Ahlers Center Partners with The Brink SBDC to Help Hitachi Executives Explore San Diego's Startup Innovation Ecosystem

The University of San Diego (USD) welcomed key executives from Hitachi Corporation to the Ahlers Center for International Business on October 16, 2024, marking a significant step in the ongoing collaboration between the two organizations. The meeting served as a platform to explore potential partnerships, exchange insights, and strengthen ties between USD and Hitachi.

Hitachi's visit to San Diego was driven by their corporate venture group's mission to scout the local startup ecosystem. With a keen interest in understanding the dynamics of thriving innovation hubs, the Hitachi team sought to learn from USD's expertise and connections within the San Diego community. This visit builds upon an existing relationship between USD and Hitachi, which has already facilitated research projects and valuable internship opportunities for USD students in Japan.

"We are thrilled to host Hitachi and share our insights on San Diego's vibrant startup ecosystem," said Robert N. Eberhart, PhD, Associate Professor of International Business and Faculty Director of the Ahlers Center. "This visit underscores the value of our partnership with Hitachi and our shared commitment to fostering innovation and global collaboration."

The meeting agenda featured a dynamic lineup of speakers who provided diverse perspectives on San Diego's startup landscape. Amy Duncan, Director of The Brink SBDC, offered a comprehensive overview of the region's innovation ecosystem, highlighting key players, resources, and opportunities.

Antonio Formacion, Assistant Director for International Business Programs - Ahlers Center for International Business provided details on international business academic programs and study abroad opportunities in Japan while Diane Ice, Associate Director of Custom Programs, Ahlers Center for International Business, explained executive education programs. 

Faculty members from USD's Knauss School of Business also contributed their expertise. Carsten Zimmerman, Associate Professor of Management, discussed his research on resource management, ambidextrous practices, and capabilities in strategic management and operations. Nichole Wismann, Assistant Professor of Management, shared her insights on how organizations address interconnected social and environmental challenges, such as climate change. Both Zimmerman and Wismann are scheduled to visit Hitachi in November for further collaboration and knowledge exchange.

Hitachi's delegation emphasized their keen interest in understanding the specific factors that contribute to San Diego's success, particularly in sectors like biotechnology and the intersection of pharma and synthetic biology. This knowledge will inform Hitachi's strategies for building and engaging with innovation networks in San Diego and beyond.

The meeting concluded with a lively discussion over a meal featuring local Mexican cuisine, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose. Hitachi's visit continued the following day with a meeting at EvoNexus, a prominent local incubator, further immersing them in San Diego's entrepreneurial environment.

This visit from Hitachi signifies the growing recognition of San Diego as a hub for innovation and the important role USD's Ahlers Center plays in connecting global corporations with the region's vibrant startup ecosystem. The collaboration between USD and Hitachi promises to create valuable opportunities for students, faculty, and the broader San Diego community while contributing to the advancement of technology and innovation on a global scale.