#Japan #Tokyo #FoodTech #UnlocX #KitchenTown

Foodtech Cross Bridge Program: A Launchpad to the U.S. Market

In an exciting development for food enthusiasts and entrepreneurs alike, UnlocX has reached a major milestone with the selection of ten innovative startups for its Foodtech Cross Bridge Program. Designed specifically for food industry startups aiming to penetrate the American market, this program seeks to provide the necessary tools and frameworks for success.

The chosen companies were selected through a rigorous vetting process carried out by UnlocX in collaboration with KitchenTown, Leave a Nest, and The Spoon. On February 6, the talented cohort was unveiled, each representing a unique and promising contribution to the future of food.

Selected Startups

The ten startups selected for the program include:

1. ASTRA FOOD PLAN Inc. - Innovating with superheated steam sterilization systems and their flagship product, Gururiko®.
2. Fit & Recovery Inc. - Creating high-quality rice and brown rice flour using proprietary grinding technology.
3. Kitakami Factory Inc. - Developing a sustainable aquaculture system centered around sea urchin regeneration.
4. KULBAY - Manufacturing and selling low-fat, low-sugar, and low-calorie protein ice creams.
5. Nakahara Fisheries Co., Ltd. - Promoting Japan's “dashi culture” worldwide from the region known for its premium bonito flakes.
6. Rakuraku Co., Ltd. - Advocating for circular agriculture through patented mushroom fermentation technologies.
7. Ovgo Inc. - Crafting plant-based American cookies and baked goods.
8. Toy Medical Corporation - Expanding into supplements and food products using salt-adsorbing fiber technology.
9. United Silk Co., Ltd. - Applying silk across multiple fields including food, beauty, and healthcare.
10. Vitom Co., Ltd. - Offering nutritious instant meals such as Onimochi that can be stored at room temperature.

Program Structure

The Foodtech Cross Bridge Program is structured to deliver strategic frameworks, local networks, and consumer testing to help startup founders prepare for the U.S. market. Following the initial selection, companies will undergo a series of workshops and mentoring sessions designed to refine their business strategies and products.

The program includes:

• - Ready 2 Go Program (Feb-Apr 2026): Focused on strategy and team building.
• - Brand & Product Audit (Feb-Apr 2026): Evaluating market fit and competitive advantages.
• - Thematic Workshops (May-Sep 2026): Monthly online workshops educating participants about the U.S. market.
• - US Immersion Week (Aug 10-14, 2026): An intensive program at KitchenTown, providing firsthand insights into American consumer preferences.
• - US Consumer Sensory Tasting (Sep 2026): Gathering feedback directly from U.S. consumers about the products.
• - 1-on-1 Mentoring (Mar-Sep 2026): Tailored support addressing specific themes related to U.S. market expansion.
• - Demo Day (Nov-Dec 2026): A platform for participants to showcase their progress and increase visibility.

A Bridge to Global Impact

According to Hirotaka Tanaka, CEO of UnlocX, the goal of this initiative is to build a global ecosystem that fosters food innovation and helps Japanese startups navigate the complexities of international markets. Tanaka emphasizes that by forming alliances and creating a collective movement, Japanese food technologies and cultures can thrive on a global scale.

Additionally, Rusty Schwartz, CEO of KitchenTown, noted the exceptional talent of Japanese food innovators and their capacity to resonate with American consumers. The program aims to provide the necessary insights and support to help these startups adapt their offerings to meet market demands.

In partnership with top organizations, the Foodtech Cross Bridge Program aims to be a pivotal bridge for food startups aspiring to make a mark in the U.S. food space.

For more information and updates about the program, please visit the official Foodtech Cross Bridge Program website.