, has the power to light up a participant’s eyes with a kind of magic.&nbsp;<h3>2.Playful staging and props create an extraordinary experience</h3><img src="https://moon-website-prod-images.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/image2_4986fd3e9a.jpg" alt="image2.jpg">So far, we have introduced the role of the facilitator in a workshop and how the power of empathy and questioning can affect the motivation of participants. But of course, the specific content of the workshop also has a significant impact on the outcome.One of the most important things we want to emphasize is the need for a playful twist. We want to include playful elements to relax participants and allow their creativity to flourish.Tactile and creative activities are sure to stimulate a brain that is exhausted from the daily grind. Toy blocks, storyboards with rough drawings, and prototypes made with sticky notes and stickers are just a few effective examples. Playful work is more than just fun; it can be relaxing and create a psychological state in which participants' creativity can flourish. It is all about creating an environment for thinking outside the box.Especially in workshops that require long hours of program work, playful direction and methods are very important as a motivational agent to keep the participants engaged until the end of the workshop.&nbsp;&nbsp;Handmade checks make the final pitchI recently led a workshop designed to build a business pitch, starting with defining a problem, including solutions and market-entry strategies. The workshop involved several days of learning programs to flesh out the ideas, and ended with a pitch on the last day to present the business idea.As the workshop, which had been running for two full days, was nearing its end and the participants were approaching their physical limits, I decided to incorporate a simple activity to liven up the event for the final conclusion.<img src="https://moon-website-prod-images.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/image4_f95cecf870.png" alt="image4.png">I created a handmade “check” to print out and give to the participants, asking them to play the role of “angel investors.” In this new role, they had to decide which team deserved the investment.From that moment on, the atmosphere brightened dramatically. Participants leaned forward to ask questions of the presenters, and a heated discussion began about which ideas had the most potential. At the end of the event, a mini-awards ceremony was held based on the tally results, and the winner was presented with a giant “check.”The scene-stealing performance with simple props transformed participants’ tired faces into enthusiastic smiles, making the pitch the highlight of the day.&nbsp;The reversal of positions made the workshop an extraordinary experienceThe reason why this performance drastically changed the atmosphere of the event might be because it reversed the participants' positions from “evaluation recipients” to “evaluation givers” by giving them new roles. Perhaps that was the magic factor that made the workshop an extraordinary experience.In any case, it is obvious that there is a huge difference in experience between understanding an idea in your mind and actually being able to see and touch it. Imagine yourself standing at an award presentation with a large check in your hand. Wouldn't you feel uplifted by that?Try to create an extraordinary experience by using props that you can actually touch. If possible, include a reversal of positions. Such small changes may create unexpected results in the participants' workshop experience.For me, facilitation is more than a skill. It is an art, including its mindset. I hope, through learning from my own failures and successes, these facilitation techniques help you provide a memorable, impactful participant experience.<hr>Text・Anna Hiraoka Senior L&amp;D Specialist at Moon&nbsp;Moon Creative Lab offers several programs to support startups. If you are interested in transforming your own business idea and growth, please check out the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mooncreativelab.com/?utm_source=blog&amp;utm_medium=CTA2503&amp;utm_id=storytelling+by+anna">top page</a>.

