Plug and Play Japan Launches European Climate Tech Mission Program with JETRO

Plug and Play Japan Launches Climate Tech European Mission Program

Plug and Play Japan, headquartered in Shibuya, Tokyo, and led by CEO Vincent Philip, has secured a contract to execute the "Climate Tech European Mission Program" as part of JETRO's initiative from the Yokohama Trade Information Center. This program aims to support startups focused on combating climate change by fostering international collaboration and advancing localized businesses.

Background of the Program

Last year, the company managed the "Deep Tech Germany Mission," addressing various societal and global challenges through innovative technologies. This year’s initiative will concentrate on "Climate Tech," aligning with the focus of Yokohama, Kawasaki, and Kanagawa's municipal governments, aiming to facilitate the expansion of local startups into Europe, particularly Germany, which is at the forefront of energy policy and climate technology.

Program Overview

This program provides a seamless support framework for startups addressing climate change, extending from preliminary learning, travel to Europe, and post-return individualized support. The initiative is defined by four key components aimed at establishing a foothold for participating companies in the European market:

1. Market Understanding and Skill Enhancement: Attendees will gain insights into the German market characteristics and regulations while cultivating the necessary mindset for global expansion. They will also improve their pitch skills for potential investors.

2. Multilayered Networking Opportunities: The program will create avenues for English pitches and business meetings with influential firms and venture capitalists in Germany, helping to establish strong relationships with potential future partners.

3. Inviting European Stakeholders to Japan: Key figures developed through relationships built in Germany will be invited to Japan, facilitating their introduction to local demonstration settings, thus helping to support the transition from relationships to tangible business operations.

4. Refining Go-to-Market Strategies: The program will help participants understand how their solutions are perceived in the German market, providing critical insights into the development strategies needed to actualize their business in foreign markets.

Support Mechanics from Plug and Play

As a global innovation platform, Plug and Play's strength and network will deliver consistent support through the following steps:

- Climate Tech Skill-up Seminar: Two domestic training sessions led by experts familiar with the German market and experienced entrepreneurs sharing their know-how for entering the market.

- Climate Tech German Mission:

- Pre-Travel Support: Includes pitch coaching, individual mentoring, and pre-travel orientations.
- On-the-Ground Mission in Germany: Up to four companies will visit Hamburg and Berlin to meet local companies and startups, engage in business discussions, and attend the "Hydrogen Technology World Expo."
- Post-Return Follow-Up: Includes a presentation on outcomes and one-on-one follow-up meetings.

- Bringing European Stakeholders to Japan: To be held from February to March 2027, providing the opportunity for future investments and business negotiation acquisitions.

Call for Participants

The program seeks to recruit climate tech startups or pre-entrepreneurs located or planning to establish a base in Kanagawa, Yokohama, or Kawasaki. Companies must be pre-funding (excluding angel investments and lacking VC investment) and must intend to expand into Europe or Germany within three years. Proficiency in English for communication and pitch material preparation is essential.

- Number of Participants for German Mission: Up to four companies
- Deadline for Applications: September 6, 2026, 23:59

After the submission of documents, candidates will be assessed for selection. Note that participation in at least one of the "Climate Tech Skill-Up Seminars" is a prerequisite for involvement in the Climate Tech German Mission.

For detailed application requirements, methods, and schedules, please refer to the following link: Climate Tech Euro Mission

About Plug and Play Japan

Plug and Play is one of the world's largest innovation platforms connecting startups, large corporations, investors, academia, and public organizations. Based in Silicon Valley, it operates in over 60 locations worldwide, including Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. The organization provides extensive support across all stages of startup engagement, from exploring startups to trend analysis, innovation strategies, and business commercialization. Utilizing accelerator programs and venture capital functions, it promotes innovations across various sectors and invests in more than 250 startups globally each year.