Tokyo’s Startup Strategy: Building a Global Innovation Capital by 2050

Tokyo has long been recognised as one of the world’s most technologically advanced cities. From robotics and consumer electronics to advanced manufacturing, Japan’s capital has played a central role in shaping global technology industries.

Yet when it comes to startups and venture capital, Tokyo has historically taken a more cautious path compared with Silicon Valley, London or Singapore. That is now changing. In recent years, Japan’s policymakers and industry leaders have begun to push for a stronger startup ecosystem capable of competing on the global stage.

One of the most visible manifestations of this ambition is SusHi Tech Tokyo, a rapidly growing global innovation conference that forms part of the city’s broader strategy to become a leading startup hub.

The Tokyo 2050 Strategy

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government has articulated an ambitious vision through its Tokyo 2050 Strategy, which includes initiatives designed to support entrepreneurship, attract international startups and strengthen collaboration between industry and academia.

A key element of this strategy is the recognition that innovation increasingly takes place within ecosystems rather than individual companies. Startups, investors, research institutions and large corporations must work together to develop and commercialise new technologies.

SusHi Tech Tokyo therefore functions not only as an event but also as a catalyst for building these connections.

Strengthening the Startup Pipeline

Japan’s startup ecosystem has grown significantly in recent years. Government programmes have expanded funding opportunities, while universities are increasingly supporting the creation of spin-off companies based on academic research.

University startups represent a particularly important segment of the ecosystem. Japan’s universities produce world-class research in areas such as artificial intelligence, robotics, materials science and biotechnology. Transforming these discoveries into globally competitive companies is now a national priority.

By showcasing university startups and research-driven ventures, SusHi Tech Tokyo aims to connect these emerging companies with investors and international partners.

Corporate Collaboration

Japan’s large corporations remain among the world’s most influential technology companies. However, the pace of innovation in sectors such as AI and digital services has encouraged many of them to adopt more open innovation strategies.

This has led to an increase in corporate venture capital, accelerator programmes and partnerships with startups.

SusHi Tech Tokyo provides a platform where these collaborations can take shape. Corporate participants use the event to identify emerging technologies, explore partnerships and connect with startups working on new solutions.

This interaction between startups and established companies is increasingly seen as essential for driving innovation.

Attracting Global Talent and Capital

For Tokyo’s startup ambitions to succeed, international participation will be crucial. While Japan has a large domestic market, global expansion is often necessary for startups seeking rapid growth.

SusHi Tech Tokyo therefore places strong emphasis on international engagement. Delegations from countries around the world attend the event to promote their startups, explore partnerships and connect with Japan’s innovation ecosystem.

Global investors also participate in dedicated sessions examining trends in venture capital and technology investment. These discussions provide insights into how Japan’s startup ecosystem is evolving and where opportunities may lie.

A City as a Testbed for Innovation

Another distinctive aspect of Tokyo’s strategy is the focus on urban innovation. Cities increasingly serve as living laboratories where new technologies can be tested and refined.

Artificial intelligence, robotics and digital infrastructure are already transforming urban services, from transportation and healthcare to disaster management and environmental monitoring.

SusHi Tech Tokyo highlights these developments by bringing together innovators working on technologies designed to improve urban life.

Looking Ahead

Building a globally competitive startup ecosystem is a long-term endeavour. Silicon Valley, for example, developed over several decades through a combination of academic research, venture capital and entrepreneurial culture.

Tokyo’s strategy reflects a recognition that similar ingredients are required to foster innovation. By creating platforms such as SusHi Tech Tokyo and supporting collaboration across sectors, the city is working to strengthen its position within the global technology landscape.

Whether Tokyo ultimately emerges as one of the world’s leading startup hubs will depend on the continued growth of its innovation ecosystem. What is already clear, however, is that the city has begun to move decisively in that direction.