Report
US<>Japan VC Playbook: Bridging U.S. and Japanese Startup Ecosystems

JETRO Startup is proud to present the US<>Japan VC Playbook, a strategic guide designed to enhance cross-border collaboration between U.S. investors, Japanese startups, investors and corporates. This initiative is part of JETRO’s VC education program, aimed at empowering Japanese venture capitalists to gain global perspectives on investment theory and startup growth support. In collaboration with the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, the program leverages the expertise and networks of 500 Global, a leading multi-stage venture capital firm.

As a public platform, JETRO Startup builds founder-led ecosystems by connecting startups with world-class mentors, investors, and corporates, while creating direct pathways between Japan and the global investment community. Through this mission, we have worked alongside over 2,000 startups and collaborated on 50+ accelerator programs, including investment-backed initiatives with Techstars and Alchemist. As the market evolves, we continue to experiment, adapt, and learn — turning each challenge we face into the next opportunity for the ecosystem.

US<>Japan VC Playbook(1.2MB)

Cross-Border Collaboration: How U.S. investors, Japanese investors, and startups can effectively collaborate by understanding each ecosystem’s unique strengths and market nuances.

"As capital becomes increasingly global and private markets continue to expand, investors must develop a deeper understanding of diverse markets, business cultures, and investment ecosystems. The U.S.–Japan VC Playbook—created by Japanese venture capitalists through our immersive VC Unlocked Intensive: Silicon Valley program—provides U.S. investors with a practical guide to navigating Japan’s venture capital landscape and fostering meaningful collaboration with local VCs and founders. Strengthening these connections is essential to expanding and deepening cross-border investment between Japan and the United States. " - Amjad Ahmad, Managing Partner, MENA &Emerging Markets Advisor, 500 Global.

For further insights into Japan’s startup ecosystem and venture capital landscape, we invite you to explore our other related reports, including:
Industries | Investing in Japan - Japan External Trade Organization - JETRO : A resource that provides a comprehensive overview of Japan’s industries and market opportunities, helping investors understand the potential across various sectors in the Japanese market.
Overview of Japanese Startup Investment for US Venture Capitalists | Reports - JETROGlobal Connection - Japan External Trade Organization - JETRO：: A report aimed at enhancing the understanding of Japanese startup legal practices among U.S. investors, summarizing the differences and similarities with U.S. startup legal practices.

For more information about JETRO’s VC programs, reach out to us at IVD@jetro.go.jp