#Japan #Tokyo #Global Startups #Tokyo Innovation Base #TIB CATAPULT

Introducing TIB CATAPULT: A Gateway for Global Innovation

In a bid to ignite innovation from the heart of Tokyo, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government has established the Tokyo Innovation Base (TIB), a dynamic hub designed to support startups both domestically and internationally. TIB acts as a platform where startups and their supporters can connect, fostering an ecosystem of collaboration and growth.

As part of this initiative, the TIB CATAPULT project is set to launch in FY2024, with a focus on supporting high-potential technologies and industries. This program aims to create a robust community known as the “Innovation Cluster.” Through collaboration among large corporations, investors, and various stakeholders, the project will cultivate global startups, leveraging the unique strengths of each participant.

Call for Clusters

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government is now calling for applications to form new clusters within this initiative. Here are the key details:

• - Focus on Growth: The project will focus on communities that aim to nurture global startups in promising sectors.
• - Participation Limit: A maximum of six clusters will be selected.
• - Global Support: Among these, one cluster will be designated as a “Global Promotion Cluster,” connected with prominent overseas support entities, such as foreign universities and accelerators, to ensure world-class support.

Startup Support Implementation

Selected clusters will form partnerships with the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and will work collaboratively over approximately two years and eight months to identify, nurture, and grow startups. The government will provide comprehensive support to ensure tangible progress in their initiatives and encourage the creation of notable projects, implementing advanced technologies. Support is tied to the achievement of specific outcome indicators, with funding structured as follows:

• - Cluster Agreement Funding: Up to ¥300 million over three fiscal years for six selected clusters.
• - Bonus Funding for Global Promotion Cluster: An additional amount of up to ¥300 million over three fiscal years for the one selected global cluster.

Moreover, the Tokyo government will facilitate networking opportunities and mentorship among the clusters, enhancing the collaborative environment for participants.

Application Period

The application period for forming new clusters will begin on May 27, 2025, and close on June 16, 2025, at 5 PM. The selected clusters will be announced in July 2025, followed by the signing of agreements. The initiatives and support for each cluster are expected to commence in August 2025.

Project Duration and Additional Information

The implementation of the TIB CATAPULT project will continue until the end of FY2029. For detailed information on the application process and requirements, please refer to the official guidelines available on the TIB CATAPULT website: https://tibcatapult.metro.tokyo.lg.jp.

What is TIB CATAPULT?

The term “CATAPULT” symbolizes a launching device, representing the aspiration to create a strong foundation from which startups connected to TIB will propel into the global market.

The TIB CATAPULT initiative aligns with the Tokyo 2050 Strategy, particularly the strategy to nurture globally competitive startups. By channeling resources and expertise into emerging business domains such as robotics, life sciences, and climate tech, Tokyo is committed to building a vibrant and innovative startup ecosystem that thrives on a global scale.