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<figure class="image image_resized" style="width:25%;"><img style="aspect-ratio:526/665;" src="https://moon-website-prod-images.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/image1_2_f9a19e996c.png" alt="image1 2.png" width="526" height="665"></figure>Author: Serene Li, is a Moon Entrepreneur-In-Residence (EIR) from Mitsui Singapore. She joined the Boost program in 2024 with the goal of solving the problem of creating sustainable exercise habits for long-term health benefits. Here is what she experienced at Moon on her entrepreneurial journey.<hr>"Do I need to wait for instructions to start interviewing users?""What are the safest choices to go with?"&nbsp;"Should I wait for Moon's approval for my next concept design plan?"&nbsp;These questions frequently popped up during my early days exploring startup ideas at Moon Creative Lab. They appeared naturally from my corporate-employee mindset. I felt anxious when I realized I no longer had the "safety net" of a manager or senior colleague providing clear instructions and guidance, unlike my previous role at Mitsui &amp; Co.Letting go of this employee mindset wasn't easy. It took courage to take charge of my own plan and execution for the idea. Adjusting to this mindset took time, but it felt necessary because I wanted to see if I could bring my startup idea into reality.In the <a href="https://www.mooncreativelab.com/boost">Boost program</a>, I researched, designed, tested, learned, and adapted continually to deepen my understanding about the market and customers, and considered other factors such as industry trends, on-going innovation, available government support and many more. This constant iteration is essential to drive the idea forward.One of the most important principles that shaped my entrepreneurial mindset is Design Thinking. The problem serves as our compass — whether designing, testing, or connecting with stakeholders, keeping the problem statement in mind has prevented me from pursuing creative concepts that don't effectively solve the problem.&nbsp;<h3>Focus on ends, not means</h3>When I started my entrepreneurial journey, my purpose was to help people develop sustainable exercise habits for their health. I tested a few ideas and struggled to grasp users’ interest in relation to their problem.Later, I moved on to test the next idea: an app that curates audio playlists for users to use while running.&nbsp; I developed a prototype to keep people motivated to run by providing them with stimulating music synced to their heartbeat, interesting, location-specific information, and random fun facts while they are running. However, I was too obsessed with the concept of the playlist, and the problem solving became secondary. Eventually, I realized that providing the curated content was not the means necessary to the problem I really wanted to solve. It was difficult, but I was able to step back and refocus on the important issues.&nbsp; It was a wake-up call that reminded me to stay focused on “solving the right problem.”My key learning in the <a href="https://www.mooncreativelab.com/boost">Boost program</a> has been the importance of staying open-minded and agile. To gather feedback, I've initiated conversations with Moon employees, target users, and even strangers. It was initially challenging for myself as an introvert, but pushing past my shyness and being open-minded have led to unexpected insights and inspiration.&nbsp;&nbsp;For example, I have noticed that asking open-ended questions such as “What approach do you think would work best?” or “How do you identify your exercise motivation from time to time?” and listening closely without jumping to conclusions or imposing my own opinions, has helped me build stronger connections with target users. Those connections have encouraged them to continuously share deeper thoughts about their personal exercise experiences, useful articles, and fitness trends, and even helped to discover an innovative market player that addressed the habit-creation problem with a different approach. Such enthusiastic sharing from target users has quickly deepened my understanding about the market and fueled innovation.The process of concept brainstorming and selection, developing the prototypes, reaching out to people, learning from user-testing, and iterating the concept (mostly on my own with some support from Moon) requires much agility. Staying flexible and adapting quickly without being overly attached to the concept allowed me to refocus on the core mission, which is to solve users’ problems.&nbsp;<h3>View risk as an opportunity for growth</h3>Developing an entrepreneurial mindset has opened a new world to me. I've transformed from someone who avoided risks into someone who embraces them as opportunities for growth. While this journey isn't about becoming the next Steve Jobs or Mark Zuckerberg, it's a transformative experience that's helping me — and those around me — become more innovative, inspiring, and empathetic in both work and life.If I could share one piece of advice: Don't wait until you feel ready, because you never will. Embrace the uncertainty of growth and you'll discover you're capable of more than you ever imagined!&nbsp;Author: Serene Li EIR at Moon, from Mitsui &amp; Co.(Asia Pacific) Pte. Ltd.

