#Japan #Tokyo #Deep Tech #Extreme Tech Challenge #XTC JAPAN

Welcome to Extreme Tech Challenge Japan 2026!

The Extreme Tech Challenge (XTC) is recognized as one of the world's largest startup competitions aimed at addressing global challenges through technology and innovation. This year, the XTC Japan Organizing Committee, co-managed by Gaiax and IT-Farm, has announced that pitch entry applications are now open for the seventh annual XTC Japan in 2026. The event will be held in conjunction with JID 2026 by ASCII STARTUP on March 3, 2026, at the Tokyo Metropolitan Industrial Trade Center in Hamamatsucho.

About XTC

XTC has gained immense popularity over the years, attracting thousands of startups from 120 countries and involving over 70 venture capitalists and companies worldwide. Since its inception in Japan in 2020, XTC Japan has expanded significantly, providing many local deep-tech and technology startups with opportunities for international expansion and fundraising success.

In the previous edition, XTC Japan 2025, prominent figures such as Masataka Osaki, Vice President of Nvidia Japan, and Hirotaka Yoshikawa from Carbide Ventures emphasized the event's potential by discussing the fusion of Japanese culture with deep tech. The winner, Saliva Tech, not only claimed the title but also earned an invitation to the XTC Global Finals in San Francisco in the fall of 2026.

Benefits of Participating in XTC Japan 2026

Participating in XTC Japan 2026 offers numerous advantages for startups:

• - Pitch mentoring programs to develop globally competitive presentations.
• - Individual business negotiation opportunities at the JID 2026 exhibition booth.
• - Support for discussions with potential investors from the pitch audience.
• - Free invitations to the exclusive networking party in the evening.
• - Access to a global ecosystem comprising top investors and companies specializing in technology and deep tech. This includes world-class networking opportunities, mentoring, and potential collaboration with global corporations.

The top ten finalists selected through the application process will be invited to showcase at the JID 2026 exhibition.

How to Apply

Interested startups should refer to the application link here. The application deadline is January 14, 2026. To enter, applicants should prepare a pitch deck and a presentation video within three minutes, available in Japanese or English.

Startups at any stage of development, ranging from early-stage to late-stage, are welcomed to apply, provided they demonstrate a viable product or service with the potential for external funding.

Selection Process

The finalists will be determined through a document screening process, followed by another evaluation to choose the ultimate winner on the event day. This provides a critical opportunity for startups to gain visibility and engage with potential investors.

Event Details

• - Date: March 3, 2026
• - Location: Tokyo Metropolitan Industrial Trade Center, Hamamatsucho, Tokyo

With no entry fees for observers and limited access to the networking party available for a fee, the XTC Japan event anticipates significant participation from entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders. This year's program will feature global VC discussions, pitch stages for finalists, and business negotiation spaces with audiences.

Final Thoughts from Organizers

Shinya Kasuga, General Partner at IT-Farm and organizer of XTC Japan, reinforces the importance of technology transcending borders. He encourages startups tackling pressing global issues through deep tech and advanced technology to aimed at international markets and gain global competitiveness. XTC Japan 2026 is set to foster mentorship and networking opportunities to support the ambitious endeavors of Japanese startups in the global marketplace.

We invite all startups to participate in this vital opportunity and help shape the future of technology and business on a global scale!