Sony opens up internal startup program to anyone with an idea

Depending on the opportunity, Sony may invest, strike an alliance, provide office space or support the startups with its own marketing and sales expertise. It may also acquire the businesses

Sony Corp will begin to back entrepreneurs outside the company with money, marketing support and more as it seeks more breakthroughs.

The Tokyo-based company said on Wednesday it would open up an internal accelerator program to external entrepreneurs, including a partnership with Tokyo University under which students can turn ideas into businesses.

Depending on the opportunity, Sony may invest, strike an alliance, provide office space or support the startups with its own marketing and sales expertise. It may also acquire the businesses.