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<figure class="image image_resized" style="width:50%;"><img style="aspect-ratio:2550/3300;" src="https://moon-website-prod-images.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/havier_blog_b6c53fccc0.jpg" alt="havier-blog.jpg" width="2550" height="3300"></figure>Author: Javier Mata is a workshop designer and facilitator specializing in learning development and instructional design. With extensive experience creating both in-person and digital content for HRD and MBA programs, he also led a team developing digital content for a business microlearning platform within the corporate arm of a leading organization known for its MBA programs, corporate education, and venture capital initiatives. Passionate about fostering growth and innovation, he engages participants at Moon through dynamic, hands-on learning experiences that drive real-world impact. His interests lie in business innovation, design, and strategy.<hr>“Are you a Monday person or a Friday person?”That was a question posed by Dr. Paris de L’Etraz, Managing Director of the Venture Lab at IE Business School, during my MBA. He explained that Monday people leap out of bed, excited to take on the week, while Friday people count down the days until the weekend. That question stuck with me.Over time, as I worked with entrepreneurs and innovators, I found myself shifting from a Friday person to a Monday person. What made the difference? It was ikigai—the Japanese concept of finding your “reason for being.” During my MBA, we focused a lot on frameworks like ikigai. I discovered in the process that my mission lies in designing impactful learning experiences for entrepreneurs in Japan and beyond.For early-stage entrepreneurs,&nbsp;ikigai isn’t just about personal fulfillment—it’s a practical tool for identifying meaningful problems to solve. Let’s explore how ikigai can guide your entrepreneurial journey and help you focus on challenges that truly matter.&nbsp;<h3>The Cultural Roots of Ikigai: More Than Just Unicorn Chasing</h3>In Japan, ikigai isn’t about becoming a billionaire overnight chasing the next unicorn. It’s more about finding the balance between the small, everyday joys and your contributions to society. Think of it as the antidote to burnout: you’re still hustling, but with heart and soul, not just caffeine and all-nighters.In the West, ikigai often gets hyped up as the “one true purpose” you must find, as if you’re on a treasure hunt for a magical career. Spoiler alert: it’s not that dramatic. The Japanese approach is much more grounded—about gradually integrating joy, purpose, and responsibility. Understanding this makes ikigai way more approachable, especially for entrepreneurs who might feel the weight of building the “perfect” business. Spoiler #2: there’s no perfect, just progress.&nbsp;<h3>Case Studies:&nbsp;</h3>To see how ikigai can play out in real life, we can look at two entrepreneurs who built meaningful businesses rooted in purpose.Yvon Chouinard, Founder of Patagonia – Where Passion Meets Profit<figure class="image image-style-side image_resized" style="width:25%;"><img style="aspect-ratio:400/580;" src="https://moon-website-prod-images.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/Ivon_36795d64c9.jpg" alt="Ivon.jpg" width="400" height="580"><figcaption><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Yvon_Chouinard_by_Tom_Frost.jpg">A photo of Yvon Chouinard by Tom Frost</a></figcaption></figure>Yvon Chouinard didn’t start Patagonia with dollar signs in his eyes. He just wanted to make rock-climbing gear that wouldn’t fall apart. His love for nature and talent for crafting quality outdoor products guided him. The profits? They came second. By staying true to his values, Patagonia evolved into a pioneer in sustainable business.Chouinard didn’t just build a brand—he reshaped consumerism. Patagonia’s “Don’t Buy This Jacket” campaign didn’t push products; it pushed a mindset centered on purpose and environmental activism. By finding the sweet spot where passion, profit, and societal impact meet, Chouinard embodied ikigai—and changed the game.&nbsp;Yoshiharu Hoshino, CEO of Hoshino Resorts – Tradition Meets Innovation<figure class="image image-style-side image_resized" style="width:25%;"><img style="aspect-ratio:1200/1200;" src="https://moon-website-prod-images.