#Japan #Tokyo #Intellectual Property #VC-IPAS #JPO

JPO Launches VC-IPAS Program for Startups

The Japan Patent Office (JPO) is set to commence the application process for its
"Venture Capital Intellectual Property Acceleration Program (VC-IPAS)" on May 16, 2025. This initiative aims to enhance support for startups through the allocation of intellectual property (IP) specialists, including attorneys and patent agents, to venture capital firms (VCs) that invest in and support these businesses.

Program Overview

VC-IPAS is designed to help VCs enhance their support for startups by providing access to experts who will assist in developing IP strategies aligned with business objectives. The program targets VCs that seek to improve their understanding and practical skills regarding intellectual property, thereby boosting both their own capabilities and the startups they fund.

Given the increasing importance of IP protection and utilization in the startup ecosystem, VCs are expected to consider IP factors during investment evaluations and collaborate with IP experts to enhance their growth support services. This collaboration aims to mitigate risks and bolster startup development through informed investment decisions aligned with robust IP strategies.

The core offering for the current year includes a six-month engagement, approximately 120 hours, allowing VCs to integrate IP strategies into their operational frameworks. For those interested in experiencing IP support without committing to a full engagement, shorter trial periods are also offered.

Application Details

Application Period

• - Start: May 16, 2025
• - End: June 16, 2025

Number of Selections

• - Selected Firms: 15

Engagement Period

• - Duration: Late August 2025 to March 6, 2026

Note: Dates may change without prior notice.

How to Apply

Interested parties can apply by filling out the designated application form and submitting it via email within the stated application period, as detailed under the contact section.

For more detailed information regarding the program, including application guidelines and forms, visit the JPO website: JPO VC-IPAS 2025.

Informational Sessions and Workshops for VCs

For venture capitalists and capitalists interested in the VC-IPAS program, the JPO will hold informational sessions and two educational workshops. These sessions are designed to enhance understanding of essential IP knowledge and the VC-IPAS program.

Workshop Details

VC-IPAS Info Session 1: "Accelerating Startups Through IP Strategy"

• - Date: May 23, 2025
• - Time: 10:00 - 12:00
• - Format: Hybrid (Zoom)
• - Venue: Vision Center Toranomon
• - Registration Deadline: May 22, 2025
• - Event Details: Peatix Registration

Agenda Highlights:

1. Greetings from the Business Development Office – JPO (5 min)
2. Overview of VC-IPAS – JPO Secretariat (15 min)
3. Basic IP Course "Need for IP in Startups" – Akihiro Takemoto, Patent Attorney (30 min)
4. Panel Discussion with VC-IPAS Participants – Executive Director Yoshiki Sa (25 min)
5. Q&A Session (10 min)
6. Application Process Explanation (15 min)
7. Points of Consideration for Recipients (5 min)
8. Q&A for Application Inquiries (10 min)
9. Introduction of Workshop 2 (5 min)

VC-IPAS Workshop 2: "Accelerating Startups Through IP Strategy"

• - Date: June 9, 2025
• - Time: 13:00 - 15:15
• - Format: Online (Zoom)
• - Registration Deadline: June 6, 2025
• - Event Details: Peatix Registration

Agenda Highlights:

1. Greetings from the Business Development Office – JPO (5 min)
2. Overview of VC-IPAS – JPO Secretariat (10 min)
3. IP Due Diligence Key Points – Gen Yokohama, Minoru International Patent Office (30 min)
4. Benchmark Analysis of Leading Companies’ IP Activities – Satoko Nishida, In-House Hub Tokyo Law Office (30 min)
5. Key IP Strategies for Life Sciences – Kenichi Osawa, International Patent Attorney (30 min)
6. Contract Review Essentials in Startup Support – Masahiro Matsushita, Nishimura Asahi Law Office (30 min)

This initiative represents a significant step toward fostering a better understanding of IP's role in startup success and enhancing investment practices within the VC community. Through the VC-IPAS program, the JPO endeavors to create a stronger ecosystem that supports innovation and safeguards intellectual property.