New English-Speaking Chapter Serving Japan’s International Entrepreneurial Community is Latest to Join EO’s Global Network

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ALEXANDRIA, VIRGINA, USA (19 May 2026) EO Kansai Metropolitan, an international, English-speaking chapter based in Japan’s Kansai region, in the southern-central part of Japan's main island of Honshu, is the latest addition to Entrepreneurs’ Organization’s (EO) rapidly growing presence in North Asia and Japan. The chapter is the 15^th within EO’s North Asia region and reflects the organization’s continued commitment to supporting globally minded entrepreneurs in culturally diverse business hubs.

Kansai, an area that encompasses the cities of Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe, is home to nearly 25 million people and more than 500,000 small and midsize businesses. EO Kansai Metropolitan launched with 35 members, drawing a mix of entrepreneurs who are new to EO and experienced members from other nearby chapters. The existing members who joined the chapter primarily hail from EO Osaka, EO Kyoto, and EO Tokyo Metropolitan, with the latter two serving as host chapters supporting the launch. The diverse member base spans 12 industries, including international trade and travel and hospitality.

“Kansai is a region with deep cultural roots and a rapidly expanding international business community,” says David Chan, North Asia Regional Chair and a 12-year member of EO through the EO China East chapter. “Establishing an English-speaking chapter there creates a new gateway for entrepreneurs from around the world to connect and build lasting peer networks, while strengthening our presence in one of Japan’s most dynamic economic regions.”

Kansai’s growing international population makes it uniquely suited for an English-speaking chapter. While Kansai has fewer foreign residents than Japan’s Kanto region — which includes Tokyo — Kansai’s foreign population is growing at the fastest rate of any area in the country. Historically, the region has welcomed immigrants from abroad, fostering cultural openness and diversity that continue to shape Kansai’s entrepreneurial ecosystem today.

As part of its early efforts to grow globally, EO established its first chapter in Japan — EO Tokyo — in 1995. Thanks to rapid growth and entrepreneurial enthusiasm, Japan has since evolved to become EO’s 11^th distinct global region and is home to 18 chapters. (“Metropolitan” chapters that encompass larger metro areas like EO Kansai Metropolitan remain a part of the North Asia region.)

Building on this legacy, EO Kansai Metropolitan has established its official working language as English, while committing to an inclusive culture that allows Japanese entrepreneurs who are not fluent in the language to still participate confidently. The chapter has set long-term goals that emphasize diversity and cross-cultural connection, including a target of reaching an even split of Japanese and non-Japanese members. 

“From ancient times to the present, the Kansai region has historically welcomed many immigrants,” says new chapter President Takayoshi “Jack” Todo, a 10-year EO member, founder of an online marketing company, and consultant supporting international companies entering the Japanese market. “As a result, the area has developed a high level of cultural openness and diversity, and today many international entrepreneurs reside here. We believe this region is uniquely positioned to establish EO’s English-speaking chapter and transform Kansai into a truly international economic metropolis. This transformation is important not only for the global economy, but also for Japan’s economy and for EO itself.”

Jack has long played an active role for EO in Japan, including serving on regional boards and contributing to the launch of EO Kyoto. His participation in global EO programs inspired him to deepen international connections within Kansai and create a platform for both Japanese and non-Japanese entrepreneurs to learn, connect, and grow together.

The chapter will begin hosting events designed to bring together domestic and international entrepreneurs, including gatherings in April and June at Patina Osaka, located adjacent to the historic Osaka Castle Park. These events serve as early touchpoints for community building, cultural exchange, and peer connection.

Please see here for more information on EO chapters and the experience of joining one.

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Notes to Editors:

About Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO) - Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO) is a global, not-for-profit membership community of 20,000 leading business founders and owners, representing more than 100 countries and 220+ chapters worldwide. Founded in 1987, EO helps entrepreneurs move the world forward by unlocking their full potential through the power of trusted connections, leadership development, and premier learning opportunities that support the whole person. 

About EO in North Asia and Japan:

·         Chapters: 33

·         Members: 2,517

·         Median tenure: 3.58 years

·         Median EO member age: 45

·         Median business revenue: US$4 million

For more information or to get involved, follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube, or Facebook, and visit our website: www.eonetwork.org