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/Hoshino_56e54f93d5.jpeg" alt="Hoshino.jpeg" width="1200" height="1200"><figcaption><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Yoshiharu_Hoshino.JPG">A photo of Yoshiharu Hoshino</a></figcaption></figure>Yoshiharu Hoshino didn’t just inherit a family business—he transformed it in a fiercely competitive market. As global hotel chains poured into Japan, reshaping the hospitality industry with foreign investment, Hoshino faced a challenge: how to preserve Japanese culture while competing with these international brands. Instead of following the foreign model, he doubled down on Japan’s rich traditions, evolving his family’s century-old hot spring resort into a globally recognized luxury brand.His approach wasn’t about resisting change but about weaving innovation into the fabric of tradition. By embracing modern travelers’ needs without losing sight of Japan’s cultural heritage, Hoshino not only survived but thrived. His journey is an embodiment of ikigai—where passion, skill, and purpose align to create something meaningful and sustainable, even in the face of fierce competition.&nbsp;<h3>Using Ikigai to Find the Right Problem for Your Startup</h3><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:50%;"><img style="aspect-ratio:600/600;" src="https://moon-website-prod-images.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/Diagramo_de_Ikigajo_en_svg_e0f6855683.png" alt="Diagramo_de_Ikigajo_-en.svg.png" width="600" height="600"><figcaption><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Diagramo_de_Ikigajo_-en.svg">Image of finding the IKIGAI by Eugenio Hansen, OFS</a></figcaption></figure>Ikigai isn’t just about personal fulfillment; it can be used as a roadmap for identifying business problems worth solving. By breaking down four key elements—Passion, Profession, Mission, and Vocation—you can spot a problem that resonates with you and has real market potential.&nbsp; Let’s break it down:&nbsp;<h4>1. What You Love (Passion)</h4>Passion is what keeps you going when things get tough—and trust me, they will get tough. The more you care about the problem, the more likely you are to stay motivated.What you can do: Make a list of industries, causes, or issues that get you fired up. Love technology? Maybe dive into problems in AI, privacy, or digital ethics. Passionate about sustainability? You could consider gaps in renewable energy or waste management. Focus on problems you’d be excited to tackle every day—because if you’re not motivated, you’ll probably move on to something else the second things get hard.<h4>2. What You’re Good At (Profession)</h4>Passion’s great, but solving problems requires expertise. Enthusiasm alone won’t get the job done—you need the skills to make it happen.What you can do: Map out your core competencies. If you’re a data whiz, maybe there’s an opportunity in analytics or finance. If you’re a designer, you could consider solving problems in usability or innovation. Match the problem to your skills,&nbsp;so you’re not just offering ideas but real, workable solutions.<h4>3. What the World Needs (Mission)</h4>A great problem is one the world is practically begging for a solution to. Being passionate and skilled is fantastic, but if the problem isn’t relevant, it’s going nowhere.What you can do: Talk to potential users and uncover their biggest frustrations. What gaps do they see? If people are saying, “Yes, please fix this,” you’re on the right track. Focus on problems with a clear demand for change.&nbsp;The more urgent the need, the more likely a solution will succeed.<h4>4. What You Can Be Paid For (Vocation)</h4>Lastly, if no one is willing to pay for your solution, it’s a hobby, not a business. You need a clear path to monetization..What you can do: Look into the market—are customers willing to pay for a solution? Is there a growing need? Whether through subscriptions, one-time purchases, or services, it needs to make money. Focus on problems that not only resonate with your skills and passion but also have a clear path to revenue.&nbsp;<h3>Conclusion: Using Ikigai to Find the Right Problem</h3>The ikigai framework isn’t just a tool for personal fulfillment; it can be a strategic method for finding meaningful, solvable problems that have real market demand. As you embark on this journey, remember that aligning your work with your purpose will sustain you through the ups and downs, helping you stay grounded in what truly matters.So, what are you waiting for? The world—and your next great business idea—are waiting for your ikigai to emerge.<hr> Moon Creative Lab offers several programs to support startups. If you are interested in transforming your own business idea and growth, please check out the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mooncreativelab.com/?utm_source=blog&amp;utm_medium=CTA241023&amp;utm_id=storytelling+by+javier">top page</a>.

