#Japan #Tokyo #FORGE Program #TSI Corporation

Introduction

The innovative acceleration program named Forge is officially welcoming applications for its second cohort. Organized by TSI Corporation, headquartered in the heart of Kyoto, this program aims to empower hardware startups through robust support and collaboration, ultimately boosting their potential in the manufacturing sector.

The Forge program operates under the auspices of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, as a part of its Global Innovation Cluster Challenge Project (TIB CATAPULT). This initiative is designed to bridge the gap between small to medium-sized manufacturing businesses and larger corporations, enabling technology advancements and global outreach.

Program Details

An important online explanation session is scheduled for April 22, 2026, where interested parties can gain insights into the program. Those involved or interested in the manufacturing domain are encouraged to register for this valuable opportunity.

Application Form

Details of the Explanation Session

What is Forge?

The Forge program is designed to significantly support the growth and cooperation of hardware startups, leveraging the strengths of smaller manufacturing businesses while utilizing the assets of larger enterprises. Through this synergy, the program fosters innovation in products and services, facilitating global expansion and impact.

Benefits of Participation

Participants in the Forge program can enjoy a myriad of benefits, including:

• - Comprehensive manufacturing support with vouchers up to 2 million yen.
• - Collaborative opportunities to work on Proof of Concept (PoC) projects with larger corporations.
• - Access to investor networks for matchmaking and fundraising assistance.

Participation Criteria

To qualify for the Forge program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• - Startup Stage: Applicants should be beyond the seed stage, having developed a pilot product or prototype.
• - Field: Open to all hardware startups irrespective of their specific niches.
• - Location: Must be based in Tokyo or have intentions to operate in Tokyo in the future.

Online Explanation Session

The upcoming online session will provide a comprehensive overview of the Forge acceleration program. Hardware startups aiming for manufacturing partnerships or PoC projects with large corporations, as well as those interested in the manufacturing sector, are welcomed to participate.

Session Details:

• - Date: April 22, 2026
• - Time: 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM (Japan time)
• - Cost: Free
• - Location: Online (Zoom)

Who Should Attend?

This session is targeted at:

• - Hardware startups in the seed stage or beyond with pilot products or prototypes ready.
• - Startups looking for manufacturing partners, PoC collaborators, or large corporate partnerships.
• - Individuals who are interested in the manufacturing industry.

Registration

Please register using the URL provided above. You will receive a participation link via email after signing up.

Details of the Explanation Session

About the Speaker

Takahiro Kumagai, the President and CEO of TSI Corporation, holds a doctorate from Osaka University in optical and material physics. He has extensive experience in research and entrepreneurship, having launched multiple university-affiliated ventures. Since joining TSI in 2015 and assuming the role of President in November 2021, he has actively supported venture investments, hands-on assistance, and partnerships between large companies and startups to foster innovation within the sector.

About TSI Corporation

Company Name: TSI Corporation
Kyoto Headquarters: 112 Kamitobamachi, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto 604-8206
Tokyo Branch: 4F VORT Suidobashi III, 2-8-11 Kanda Sarugakucho, Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo 101-0064
CEO: Takahiro Kumagai
Established: June 1, 2018 (Founded in 2002)
Business Activities: TSI Corporation is an incubation company committed to shaping Japan's future through business development, including fundraising support, strategic partnerships, M&A advisory, recruitment, and new technology market research.
Company Website: TSI Japan

For further inquiries, please reach out to:
TSI Corporation
Tel: 050-5526-4100
Email: [email protected]