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Plug and Play Japan Accelerates Local Expansion in Kansai Region

Plug and Play Japan, a subsidiary of the global innovation support and startup investment firm, is ramping up its initiatives to bolster local collaboration in the Kansai region, particularly in Kyoto, Osaka, and Hyogo. Under the leadership of CEO Vincent Philippe and based in Shibuya, Tokyo, the company aims to connect local governments, businesses, and universities to foster sustainable solutions addressing regional challenges and revitalizing local economies.

Background: Rising Need for Local Collaboration Among Governments and Businesses

In recent years, there has been a surge in efforts by local governments to nurture startups and invest in advanced industries. Responding to this trend, Plug and Play Japan has launched numerous projects across various administrative, academic, and financial institutions, collaborating with local businesses to create innovation.

In particular, the Kansai region has been designated as a hub for startup ecosystems by the Cabinet Office, which includes cities such as Osaka and Kyoto, as well as Kobe and Sakai. As global advancements in life sciences, green technology, and digital industries continue to accelerate, stakeholders in the region are motivated to strengthen international connections in anticipation of the Osaka-Kansai Expo 2025. There is great potential for leveraging the research capabilities of local universities and the technical strengths of mid-sized corporations to support startup growth in the deep tech sector.

Plug and Play Japan has successfully executed various projects that engage local governments and businesses, facilitating the international expansion of regional startups. By leveraging its network that encompasses over 60 countries and regions globally, the company aims to continue its support for technological innovation and startup growth in the Kansai area.

Future Outlook: Creating Innovation from the Local Level

With its corporate mission of building a globally leading innovation platform that democratizes access to innovation for all people everywhere, Plug and Play Japan seeks to enhance its contributions to local startup ecosystems. Utilizing the knowledge and global networks gained through its operations in Tokyo and Kansai, the company plans to cultivate programs that directly connect regional issues with the innovative capabilities of startups. This approach signifies the first step toward decoupling economic concentration in Tokyo and promoting decentralized growth for startups, allowing local entrepreneurs to shine and empowering them to reach global markets.

Comments from the Osaka-Kyoto-Hyogo Consortium

The establishment of the new Kobe location as an extension of Plug and Play Japan's Osaka-Kyoto base is expected to significantly contribute to the advancement of the startup ecosystem in the Kansai region. We look forward to seeing innovative collaborations and global partnerships fueled by the potential of each city.

Key Initiatives and Projects

• - Kansai Inspiration Day: A startup event in partnership with Kyoto Prefecture, scheduled for February 28, 2024, will gather over 30 startups for business pitches, exhibits, and networking.
• - Startup Horizon 2024: Sponsored by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry and JETRO, this event aims to enhance Japan's startup competitiveness ahead of the Global Startup EXPO 2025, taking place in conjunction with the Osaka-Kansai Expo 2025.
• - SDGs Challenge 2025: This initiative, organized by Hyogo Prefecture and Kobe City, supports startups tackling social challenges and facilitates access to cutting-edge information for local companies striving for carbon neutrality.
• - Kyoto Startup Project: Plug and Play Japan has been entrusted with planning and managing overseas expansion support for Kyoto-based startups, offering them opportunities to showcase their innovations at international tech conferences and facilitating business matching abroad.
• - Small Business Support Project: The company has been selected as a partner for the Ministry of Economy's small business support project, facilitating new business development for mid-sized enterprises in the Kinki region.
• - International Financial City OSAKA Promotion: Working with the Osaka Prefecture and Osaka City to attract foreign financial companies, this initiative aims to promote the region's strengths in healthcare and deep technology through the impending expo.

The Three Kansai Locations

• - Kyoto Location: Established in 2019, this base focuses on deep tech innovations in healthcare and advanced materials. As interest in Japan's deep tech sits at an all-time high, Plug and Play Japan continues to enhance the regional innovation ecosystem.
• - Osaka Location: Established in 2020, this site centers on Smart Cities, further contributing to the development of the Kansai startup ecosystem in light of increasing international attention.
• - Hyogo Location (New): Slated to open in 2025, this base will build on previous collaborations in Kyoto and Osaka to promote advanced healthcare and life sciences initiatives in Hyogo, working with local businesses to foster new innovations.

About Plug and Play Japan

Plug and Play Japan is the Japanese branch of a world-leading accelerator and venture capital firm. Originating from Silicon Valley, it partners with over 40 organizations across various sectors to facilitate innovation for large corporations, implement cross-industry accelerator programs, and support startups in their international growth.

For more information, visit their official website: Plug and Play Japan