#Japan #Niigata #Oisix #SOSV

New Partnership to Globalize Niigata's Food Tech Startups

Oisix, a company known for its food subscription services based in Shinagawa, Tokyo, and the NSG Group, which operates educational and healthcare services centered in Niigata, have launched an ambitious initiative called the Niigata Food Tech Town (NFTT). This new project aims to stimulate the local food tech ecosystem and position Niigata as a significant player in the global food tech arena. In a groundbreaking move, they have partnered with SOSV Investments LLC, a prominent venture capital firm based in New Jersey, USA. The collaboration was formalized with a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on April 1, 2026.

This partnership is designed to create opportunities for food tech startups from Niigata to expand their operations globally. At the same time, SOSV is looking to facilitate international startups seeking to enter the Japanese market, fostering mutual support and interaction. The objective is to rapidly develop a world-class food tech ecosystem to not only spearhead localities in Japan but also influence the global food landscape significantly.

The Role of SOSV in this New Initiative

SOSV stands out as one of the largest deep tech venture capital firms globally, boasting a robust network that connects startups to critical resources such as testing, marketing, and business matching in the U.S. market. Their involvement as a global partner stems from their anticipation of supporting companies in their early stages, which is crucial for startups targeting international markets.

Furthermore, for SOSV, the collaboration with NFTT presents an attractive opportunity to support their portfolio companies looking to branch into Japan. The existing cooperative structure between public, private, academic, and funding sectors around NFTT resonates well with SOSV's vision, especially with the strong emphasis on fermentation technology and supporting research institutions in Niigata.

Collaborative Efforts under the Partnership

The cooperation will encapsulate various initiatives:

• - Support for Starup Companies Related to NFTT: Utilizing SOSV's extensive network and the accelerator program “SOSV NY,” startups will receive practical support in marketing and networking, enhancing their growth and expansion possibilities.
• - Assistance for Foreign Startups to Enter Japan: SOSV will facilitate partnerships, marketing efforts, and networking for foreign startups entering Japan, alongside connecting them with Niigata-based startups relevant to the NFTT vision.

Insights from Deborah Zajac, General Partner at SOSV

According to Deborah Zajac, the world’s food systems are undergoing a fundamental transformation due to significant challenges such as climate change, nutritional issues, and the need for resilient ecosystems. Innovations in precision fermentation and next-generation proteins are creating a new food economy that meets consumer demands while addressing climate change and costs. Zajac emphasizes that Japan’s global reputation for food excellence, safety, and quality positions it competitively in this new landscape, making the region's collaborative commitment to nurturing talent crucial for leading the future of food production.

About Niigata Food Tech Town (NFTT)

NFTT is an initiative spearheaded by Oisix and the NSG Group, focusing on building a leading food tech ecosystem in Niigata. Leveraging traditional fermentation techniques, rich food resources, and an accumulated network of food companies and research institutions, NFTT aims to link Japanese culinary tradition with global competitiveness. The project aspires to create 500 startups and achieve a cumulative revenue target of 500 billion yen, thus invigorating the food industry and addressing societal challenges, while advancing Japan’s food industry domestically and globally.

Profile of Oisix, la Daichi, Inc.

Oisix, la Daichi, Inc. provides carefully sourced agricultural products and meal kits through renowned brands like “Oisix,” “Radish Boya,” and “Daichi wo Mamoru Kai.” They also address social issues via diversified subsidiaries that operate food service programs in various settings. Their approach focuses on sustainability and reducing food waste through innovative supply chain solutions. This dedication to environmental responsibility aligns with their goal of achieving zero food loss throughout the entire supply chain, from farm to table.