Overcoming the Shortage of Management Talent in University-Backed Deep Tech Startups

In recent years, deep tech startups emerging from universities have been gaining traction in Japan, with the number rising to a record-high of 6,220. However, this growth also highlights a significant issue: a shortage of skilled management professionals to drive these ventures towards commercial success. Startup Class, a company known for its support in the establishment and management of university-originated deep tech initiatives, recently addressed this challenge during a session at the "TeSH × ACADEMIA STARTUP NIGHT" held on July 30, 2026, in Tokyo.

Understanding the Current Landscape

During the session, participants discussed the current state of university-backed ventures. Despite the increased number of startups, many are struggling to secure funding and realize their business potential due to the absence of experienced management. This shortage is viewed as the primary obstacle to growth in the sector. The discussion underscored the need for a strong focus on securing individuals who possess a management mindset capable of guiding these innovative companies forward.

The Importance of Vision Matching

A key point raised was the concept of "vision matching," which is particularly crucial in deep tech areas that require 5 to 10 years to develop before they can be implemented in society. Attendees emphasized that simply offering competitive compensation isn’t sufficient; instead, it is essential for researchers and entrepreneurs to resonate with potential management candidates by sharing a compelling vision for addressing societal challenges. This alignment can significantly attract skilled managers who are inspired by the researchers' missions.

Real-World Examples of Accelerating Business

The session also featured impactful case studies where researchers clearly articulated their needs and challenges. By doing so, they facilitated the engagement of management talent from diverse fields. For instance, a professor from Kanazawa Medical University presented a patented technology that activates sperm through specific wavelengths of light. This led to significant advancements in business development through collaboration with experienced management professionals from a leading foreign infertility treatment equipment firm.

Moreover, a Kanazawa Institute of Technology professor introduced a drone designed for assisting isolated areas during disasters. With new management candidates onboard, the project progressed to implementation and trials much faster than anticipated.

Factors Contributing to Success

Key traits common among researchers who successfully attracted management talent included their ability to communicate their social vision using their own words and to openly discuss their areas of incompleteness and needs for support. This transparency fosters trust and encourages potential collaborators to get involved in the journey toward innovation.

Looking Ahead: Upcoming Events

As part of ongoing efforts to bridge the management talent gap, Startup Class is organizing a matching event between researchers and management professionals on October 26, 2026, in Tokyo. This face-to-face meeting aims to foster genuine connections that often lead to collaborations beyond what resumes and texts can convey. The overarching mission remains to illuminate the next century by launching 100 successful ventures.

Watch for this exciting intersection where research ideas and management expertise meet, paving the way for future advancements in deep tech.

- Kanazawa Institute of Technology's logistics drone and Toyama University's itch treatment are set for commercialization.
- Startup Class has been selected for NEDO’s management talent support program for university startups.

About Startup Class

Startup Class is guided by the vision of building 100 successful ventures to illuminate the future. With a commitment to nurturing entrepreneurship through targeted recruiting services, it has supported over 1,700 startups, helping around 170 achieve Initial Public Offerings (IPOs). Their dedication to the entrepreneurial spirit ensures they remain an invaluable ally in realizing ambitious visions.