[On-Site Report]
A technical support facility created by a small Tokyo-based manufacturer is offering a new type of service for startups. It assists businesses that have ideas for new products, but lack the skills or equipment to turn them into a reality on their own. This episode shows what is possible when innovative ideas are placed in the hands of an experienced manufacturer.

[In Depth: Rising Material Costs a Dilemma for Japan Inc.]
An upsurge in consumer demand is pushing up prices around the globe. And while that's causing concern about inflation in some countries, Japan is still worried about deflation. We look at how soaring material costs are weighing on the economy.

[Global Trends: France's Fresh View on Public Transport]
We travel to northeastern France to check out a new concept in urban transport. It was developed by a group of engineering students who were given the task to create a system that's both low cost and environmentally sound.

[On-Site Report]
Many small and medium-sized manufacturers in Japan have fallen on hard times as they struggle to compete with low-cost imports. This episode features an experienced designer who is proving that innovative designs combined with high-quality products can justify higher prices and help keep local manufacturers in business.

[In Depth: Risky Loans Fuel Worries of Next Financial Crisis]
Central banks are worried that the easy money they've been providing may have brought with it an unwanted side effect. We explore a potential risk to the world economy.

[Global Trends: Indonesian Entrepreneurs Innovate Tradition]
A stunning traditional craft from Indonesia has had trouble adapting to changing times. We take a look at how a new generation of entrepreneurs is reinvigorating its appeal with a modern touch.