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In a world buzzing with discussions on sustainability, Tommy Sekiguchi stands out with his mission to transform Japan's coffee scene into a beacon of sustainability, challenging consumers to rethink their purchasing habits.Key Learnings:<ul><li>Starting With a Spark</li><li>Diving Deep With Learning Labs</li><li>Innovating Through the Think Coffee Experiment</li></ul><figure class="image"><img src="https://moon-website-prod-images.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/image4_1d4862472d.jpg" alt="image4.jpg"><figcaption>Picture of Tommy graduating from Spark</figcaption></figure><h3>Starting With a Spark</h3>Leveraging his background of over 20 years in the Food &amp; Beverage industry, Tommy Sekiguchi embarked on his sustainable journey in Fall 2023 during Spark, Moon’s intensive educational program that guides entrepreneurs through the process of human-centered innovative business design. His current research at the Center for Global Commons (CGC) of the University of Tokyo fueled his quest to tackle the problem of Japanese consumers’ lack of motivation to buy sustainable food products. He thoroughly examined this issue and developed various solutions and an accompanying business model to see it through. His efforts culminated in a landing page that vividly presented his innovative approach to enhancing the customer experience and boosting interest in sustainable purchases, using coffee shops as a model case.<figure class="image"><img src="https://moon-website-prod-images.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/image1_dba085542b.jpg" alt="image1.jpg"><figcaption>Picture of Tommy in the Learning Lab</figcaption></figure><h3>Diving Deep With Moon Learning Labs</h3>Post-Spark, Tommy delved into the consumer psyche with Moon’s Learning Labs, hands-on, interactive workshops dedicated to the generation and refinement of business, product, or service concepts. He crafted personas such as Sustainers, who are focused on environmental impact; Tasters, who are in pursuit of quality; Trenders, those that are driven by social trends; and Neighbors, the local community members around coffee shops. Using these personas, Tommy and his team, along with Moon Mates, dissected the current customer journey and brainstormed ways to run experiments with it, hoping to change the journey and highlight pathways for sustainable awareness and purchasing.<figure class="image"><img src="https://moon-website-prod-images.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/image2_606f83d552.jpg" alt="image2.jpg"><figcaption>Moon’s People Transformation Team visiting think coffee Japan</figcaption></figure><figure class="image"><img src="https://moon-website-prod-images.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/image3_1174952f1f.jpg" alt="image3.jpg"><figcaption>Picture of the experiment at think coffee Japan</figcaption></figure><h3>Innovating Through the “Think Coffee” Experiment</h3>Tommy selected "Think Coffee Japan" in Kanda, Tokyo as the initial site for his experiment. This location is a mere 5-minute walk from Mitsui &amp; Co.’s headquarters, his career stomping grounds. Based on his learnings from the Learning Lab, he and his team designed an engaging sustainable journey for customers, who were presented with two choices upon entering: embark on a sustainable path to learn about coffee and its sustainable practices, or proceed directly to the register.&nbsp;The sustainable path that Tommy implemented comprised four distinct steps:&nbsp;1. Feel: Customers were presented with visual stories of the farms on a large display, offering an immersive experience.2. Meet: This step provided a hands-on experience with the coffee beans, alongside digital displays showing detailed information about the farms and images of the farmers.3. Think: During this phase, customers received one of five sustainability-related messages, labeled as “Simple,” “Negative,” “Positive,” “Fun,” and “Quiz.” These messages aimed to engage customers in considering various sustainability challenges.4. Decide: Finally, participants took a survey and decided whether to make a donation or receive 100 yen as a reward for joining the experiment.&nbsp;During the experiment, held from March 8 to 20, Tommy collected 155 responses. Of these, 22 participants chose to receive 100 yen, while 133 opted to donate to farmers in Nicaragua, Colombia, and Ethiopia. He is currently analyzing this data to refine his future experiments and further develop his business model idea. This work is part of his research at the CGC and aims to explore how businesses can encourage more ethical consumption among consumers.Tommy's ongoing journey is more than an experiment; it's a movement towards embedding sustainability in Japanese food culture and beyond. His work underscores the power of thoughtful innovation in transforming everyday habits into impactful, sustainable actions - one sip at a time!<hr>If you’re interested in our educational Spark program or Learning Lab workshops for your or your organization, check out our&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mooncreativelab.com/">website</a> or reach us at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:hello@mooncreativelab.com">hello@mooncreativelab.com</a>.&nbsp;

