Explore Japan’s deep tech ecosystem and market opportunities through a curated market access program by Carve Startup Labs. 

Calling Deep Tech Startups!

Japan is one of the world’s leading innovation economies, known for its strengths in deep technology, advanced manufacturing, research, and industrial innovation. For startups building cutting-edge technologies, it offers opportunities to collaborate with global industry leaders, research institutions, investors, and innovation partners.

To help startups explore these opportunities, Carve Startup Labs invites applications for its Startup Market Access Mission to Japan, centered around Global Startup EXPO 2026 (GSE2026). Designed for startups with global ambitions, the program supports founders looking to explore expansion and long-term growth opportunities in Japan through curated ecosystem engagements, strategic connections, and participation in one of the country’s flagship deep tech events.

At the heart of the program is Global Startup EXPO 2026 (GSE2026)—a global deep tech event connecting startups and ecosystems for real-world deployment. Hosted in Osaka, Japan, the Expo builds on the momentum of Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, bringing together startups, investors, corporates, researchers, government agencies, and ecosystem leaders shaping the future of innovation.

Organized by the Global Startup EXPO 2026 Executive Committee and co-organized by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO), and other leading public sector partners, the Expo reflects Japan’s national commitment to advancing deep tech innovation and strengthening global startup collaboration.

❗️ Dates: October 5–7, 2026

📍 Location: Osaka, Japan

Focus Sectors

Global Startup EXPO 2026 focuses on Japan’s National Strategic Technology Areas, including:

• Biotechnology & Healthcare
• Quantum
• Fusion Energy
• Space
• AI & Advanced Robotics
• Semiconductors & Telecommunications

What You’ll Gain

✅ Participation at Global Startup EXPO 2026

Access one of Japan’s flagship deep tech events, bringing together startups, investors, corporates, researchers, government agencies, and ecosystem leaders driving the future of innovation.

✅ Japan Ecosystem Immersion

Gain first-hand insights into Japan’s innovation ecosystem through curated engagements with key organizations driving innovation, investment, and international collaboration.

✅ Exclusive Stakeholder Meetings

Engage in curated meetings with relevant Government & Economic Development Agencies, Corporate Innovation & Open Innovation Partners, Startup & Innovation Hubs, investors, and ecosystem organizations aligned with your sector and expansion objectives.

✅ Conference Sessions & Networking Access

Hear from global deep tech pioneers while connecting with founders, investors, corporates, researchers, government representatives, and ecosystem leaders from around the world.

✅ Dedicated Market Access Support by Carve Startup Labs

Receive end-to-end support through pre-program briefing, curated introductions, on-ground delegation support, and post-program follow-up to help advance your Japan market access journey.

Why Carve Startup Labs?

Carve Startup Labs works across 35+ countries, helping startups explore international markets through structured market access programs, ecosystem partnerships, and global delegations.

Japan is one of CSL’s long-standing focus markets, with established partnerships across government, innovation, and startup ecosystems.

Further strengthening this engagement, CSL Co-founder & CEO, Mr. Vishnu Nagaraj, serves as the South Asia & Middle East Ambassador for the Deep Tech Tokyo Launchpad, a flagship initiative of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government (TMG).

❗️Selection Process

Please note: This program is limited to a select, curated cohort to ensure meaningful engagements.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis by Carve Startup Labs and its partners, based on your startup’s technology, expansion objectives, and alignment with the program. Shortlisted startups will be contacted with the next steps.

🌏 Explore Japan. Build strategic partnerships. Accelerate your global growth. 🚀