But this is exactly the problem. In the scenario you describe, the company is sponsoring you. In the situation that the OP is describing, they want to start a new company. But they can't do that without having an employee who is a resident. And they can't work for the company without having the company sponsor them. It's a catch 22. Like I said, I would check with a lawyer, but I'm 99% sure it can't be done. If you are already have a working status in the correct field, then it is no problem. But you can't change from one to the other without sponsorship. That was exactly the problem I faced trying to change my status from instructor to engineer and also trying to work for my own company without sponsoring myself.

Edit: I should also point out that hiring a part time Japanese resident fixes all the problems. But that was what the question was all about.

Ah, got it. If you're a student you can apply for a permit that allows you to work part-time. But I don't know if a part-timer would count as an employee of the new company.

Hmm... Actually, it might... Good point!