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Tokyo's Initiative for University Startups

In November 2025, Tokyo will launch an upgraded version of its startup strategy titled "Global Innovation Strategy 2.0 STARTUP & SCALEUP". This ambitious plan aims to boldly support the scaling of outstanding startups, bringing together participation from universities, research institutions, and various players to promote technologies, cultures, and values that contribute to people's happiness. Leveraging Japan’s strengths, this initiative seeks to create global innovations that resonate worldwide.

One of the key initiatives in this strategy is the program aimed at fostering university-originated startups. Since the fiscal year 2023, Tokyo has implemented the "University Startup Creation Support Program", which has successfully established 29 new university startups. This approach capitalizes on Tokyo's strengths as a knowledge hub by providing support for the commercialization of research seeds and ideas.

From March 30 to June 1, 2026, this year’s recruitment will take place, and it has been announced that 13 universities will participate in this initiative.

Program Overview

The program is designed to offer tailored support over two years, utilizing coordinators with knowledge and know-how regarding startup creation. In collaboration with the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, the program provides two types of support based on the specific circumstances of participating universities:

1. Business Step-up Support (10 universities)

This support is aimed at universities looking to leverage research seeds and actively enhance their startup creation efforts, promoting collaboration with other universities to help scale up their initiatives.

2. Internal Structure Development Support (3 universities)

This aspect of the program involves building a supportive framework within the universities for startup creation based on research seeds. It includes clarifying visions and strategies, organizing structures, and networking with experts through coordinators.

About the Coordinators

Coordinators are selected entities that work alongside the Tokyo government to provide support to the universities involved in the initiative.

More details can be found on the official website: Startup and Global Financial City

Agreement Duration

The cooperation agreement will be effective from the date of signing until March 31, 2028.

Participating Universities

A list of the participating universities can be referred to in the attached document.

This initiative aligns with the "2050 Tokyo Strategy", specifically focusing on the strategy to create an ecosystem where startups are born and nurtured, thereby building a conducive environment for innovation.