#Japan #Tokyo #01Booster #JETRO #Japan Entry

Japan Entry Acceleration Program 2025: A Gateway for Startups

In an exciting development for international innovation, the business creation firm 01Booster in Tokyo has announced a new initiative in collaboration with the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO). Titled the Japan Entry Acceleration Program 2025 (JEAP), this program aims to assist overseas startups in their entrance into the Japanese market, focusing specifically on the fields of regenerative medicine and decarbonization.

The Role of JETRO

For over 20 years, JETRO has played a pivotal role in facilitating the entry of foreign businesses into Japan. Working alongside government bodies, local authorities, universities, and research institutions, JETRO has actively contributed to establishing a robust innovation ecosystem and promoting foreign investment in Japan. The organization identifies sectors with high potential for fostering innovation and resolving societal challenges, explicitly targeting fields like semiconductors, decarbonization, and life sciences.

As part of its strategic efforts, JETRO is launching the JEAP under the international collaboration framework named J-Bridge. This program is focused on supporting overseas startups who aspire to engage with Japanese companies, particularly targeting opportunities for collaboration and partnerships in regenerative medicine and decarbonization.

The Structure of the Program

The JEAP is aimed at nurturing the growth of startups in Japan by providing a structured framework and support through partnerships with existing Japanese corporations. The initiative will focus on two main sectors:
1. Regenerative Medicine: Startups interested in entering the Japanese market will collaborate with domestic Contract Development and Manufacturing Organizations (CDMO) or Contract Research Organizations (CRO) to support drug development endeavors. The program aims to select approximately five startups that exhibit a clear intention to advance drug development in regenerative medicine.

2. Decarbonization: This focus area targets startups that possess solutions addressing specific challenges faced by established corporate partners, known as challenge owners. Similarly, around five qualifying startups will be invited to participate, with a clear path towards tangible projects in Japan.

Challenge Owners in Decarbonization

Some notable challenge owners participating in the JEAP include:

• - ENEOS Xplora: A major energy company focused on comprehensive development and production of oil and natural gas, along with cutting-edge carbon capture technologies aimed at enhancing environmental sustainability.
• - IHI Corporation: This global heavy industry company is engaged in various sectors, offering diverse products and solutions that address resource, energy, and environmental challenges.
• - Kurita Water Industries: A leader in water treatment solutions, providing essential services in wastewater recovery, purifying underground water, and supporting semiconductor manufacturing.
• - NGK Spark Plug Co., Ltd.: Known for its prominent position in the ceramics industry, NGK is committed to developing sustainable technologies focusing on mobility and energy solutions.

Program Timeline

The JEAP will follow a well-defined timeline:

• - Call for Startups:

- Regenerative Medicine: September 8 - October 31, 2025
- Decarbonization: October 1 - October 31, 2025

• - Evaluation Process: October - November 2025
• - Program Duration: September 2025 - March 2026
• - Demo Day: February 2026 in Tokyo

Conclusion

The JEAP is an exciting opportunity for overseas startups looking to enter the Japanese market, particularly in the transformative areas of regenerative medicine and decarbonization. By fostering collaborations between international innovators and established Japanese companies, this initiative promises to cultivate groundbreaking advancements and solutions that address prevalent societal challenges. As the program unfolds, it is expected to generate substantial interest and contribute to the growth of Japan's innovation landscape.

For further details regarding application and participation, please visit 01Booster's official website.