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<h3>Key Learnings</h3><ul><li>Rapid testing is necessary when beginning a venture.</li><li>When something isn’t working, reiterate and pivot.</li><li>User testing is crucial to finding your venture’s direction.</li></ul><figure class="image"><img src="https://moon-website-prod-images.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/Dell_bae8f30afe.jpg" alt="Dell.jpg"><figcaption>Dell dela Torre, co-founder of Inna Circle</figcaption></figure>Moon Venture Inna Circle is an online child care matching service created by Grace Aldas and Dell dela Torre, two women who faced struggles as new mothers in the Philippines. Looking for a community to help address common struggles that come up when raising a child, Grace and Dell created Inna Circle to help themselves and others throughout new parenthood in the Philippines and across South East Asia.Being a modern mother today can truly be challenging. Balancing a full-time job and managing a household is no easy feat. New mothers Grace and Dell did not want to have to choose between their careers and ensuring their children received proper care. As full-time employees of Mitsui, they found themselves in this predicament during the COVID-19 pandemic. Attending regular work meetings, juggling daily tasks, and having to homeschool kids – all while trying to find time to work on Inna Circle – was an overwhelming daily routine for both of them. To help Grace and Dell achieve their vision for Inna Circle during this challenging time, I joined their team when they started incubation at Moon.&nbsp; Their original idea was to develop a product or service that could support working mothers, providing them with some peace of mind while reducing the stress of juggling child care and work. Our initial focus was to address the most pressing issues many mothers face: finding a peaceful balance between focusing on work and the duty of taking care of their kids.<figure class="image"><img src="https://moon-website-prod-images.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/Inna_Circle_group_c6bf31d65d.jpg" alt="Inna Circle group.jpg"><figcaption>The Inna Circle team</figcaption></figure><h3>Adapting to Challenges</h3>Both joining Moon Creative Lab and building a product from the ground up were unique and challenging experiences for Grace and Dell. They had to quickly adapt to changes in mindset, working style, and business environment that were quite different from their regular day jobs. We also felt the challenge of managing our time wisely as we stretched across different time zones, putting pressure on when we could meet on Zoom calls and work together as a team.Another challenge the team faced was during the product-definition phase. We initially had a concept to provide child care sessions to help mothers gain more personal free-time. We tested this by running a three-day child care pop-up in Manila and followed these sessions with user interviews to help us better understand expectations. We soon learned that this concept would be difficult to scale because building a space takes a lot of time and resources, especially when compared to building something digitallyThis led the team to reevaluate our approach and focus on the core problem mothers faced: the desire to work on their personal endeavors while ensuring their children were well taken care of. &nbsp;<h3>Becoming Our Own Customers</h3>With these results, the team regrouped and came up with a new product idea: a digital platform for booking caretakers, or “childminders,” whenever needed. However, this idea presented its own challenge of differentiating itself from existing child care services in the Philippines. Through interviews, we discovered that many interviewees had already hired caregivers at home but were dissatisfied with their quality, leading to trust issues. Mothers felt that many caregivers lacked proper education and qualifications, and were given the position out of necessity.This revelation provided valuable insight on how to position Inna Circle services and win the market: by offering high-quality childminders who could benefit both mothers and children.Before committing fully to this new product direction, Grace and Dell tested the service by becoming their own customers and also acting as childminders for other mothers. The results were highly positive, with mothers expressing satisfaction and the ability to focus on other important tasks. &nbsp;<h3>International Growth Challenges</h3>Another significant challenge, perhaps the most substantial one, was that Inna Circle marked Moon's first venture outside of Japan with real customers ready to pay for the service. However, the team ran into some complex legal barriers regarding international payment business models when they officially launched.After extensive effort and communication, Grace and Dell managed to navigate these financial barriers and were finally ready to launch Inna Circle in Manila. The entire process was arduous, but it provided valuable lessons in dealing with business licenses internationally and how to support global ventures in the future.<figure class="image"><img src="https://moon-website-prod-images.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/Dell_and_Grace_ffee39ac55.jpg" alt="Dell and Grace.jpg"><figcaption>Grace Aldas and Dell dela Torre, founders of Inna Circle</figcaption></figure><h3>Lessons Learned</h3>The experience of rapid testing, quick decision-making, and agile pivoting became valuable lessons for Grace, Dell, and the entire team. As a designer, I learned the significance of user testing and encouraged the team to change direction when necessary.Grace and Dell also learned the importance of directly engaging with users, adopting a human-centered approach, and embracing the concept of rapid iteration and pivoting when something isn’t working. They pushed themselves outside of their comfort zones to connect with the startup industry in the Philippines and engage with potential business partners – experiences that were entirely new to them.On a personal level, building a business alongside Grace and Dell has been an incredibly valuable learning experience. From directly interacting with customers (mothers and childminders) and experimenting scrappily with limited resources, we truly ran like a startup. And it all resulted in us achieving our goals and learning the most from our users. Our process involved continuous learning, testing, pivoting, building quickly, and validating our market. It was crucial to remain honest about what is working, what isn't, identifying obstacles, and not being afraid to ask for help.Inna Circle serves as an ideal role venture model that others can learn from. The service already boasts at least 120 bookings per month, a number that is still increasing to this day. The team launched a new landing page at the end of August with improved access to the booking platform, resulting in an increase in the number of users and childminders in the service pool. &nbsp;What’s NextInna Circle is still in the process of growing its business in the Philippines. The next big step is pursuing B2B collaborations with large companies (over 2,000 employees) in the Philippines.Learn more about Inna Circle at <a href="https://www.theinnacircle.com/">theinnacircle.com</a> and stay connected through their <a href="https://www.facebook.com/InnaCircle.ph">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/innacircle.ph/">Instagram</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;Yo Yeh, Senior Designer<img class="image_resized" style="width:25%;" src="https://moon-website-prod-images.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/Moon_Creative_Lab_Yo_2_1_1_e61332b6a9.jpg" alt="Moon Creative Lab_Yo_2 (1) 1.jpg">

Breaking Preconceptions To Reach the Core of the Challenge

My Odyssey at Moon Creative Lab: Connecting, Innovating, and Transforming Beyond Boundaries

Life by Design: Everyday Problem-Solving With a Creative Mindset

The AI Era: A New Chapter for Designers

The Facilitator’s Playbook: Tips, Tricks, and Takeaways

How an Intrapreneur Develops an Entrepreneurial Mindset

Finding Your Ikigai: The Secret Sauce to Building a Meaningful Business

Brewing Sustainability: Tommy Sekiguchi's Quest for Sustainable Coffee Consumption in Japan

Transforming Struggle Into Success: Empowering Moms in Business

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