#Japan #Deep Tech #Shibuya, Tokyo #Funds Startups #Beyond Next Ventures

Exploring Debt Financing for Deep Tech Startups: Gateway Session

In the ever-evolving world of deep tech startups, funding has become a crucial aspect of their growth journey. On September 3, 2026, Funds Startups Co., Ltd. and Beyond Next Ventures Co., Ltd. will spearhead a significant event at the TECHNIUM Global Conference 2026, focusing on the integration of debt financing within deep tech. This gathering is set to feature a session titled "Debt Financing Gateway vol.2," co-hosted by various notable financial institutions, including the Aozora Corporate Investment Corporation, Shizuoka Bank, Mitsubishi UFJ Bank, and Resona Bank.

The Context of Deep Tech Growth

The number of deep tech startups in Japan has surged recently, yet the path to commercialization demands substantial time and financial resources. As these startups are vital to many sectors prioritized by the government for investment, it has become imperative to establish a supportive financial environment. While Japanese financial institutions are gradually building expertise in deep tech, opportunities for cross-industry knowledge sharing remain limited, highlighting a significant challenge.

At the previous TECHNIUM Global Conference, the first Debt Financing Gateway event witnessed immense interest, with attendance exceeding venue capacity. This year, in response to the overwhelming feedback, the format has been expanded to include an evening networking session, facilitating direct communication between startups and financial institutions. This new structure aims to enhance support for startups across all stages, from seed to late-stage financing, underscoring the collaborative efforts of financial institutions involved.

Bridging Knowledge and Dialogue

The upcoming event will be divided into two parts: the session and the networking gathering. During the Debt Financing Gateway vol.2 session, discussions will transcend general concepts, focusing on practical insights related to debt financing challenges in deep tech. Participants will address the following key inquiries:

1. What specific challenges arise in utilizing debt for deep tech startups?
2. What changes are necessary for both financial institutions and startups to overcome these challenges?
3. What steps need to be taken for the general acceptance of debt financing in the deep tech sector?

This initiative aims to provide actionable insights rather than remaining in abstract discussions. Participants will share real-world examples and demands related to debt financing, enabling startups to return to their respective businesses with concrete strategies for their capital policy and debt utilization.

It’s essential to note that this discussion will not view equity and debt as mutually exclusive options. For venture capitalists (VCs), it will present an opportunity to explore how equity and debt can be effectively combined based on a startup's growth stage and funding needs. For startups, it offers guidance on when and how to engage with financial institutions regarding their funding requirements.

Facilitating Real Dialogue

The evening networking gathering is designed to allow financial institutions to hear directly from startups about their funding needs, ensuring a two-way dialogue instead of a one-sided flow of information. This encourages matching opportunities between the two entities.

Event Information

Session Title: Debt Financing Gateway vol.2 - Envisioning a Future Where Deep Tech Startups Regularly Utilize Debt

Date: September 3, 2026

• - Session Time: 12:25 PM - 1:25 PM
• - Networking Time: 4:50 PM - 5:40 PM

Location: Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel, B2F

Co-hosts: Aozora Corporate Investment, Shizuoka Bank, Mitsubishi UFJ Bank, Resona Bank, Beyond Next Ventures, Funds Startups

Organizers: Beyond Next Ventures, Funds Startups

Speakers: The session will feature notable industry leaders, including:

• - Tatsuhiro Hanano, Board Director, Aozora Corporate Investment
• - Yuki Onda, Group Leader, Venture Business Support Group, Shizuoka Bank
• - Kenji Nishichi, Head of Startup Strategy Department, Mitsubishi UFJ Bank
• - Yusuke Ogawa, Group Leader, Startup Strategy Group, Resona Bank
• - Kengo Uenami, Representative Director and General Partner, Beyond Next Ventures
• - Hiroshi Maekawa, Representative Director & Partner, Funds Startups

Funds Startups is committed to fostering a funding environment where debt and equity can be strategically combined to support the growth of startups. Their mission is to develop solutions that empower socially impactful startups to achieve their ideal growth.

About Funds Startups

Founded in December 2023 as a subsidiary of Funds Inc., Funds Startups aims to create frameworks that support startups in reaching their full potential. As General Partner of the Funds Venture Debt Fund, it focuses on fund management and providing essential support related to venture debt. Looking ahead, the company plans to continue expanding its role, similar to an investment banking division specialized in startups, to diversify funding avenues and improve the overall funding ecosystem.