#Japan #Tokyo #Startup World Cup #Pegasus Tech #ZIPAIR Tokyo

New Strategic Alliance Between ZIPAIR Tokyo and Pegasus Tech Ventures

In a significant move that highlights its commitment to innovation, ZIPAIR Tokyo, Japan's first medium and long-haul low-cost carrier and part of the JAL Group, has entered into a partnership with Pegasus Tech Ventures. This collaboration is aimed at fostering the startup ecosystem, as both companies aspire to support entrepreneurs and their innovative ideas.

As part of this alliance, ZIPAIR will serve as a platinum sponsor of the prestigious Startup World Cup, one of the largest startup pitch competitions globally. Notably, this partnership heralds the introduction of the ZIPAIR Tokyo Award, which will recognize outstanding contributions from participating startups during the competition.

The Startup World Cup

The Startup World Cup is renowned for hosting qualifying rounds in over 100 countries, showcasing the most innovative startups. In Japan, this year's qualifying rounds will be held in three key locations: Kyushu, Tokyo, and Tohoku. Each of these regions will see numerous startups competing for the chance to advance to the global finals in San Francisco in October. All entrants in the Japanese preliminaries will have the opportunity to vie for the ZIPAIR Tokyo Award, which includes a round-trip airfare for the winner from Tokyo to San Francisco for the finals.

The ZIPAIR Tokyo Award adds a unique dimension to the competition, making it an attractive opportunity for startups aiming to challenge themselves on a global scale. With the expectation that this initiative will provide robust support not only for funding but also for business expansion, both ZIPAIR and Pegasus Tech Ventures are eagerly anticipating the outcomes of this partnership.

Comments from ZIPAIR Tokyo

In a recent statement, a spokesperson from ZIPAIR Tokyo expressed excitement about the collaboration, stating, "ZIPAIR, launched in 2018, operates with the spirit of a startup. We deeply resonate with the efforts of entrepreneurs striving to create new value. This partnership stems from our desire to support their dream realization. We look forward to meeting many passionate entrepreneurs during the Japanese preliminaries."

Insights from Pegasus Tech Ventures

Furthermore, a representative from Pegasus Tech Ventures shared their enthusiasm for the partnership, noting, "We are thrilled to collaborate with an innovative company like ZIPAIR. From our initial discussions, it was clear that our shared passion for empowering Japanese youth and advancing their global outreach is strong. We are committed to evolving the competition with ZIPAIR, providing more startups with the opportunity to spread their wings internationally."

The ZIPAIR Tokyo Award will undoubtedly bring excitement to the competition, and attendees are encouraged to witness firsthand which startup will take home this prestigious accolade.

Competition Schedule

• - Kyushu Preliminary

Date: May 23, 2025
Venue: Kumamoto Castle Hall
Official Website
Application Deadline: Closed

• - Tokyo Preliminary

Date: July 18, 2025
Venue: Grand Hyatt Tokyo
Official Website
Application Deadline: June 14, 2025

• - Tohoku Preliminary

Date: August 22, 2025
Venue: Tohoku University
Official Website
Application Deadline: June 27, 2025

About Pegasus Tech Ventures

Pegasus Tech Ventures, based in Silicon Valley, is a leading venture capital firm that has invested in over 270 startups primarily across the United States, Japan, and Southeast Asia. Their extensive network, which includes investments from over 40 major corporations, underscores their commitment to fostering innovation and supporting startups in achieving international market expansion.

About ZIPAIR Tokyo

ZIPAIR Tokyo is an innovative low-cost carrier owned entirely by Japan Airlines. It operates various international routes, including popular destinations like Seoul, Bangkok, and San Francisco. Not just another airline, ZIPAIR seeks to redefine the travel experience, emphasizing customer satisfaction while delivering affordable pricing by leveraging operational efficiencies.