The Japan External Trade Organization is playing a pivotal role in the international expansion of Japanese startups. By offering a robust suite of services — including mentoring, warm introductions to global stakeholders, acceleration programs and business development guidance — JETRO has established itself as a cornerstone of Japan’s innovation ecosystem.
JETRO assists approximately 700 startups each year, providing them with the tools and connections needed to thrive in global markets. To date, over 2,000 companies have benefited from its programs, with more than 200 startups achieving remarkable milestones such as securing funding from international investors, forming partnerships with international corporations, increasing their annual recurring revenue (ARR) abroad or completing successful exits. JETRO has forged partnerships with over 50 leading global accelerators and venture capital firms, including Berkeley SkyDeck, StartX, Techstars, 500 Global and Alchemist. Through these collaborations, Japanese startups gain access to high-quality acceleration programs, classes, mentoring, introductions to investors and customers, and opportunities to showcase their innovations.
These partnerships not only prepare startups to compete globally but also open doors to essential resources, networks and expertise. By facilitating such connections, JETRO helps Japanese entrepreneurs bridge the gap between their innovative ideas and the international markets that can help them thrive.
JETRO’s mentoring programs are a key differentiator, offering guidance from serial entrepreneurs and industry experts. Startups utilize these programs to validate their product-market fit, acquire new users and position themselves as attractive investment opportunities for global venture capital (VC) and corporate venture capital (CVC) firms.
In addition, JETRO offers the unique Startup Scouting service, connecting over 200 international investors with Japanese startups that meet their specific criteria for stage, valuation, market, industry and technology focus. These meetings foster meaningful partnerships, driving both innovation and investment.
JETRO also spearheads efforts to showcase Japanese startups at renowned global conferences such as CES, TechCrunch Disrupt and Viva Technology. Programs like J-Startup, which highlights Japan’s top 240 startups, provide international investors and corporate representatives with opportunities to connect directly with some of Japan’s most promising startups.
For those interested in exploring Japan’s innovation scene, these conferences serve as prime platforms to engage with cutting-edge technology and ambitious entrepreneurs.
JETRO’s influence extends beyond supporting startups — it also facilitates the entry of international accelerators, VCs and CVCs into Japan. Organizations such as Techstars, Alchemist, Vertex and Eurazeo have established a presence in Japan, often with JETRO’s backing. These collaborations are contributing to a growing global interest in Japanese startups, making Japan an increasingly attractive destination for innovation and investment.
JETRO also introduces global investors to Japanese ecosystem players, fostering co-investment opportunities and supporting the establishment of programs that further embed international players into Japan’s ecosystem.
JETRO’s efforts are redefining the trajectory of Japanese startups, enabling them to thrive on a global stage while attracting international attention to Japan’s burgeoning ecosystem. By bridging cultural, geographic and industrial divides, JETRO is driving the next wave of Japanese innovation and solidifying the country’s role as a global leader in entrepreneurship and technology.
As Japan’s startup ecosystem continues to grow in sophistication, JETRO’s role as a catalyst for international collaboration and investment will remain essential. With its comprehensive programs and strategic partnerships, JETRO is empowering a new generation of Japanese entrepreneurs to leave an indelible mark on the world.
