#Japan #Tokyo #Venture Capital #VC-IPAS #Japan Patent Office

Extension of VC-IPAS Application Deadline

The Japan Patent Office has announced an extension of the application deadline for the Intellectual Property Specialist Dispatch Program to Venture Capitals (VC-IPAS). Initially slated for an earlier closure, the new deadline is now June 20, 2025, at 12:59 PM. This change aims to attract more venture capitals to participate and contribute to the growth of startups.

Overview of the Program

The VC-IPAS program is designed to aid venture capital firms in their efforts to support startups through initiatives like investment and management assistance. Within this program, intellectual property specialists—such as patent attorneys and lawyers—are dispatched to venture capitals to create aligned intellectual property strategies that are responsive to business strategies. This initiative not only accelerates the growth of startups but also empowers venture capitalists with better intellectual property literacy and practical skills.

In today’s dynamic business landscape, the significance of protecting and utilizing intellectual property is ever-increasing. It is crucial for venture capitals to assess the investment values of startups with a keen eye on intellectual property. By collaborating with intellectual property experts, venture capitals can mitigate risks while fostering startup growth.

The program is specifically tailored for venture capitals facing challenges related to intellectual property support and those aiming to systematize this kind of assistance within their organizations. By working closely with intellectual property specialists, participating venture capitals can accumulate knowledge and eventually carry out intellectual property operations independently.

This year, the program will primarily offer a six-month course with approximately 120 hours of dispatch time. For those venture capitals interested in a shorter commitment, a short-term course is also available, allowing firms to experience the benefits of VC-IPAS support without fully commiting to the six-month trajectory. If the number of projects or the desired type of support doesn’t align with what the six-month course offers, it is recommended to consider the short-term course.

Application Details

The application deadline has been extended to June 20, 2025. Here are some key details:

• - Application Period: May 16, 2025 - June 20, 2025 (until 12:59 PM)
• - Number of Selected Firms: 15
• - Dispatch Period: Late August 2025 - March 6, 2026

> Please note that the dispatch period is subject to change without prior notice.

To apply, interested venture capitals should fill out the application form and submit it via email to the specified contact address within the application period.

For more detailed information about this program, including the application guidelines and forms, please visit the Japan Patent Office’s official website. The page also contains details regarding the short-term course for venture capitals eager to experience the program’s benefits.

More Resources

An archive of the public explanation meeting and study session held on May 23, 2025, is available for viewing. This session outlined the program's details and provided guidance for those considering applying. Interested parties can access the video through the following YouTube link:
Watch the Archive on YouTube

With the deadline extended and additional formats available, now is the perfect time for venture capitals to consider joining the VC-IPAS program and contribute to the success of budding startups.