#Japan #California #Shibuya #Shibuya Startups #Jessica Caloza

California and Shibuya's Innovative Partnership

Set against the vibrant backdrop of Shibuya, a significant networking reception is on the horizon. Scheduled for April 1, 2026, this event will host a delegation from California, spearheaded by Assemblymember Jessica Caloza, who also chairs the Asian California Trade and Investment Committee. This initiative represents a collaboration aimed at fostering stronger connections between the innovation ecosystems of Shibuya and California.

Event Overview

The event, titled California State Public-Private Delegation x Shibuya Startups Joint Networking Event, will be an invite-only reception taking place at the Sakura Stage in Shibuya, Tokyo. Approximately 30 participants from various sectors, including government representatives, legislators, and industry leaders, are expected to attend this prestigious gathering.

With the increasing necessity for global collaboration in innovation, particularly in startup ecosystems, this event seeks to enhance dialogue and partnerships between California—a global hotspot for startups—and Shibuya, an emerging hub for such enterprises in Japan. The goals are clear: facilitating exchange among diverse stakeholders such as companies, investors, and policymakers and establishing a foundation for future engagements. This networking opportunity is not just about socializing; it's a launchpad for ongoing collaborations between the two regions.

Background and Objectives

In recent years, the need for international cooperation in innovation, especially among startups, has become crucial. The partnership between California, known for its vast startup landscape, and Japan's burgeoning startup ecosystem represented by Shibuya holds significant potential for new business opportunities and investments.

By promoting direct exchanges between political and economic leaders from California and startups along with corporate and governmental representatives from Shibuya, the initiative aims to deepen mutual understanding and lay the groundwork for tangible collaboration in innovation. The long-term vision includes creating sustainable frameworks for ongoing collaborations that would bolster support for startups, investment opportunities, and policy partnerships.

Perspectives from Event Organizers

Jessica Caloza

As the California Assemblymember representing the 52nd District, and chair of the Asian California Trade and Investment Committee, Jessica expressed, “I am proud to lead this delegation in visiting Japan, to deepen our partnerships with global leaders at the forefront of innovation and economic growth. Engaging directly with government officials, industry experts, and the vibrant startup community in Shibuya will help us reinforce California’s international relations and bring home advanced solutions supporting workers, SMEs, and emerging industries. This visit underscores our commitment to fostering international cooperation that promotes opportunity, sustainability, and shared prosperity between California and Japan.”

Katsuro Tasaka

Katsuro Tasaka, the CEO of Shibuya Startups Corporation, emphasized, “Having operated in California for over a decade, I recognize the immense value in building business relations between Japan and California, starting from Shibuya. This event signifies an essential kickoff where leaders in the political and economic spheres from both regions can unite and take the first crucial step toward specific collaborations including startups and investment. Moving forward, we aim to establish a framework for mutual cooperation in the field of innovation, further advancing Japan’s startup ecosystem.”

About Shibuya Startups Corporation

Founded in February 2023, Shibuya Startups Corporation aims to nurture and create an international startup community in Shibuya. The establishment comes through investments from Shibuya City, Tokyu Corporation, Tokyu Real Estate, and GMO Internet Group. Targeting early-stage startups worldwide tackling Japan’s unique challenges, including its aging population and logistics issues, the company is dedicated to supporting foreign startups aiming to enter the Japanese market and contributing to the growth of Japan's startup ecosystem.

Company Profile

• - Name: Shibuya Startups Corporation
• - Established: February 2023
• - Business: Investment in early-stage global startups and support for entering the Japanese market, focusing on community and movement creation.
• - CEO: Katsuro Tasaka
• - Official Website: Shibuya Startups
• - LinkedIn: Shibuya Startups on LinkedIn

Contact Information

For inquiries, please reach out to:
Shibuya Startups Corporation
Email: [email protected]