Japan Regional Innovation Ecosystem Seminar

Since 2023, JETRO has been organizing online seminars on an irregular basis for stakeholders invigorating regional innovation ecosystems*.

These seminars aim to share practical insights and know-how on attracting foreign and foreign-affiliated companies to Japan, fostering international collaboration, as well as supporting the development of regional ecosystems.

This webinar provided an overview of the Subsidy for Projects to Stimulate Direct Investment in Japan currently open for applications in FY2026.
Following the explanation of the subsidy program, JETRO introduced last year’s activities and the FY2026 initiatives of the Program to Attract Foreign Companies to Regional Ecosystems, which is implemented as part of Japan’s inward foreign direct investment promotion efforts.
* Regarding the public call for applications for the Subsidy for Projects to Stimulate Direct Investment in Japan

Mr. Mototsugu Ikari, General Manager, International Alliance Department, Floating Offshore Wind Technology Research Association (FLOWRA), delivered a keynote presentation on the latest global trends in the formation of offshore wind power supply chains.
This was followed by presentations from four local governments—Muroran City (Hokkaido), Kitakyushu City (Fukuoka Prefecture), Chiba Prefecture, and Akita City—introducing their respective initiatives to develop offshore wind power–related ecosystems in their regions.
In the latter half of the seminar, a panel discussion was held based on a case study from Akita Prefecture, where local governments and private companies have built collaborative relationships with Dutch companies. The discussion brought together key stakeholders involved in the initiative.

The seminar featured a presentation by Dr. Jun Sato, Physician at the Department of Advanced Medical Care, National Cancer Center Hospital, who introduced findings on the issue of “drug loss,” referring to medicines that are available overseas but not accessible in Japan. He also discussed initiatives aimed at addressing this challenge, with a focus on promoting collaboration with overseas startup companies.
In addition, a representative from JETRO’s London Office provided an overview of the current biotechnology ecosystem in the United Kingdom and shared insights into expectations for the Japanese market, drawing on experience in supporting overseas startups expanding into Japan.

Dr. Sato’s presentation was available exclusively during the live seminar broadcast.