Japan’s startup ecosystem has seen remarkable growth in recent years, with a rising number of incubators and accelerators playing a crucial role in fostering innovation across a variety of different industries.
These organisations provide early-stage companies with mentorship, funding opportunities and access to valuable industry networks, helping them scale in competitive markets.
As Japan continues to position itself as a global tech hub, incubators and accelerators are bridging the gap between entrepreneurs and investors, offering resources tailored to various industries, from AI and fintech to sustainability and deep tech.
What Is Japan’s Economy and Startup Environment Like?
Boasting the world’s third-largest economy, Japan is known for its strong industrial base, advanced technology and global corporations like Toyota, Sony and SoftBank.
While the Japanese economy has historically been dominated by large enterprises, Japan’s startup ecosystem has been growing rapidly, supported by government initiatives, venture capital and accelerator programmes.
Cities like Tokyo, Osaka and Fukuoka are becoming hubs for innovation, particularly in fintech, AI and deep tech. Challenges including risk-averse business culture and regulatory hurdles remain, but increasing foreign investment and startup-friendly policies are beginning to help foster a more dynamic entrepreneurial landscape. Ultimately, Japan’s startup scene is evolving into a key driver of economic growth.
Top Japanese Accelerators and Incubators
Incubators and acclertors have become a really important contributor to the success of startups around the world, and in Japan, the market for these types of enterprises is growing. Here are the top 9 incubators and accelerators in Japan.
Archetype
Archetype is a Tokyo-based venture capital firm and startup incubator with a keen focus on early-stage tech companies. Founded with the goal of fostering innovation in Japan, Archetype provides funding, mentorship and strategic support to startups in sectors like artificial intelligence, fintech and enterprise software.
The incubator is known for its hands-on approach, helping startups refine their business models and scale efficiently. Its network includes seasoned entrepreneurs and investors, providing valuable resources to emerging companies.
By combining capital with deep industry insights, Archetype has played a key role in launching several successful Japanese startups
Plug and Play Japan
Plug and Play Japan is a subsidiary of the global Plug and Play Tech Center, one of the most renowned startup accelerators in the world.
Launched in Japan for the purpose of fostering innovation, it connects startups with corporate partners, investors and government agencies. It offers industry-specific programs in areas including fintech, mobility and healthtech, helping startups gain traction in competitive markets.
The accelerator provides mentorship, funding opportunities and global networking, making it a premier launchpad for Japanese startups looking to expand internationally. With strong corporate partnerships, Plug and Play Japan is a key driver of Japan’s startup ecosystem.
Impact Hub Tokyo
Impact Hub Tokyo is part of the global Impact Hub network, a community-driven incubator that supports social entrepreneurs and impact-driven startups. It provides co-working spaces, mentorship and networking opportunities to businesses aiming to solve social and environmental challenges.
Unlike traditional accelerators, Impact Hub Tokyo emphasises collaboration and sustainability, fostering a community of like-minded entrepreneurs. Startups benefit from workshops, funding support and connections with investors who prioritise social impact. The hub has helped numerous companies scale their solutions both in Japan and globally, making it a leading space for mission-driven innovation.
X-Hub Tokyo
X-Hub Tokyo is an accelerator programme that was initiated by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government to help Japanese startups expand globally and attract international businesses to Japan. It provides tailored mentorship, business matching and networking events, allowing startups to connect with global investors and corporations.
The programme supports companies in deep tech, AI and fintech, among other sectors, by offering access to international business opportunities. Unlike traditional accelerators, X-Hub Tokyo acts as a bridge between Japanese and foreign markets, making it a really important and helpful programme for startups aiming for cross-border expansion.
SAP.iO Foundry Tokyo
SAP.iO Foundry Tokyo is the Japanese branch of SAP’s global startup accelerator programme. It focuses on early-stage enterprise software startups, offering them mentorship, technical support and integration opportunities within SAP’s ecosystem.
By connecting startups with SAP’s extensive network of corporate partners, the programme helps businesses scale quickly. Unlike traditional incubators, SAP.iO Foundry does not take equity in the startups it supports, making it a unique initiative in Japan. Startups gain access to SAP’s advanced technologies, including AI and cloud computing, positioning them for success in the enterprise software market.
Aoyama Startup Acceleration Center (ASAC)
Aoyama Startup Acceleration Center (ASAC) is a Tokyo-based incubator supporting early-stage startups through structured acceleration programmes. Operated by Aoyama Gakuin University, ASAC provides mentorship, office space and access to a strong network of investors and entrepreneurs.
The programme covers various industries, with a particular focus on technology and sustainability. ASAC distinguishes itself by offering tailored business development support and networking events that connect startups with potential partners.
Plenty of successful startups in Japan have leveraged ASAC’s resources to refine their business models and secure funding, making it a well-regarded accelerator in the ecosystem.
GOB Incubation Partners
GOB Incubation Partners is a Japanese accelerator focused on supporting startups in the early stages of development. It provides mentorship, funding assistance and strategic guidance to help companies refine their business models. The incubator takes a hands-on approach, working closely with entrepreneurs to develop sustainable growth strategies.
GOB also runs educational programmes to foster entrepreneurship in Japan. Its strong focus on innovation and business fundamentals has helped numerous startups succeed in competitive industries.
By connecting startups with experienced mentors and investors, GOB Incubation Partners plays a vital role in Japan’s startup ecosystem.
Open Network Lab (Onlab)
Open Network Lab (Onlab) is one of Japan’s leading startup accelerators, established by Digital Garage to support early-stage tech companies. Onlab provides funding, mentorship and networking opportunities, with a strong focus on AI, blockchain and SaaS startups.
The programme includes demo days, where startups pitch to investors and corporate partners, increasing their chances of securing funding. Indeed, the proof really is in the pudding as many startups that have passed through Onlab have gone on to become industry leaders.
With a track record of nurturing high-growth companies, Open Network Lab is one of Japan’s most respected accelerators.
ABBALab
ABBALab is a Tokyo-based incubator specialising in hardware and IoT startups. It provides early-stage funding, prototyping facilities and mentorship to entrepreneurs developing innovative physical products.
Unlike traditional accelerators focused on software, ABBALab supports startups in manufacturing, robotics and smart devices. Its partnerships with major corporations and research institutions give startups access to cutting-edge technology and funding opportunities.
ABBALab has played a key role in fostering Japan’s hardware startup ecosystem, helping many companies bring their products from concept to market.
