5 Government Initiatives for Startups in Japan
City Pop.
The Bubble Era.
Big hair and shoulder pads.
Tokyo was a city from the future. Blade Runner.
In the fast-moving generation of startups, Japan has fallen behind.
That is changing now.
Here are 5 government initiatives to support Japanese startups:
1. J-Startup Program
The J-Startup program, launched by the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry (METI) in 2018, aims to cultivate the most promising startups in Japan to succeed globally.
Selected startups receive intensive support through public and private sector resources.
This includes access to preferential treatment in government subsidies, procurement opportunities, and support from the "J-Startup Supporters," which consists of large companies, VCs, and accelerators.
The program has supported hundreds of startups, helping them achieve significant milestones and gain international recognition.
2. Startup Visa
The Japanese government offers a startup visa to attract foreign entrepreneurs.
This visa allows entrepreneurs to stay in Japan for up to one year to prepare their businesses. Local governments and approved private organizations, such as venture capitalists and accelerators, can support these entrepreneurs by helping them meet the requirements for a Business Manager Visa.
This initiative aims to bring diverse global talents to Japan and boost the local startup ecosystem.
3. Global Acceleration Hub
Operated by JETRO, the Global Acceleration Hub provides comprehensive support to Japanese startups looking to expand internationally.
The program offers services such as mentoring, introductions to local partners and VCs, and access to co-working spaces across 30 cities worldwide.
It also facilitates numerous business matching events and mentoring sessions, helping startups establish a global presence.
4. Deep Tech Startup Support Programs
Japan places a strong emphasis on supporting deep tech startups, particularly in sectors like climate tech and pharmaceuticals.
The government provides multi-year support, including subsidies for R&D and commercialization efforts. For example, the Deep Tech Startups Support Program in the GX area focuses on long-term R&D projects that address significant economic and social challenges.
This initiative supports startups through stages from prototype development to mass production and market implementation.
5. J-Startup Pavilion at CES 2024
JETRO hosted 30 Japanese startups at the CES 2024 in Las Vegas to showcase their innovations on a global stage.
The Japan (J-Startup) Pavilion featured a new pitch stage, lounge areas for networking, and daily pitch events.
The pavilion created meaningful connections between Japanese startups and international investors, media, and potential business partners.
Ready to launch in Japan?