#Japan #Tokyo #Global Innovation #Tokyo Startup #ANCHOR SEA

Tokyo's Initiative to Enhance Startup Growth

Tokyo is launching a new program, dubbed the Global Ecosystem Collaboration Project: ANCHOR SEA TOKYO, set to kick off in November 2025. This initiative stems from the upgraded startup strategy known as Global Innovation Strategy 2.0 STARTUP & SCALEUP, which emphasizes the importance of "global" and "scaling up" within its framework. The effort aims to fast-track the global growth of startups based in Tokyo and Japan by bolstering connections with overseas startup ecosystems, thus creating extensive international networks and expanding opportunities for entering foreign markets.

To achieve these goals, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government is partnering with startup support organizations across the globe, referred to as HUBs. These partnerships will facilitate exchange programs and interactions meant to strengthen the bonds between Tokyo's innovative community and global players. Currently, Tokyo is inviting applications from startups eager to participate in a dispatch program linked to a HUB in Singapore, focusing on accessing Singaporean and Southeast Asian markets.

Program Overview

The ANCHOR SEA TOKYO mentioned earlier comprises several key components:
1. Program Name: Singapore Dispatch Program - ANCHOR SEA TOKYO
2. Destination: Singapore (Two dispatches planned)
3. Scheduled Activities:
- Kickoff and Orientation (October 15, 2026): The program begins with an overview and discussions on the course ahead for the selected startups, including travel guides and lectures.
- Domestic Program 1 (Mid-October to Early January): Conducted online, this phase will help generate initial contacts with Singaporean companies, honing pitching techniques, and preparing for business negotiations.
- First Singapore Dispatch (January 18-27, 2027): During this phase, startups will validate product needs, network with stakeholders within the local startup ecosystem, and engage in business negotiations with local firms.
- Domestic Program 2 (Late January to Early March): The second online phase will help refine presentations for upcoming negotiations and outline strategies for the second visit to Singapore, with guidance from mentors.
- Second Singapore Dispatch (March 1-5, 2027): This part of the program is designed for more in-depth networking with local venture capitalists and follow-up discussions with local businesses.
- Follow-up (Mid to Late March): Post-program, startups will receive mentorship to organize their activities and consolidate plans, concluding with a program report meeting.

Additionally, selected startups may receive travel expense support—up to 600,000 JPY—covering the first dispatch at 350,000 JPY and the second dispatch at 250,000 JPY.

Application Details

Application Period: Accessible from September 1 to September 15, 2026, until 5 PM.

• - Number of Selected Startups: A maximum of 10 companies will be chosen, with two representatives permitted per company.
• - For precise information, interested companies are encouraged to refer to the detailed application guidelines provided on the official website.

The selection process is expected to occur between mid-September and early October 2026, involving document assessments and online interviews.

This initiative aligns directly with the 2050 Tokyo Strategy, specifically focusing on nurturing startups capable of thriving on the international stage. As Tokyo continues to strive for innovation and global integration, this program stands as a testament to its commitment to building a robust startup ecosystem that reaches beyond borders.