Japan is full of bustling metropolises and a global centre for business and a history of innovation. There is now a growing startup ecosystem, with a wide range of resources and support available to help new businesses get off the ground.
Japanese Government Support for Startups
One of the key ways that startups in Tokyo can access support and resources is through government programs and initiatives. The Japanese government has been actively promoting the growth of the startup ecosystem in recent years, and as a result, there are a number of programs and initiatives available to help entrepreneurs with funding, mentorship, and networking opportunities.
There are several local government programs in Japan that provide support and resources to startups. Some of the most notable include:
J-Startup: This is one of the most well-known government programs for startups in Japan run by the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry that provides funding, mentorship, and networking opportunities to entrepreneurs in various stages of the startup process.
Monozukuri: or "making things" program is run by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology that provides funding and resources to startups working on cutting-edge technologies and products.
The Small and Medium Enterprise Agency (SMEA): A government-funded organisation that provides various support to small and medium-sized enterprises, including startup companies.
The Regional Innovation Strategies (RIS): A program run by the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry that provides funding, mentorship, and networking opportunities to startups in regional areas of Japan.
The Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO): A government-related organisation that provides various support to Japanese companies looking to expand overseas, including startup companies.
The Japan Innovation Network (JIN): A program run by JETRO that helps startups connect with potential investors and partners.
Startup Incubators in Tokyo
In addition to government programs, there are also a number of private organisations and incubators in Tokyo that provide support and resources to startups. They provide access to funding, mentorship, and networking opportunities, as well as office space and other resources to help them grow and scale their businesses. Some of the most well-known incubators in Tokyo include:
The Tokyo Innovation Center: is an organisation aimed at promoting innovation and entrepreneurship in Tokyo, Japan. It provides a range of resources and support services for startups and entrepreneurs, including workspace, mentorship, and networking opportunities.
The Tokyo Accelerator: is a program designed to support the growth and development of startups in Tokyo. It provides resources such as mentorship, training, and access to funding to help startups grow and scale their businesses.
Tokyo Business Incubation Center: is a facility that provides workspace, resources, and support services to startups and entrepreneurs in Tokyo. It aims to foster innovation and entrepreneurship by providing a supportive environment for startups to launch and grow their businesses.
Private Funding Support for Startups in Tokyo
In Tokyo, there are also a number of venture capital firms that specialise in investing in startups needing to grow and scale their businesses. These include:
CyberAgent Ventures: is a venture capital firm that invests in early-stage startups in the technology sector. It provides funding, mentorship, and support services to help startups grow and succeed.
Global Brain: is a venture capital firm that invests in startups and early-stage companies in Japan and Southeast Asia. It provides funding and support services to help startups grow and scale their businesses.
Incubate Fund: is a venture capital firm that invests in early-stage startups in Japan. It provides funding, mentorship, and support services to help startups grow and succeed. The firm focuses on startups in the technology and internet sectors.
Co-working spaces for Startups in Tokyo and Kansai
Tokyo and Kansai are also home to a number of co-working spaces that provide startups with affordable office space, resources, and like minded communities.
Startup Support in Shibuya ward
Shibuya is a vibrant and bustling district in Tokyo, known for its trendy fashion, cutting-edge technology, and vibrant startup scene. There are a number of resources and support available to help startups get off the ground in Shibuya, some of which include:
Shibuya Startup Support : is an initiative aimed at supporting startups in the Shibuya area of Japan. It provides a range of resources and support services, including information about the application process for the startup visa program, to help entrepreneurs and startups grow and succeed in the area.
Shibuya City Startup Support Program: This program is run by the Shibuya City government, and provides funding, mentorship, and networking opportunities to startups in the area.
Shibuya Startup Hub: A coworking space and startup accelerator located in Shibuya, which provides startups with office space, resources, and networking opportunities.
Shibuya Venture Capital: A venture capital firm located in Shibuya that specialises in investing in startups in the area.
Shibuya Global Innovation Center: A startup accelerator and innovation centre located in Shibuya, which provides startups with resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities.
Shibuya Creators Festa: an annual event which gather startup, entrepreneur and creators of various field in Shibuya.
Startup Support Outside of Tokyo
Other notable support for Startups outside of Tokyo:
Kobe Startup is a support and resources organisation for entrepreneurs and startups. It provides information and assistance with the startup visa program and other initiatives aimed at helping startups establish and grow their businesses in Kobe.
Fukuoka Startup Visa Support is a government-supported organisation based in the city of Fukuoka, Japan. It provides support for startups looking to establish their businesses in the city, including information about the startup visa program and other resources.
Whether you're looking for funding, mentorship, networking opportunities, or office space, there are plenty of options available to help you get your startup off the ground and on the road to success. Good luck! And if you have any experience or can suggest other support services please leave a comment.
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