Long revered as the spiritual and cultural center of Japan, Kansai is the birthplace of tradition, full of ancient temples, a vibrant history, and a rich artistic heritage. Iconic cities like Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe always attract travelers looking to experience historic buildings. However, Kansai is no longer just a place where tradition lives, but is transforming into a global hub of deep technology innovation.
This transformation from a cultural center to a technology powerhouse reached a key turning point in 2020, when the major cities of Kansai, Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe, were designated as innovation “consortiums” by the Japanese government. Each city has its own unique strengths, such as Osaka as a center for deep technology, Kyoto with its strong ties to prestigious universities, and Kobe as a testing ground for breakthrough innovations. .
The Kansai ecosystem thrives on close collaboration between universities, industry leaders, and government agencies, creating a fertile environment for university-based startups and corporate partnerships. With the support of local and international stakeholders, Kansai is rapidly rising to prominence on the global technology stage, nurturing a new generation of startups in fields ranging from clean energy and biotechnology to healthcare and robotics. It is becoming.
Coinciding with this development is the Kansai Startup Mashup, an initiative jointly launched in 2022 by the Osaka Innovation Hub, Chiebori, the cities of Kobe and Hyogo in collaboration with the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO). The program was designed to accelerate local startups by providing various support mechanisms and was subsequently expanded to help these companies expand globally. The ambition is clear. To nurture unicorns and build a best-in-class startup ecosystem for Expo 2025.
The progress of Kansai’s startup ecosystem is already reflected in the numbers. Venture capital investment in the region has surged over the past decade, particularly in the health tech sector, leading both in number of funding rounds and total investment amount, according to Deal Room data. Interest in clean energy and semiconductors is also growing, reflecting growing global demand for sustainable energy solutions and advanced technology components.
Despite a global economic slowdown and a “funding winter,” deep tech startups in the Kansai region continue to attract investment. Although funding fell in 2022, capital flows remained stable, especially for startups working on innovative technologies. Funding prospects for the region have skyrocketed in recent years, rising from a modest 3.5 million yen (US$24,500) in 2010 to a staggering 392 million yen (US$2.7 million) by 2021. , decreased slightly to 362 million yen (US$2.5 million) in 2021. 2022.
Furthermore, the average amount raised per round has also increased, from 1 million yen (US$ 7,000) in 2019 to 3.3 million yen (US$ 23,100) in 2024. This trend shows that startups in Kansai are gradually maturing, and investors are becoming more aware of long-term investments. Possibilities of the term.
The sophistication of Kansai’s deep tech scene is propelling Kansai Startup Mashup to take the lead globally, with its debut scheduled for Singapore Innovation & Technology Week (SWITCH) in 2024. This event represents a pivotal moment and opportunity for startups in Kansai. To collaborate with international investors, partners and institutions. JETRO and For Startups are collaborating with local stakeholders to host conferences that connect these startups with leading companies from various industries.
Venture company representing Kansai
The Kansai Startup Mashup will feature six standout startups at SWITCH 2024, each poised to make an impact on the world.
EX-Fusion, which is independent from Osaka University, advances laser fusion technology that aims to provide clean, limitless energy through fast ignition methods. The startup’s vision offers a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels and has the potential to redefine the global energy landscape. Kyoto-based Mui Lab (referred to as “mui Lab”) takes a unique approach to smart home technology with a concept called “Calm Technology” that combines energy efficiency with seamless, user-friendly design. Mui Lab, which has already partnered with major Japanese companies, aims to bring this technology-enabled harmony into homes around the world. Kobe-based OSINTech offers an artificial intelligence-powered platform called RuleWatcher. This helps companies navigate the complex landscape of global ESG regulations and enables them to stay ahead of the curve in sustainability compliance. Hyogo-based Pittan is transforming personal health with a non-invasive sweat patch that can monitor health and nutrition in real time. By making health monitoring more accessible, Pittan is rethinking the way individuals manage their health. Regional Fish Institute, a food technology startup from Kyoto University, uses genome editing to breed high-value marine species such as fast-growing sea bream, improving both aquaculture efficiency and global food security. Addressing concerns. Osaka-based robotics company Thinker is developing advanced proximity sensors and robotic hands that can automate repetitive tasks. The company’s unique technology, which can accurately detect the position and orientation of objects, has the potential to provide a solution to industries suffering from labor shortages.
meet the startup
With Kansai’s deep tech sector set to play a central role in the country’s 10 trillion yen five-year startup development plan, these six startups participating in SWITCH 2024 will be part of a new wave of innovation. Each of them has the potential to drive global change.
Interested parties wishing to connect with participating startups can express their interest by filling out this form.
This article was published in partnership with JETRO and For Startups. KrASIA is an event partner of Kansai Startup Mashups. The Kansai Startup Mashup is hosted by the Osaka Industrial Development Agency (OBDA) in collaboration with JETRO.
