Aichi Prefecture, Japan’s industrial powerhouse, has opened applications for Landing Pad 2025, a global business collaboration initiative targeting startups with cutting-edge solutions in environmental sustainability and advanced manufacturing. Through this program, selected startups will engage directly with leading Japanese corporations, benefit from tailored mentorship, and gain exposure to the Japanese market—all while showcasing their technologies at Messe Nagoya, Japan’s largest cross-industry trade fair.
Program Overview
Landing Pad 2025 offers international startups a unique opportunity to enter Japan’s thriving innovation ecosystem. The initiative is designed to match promising ventures with over 30 major corporations in Aichi Prefecture, helping participants build impactful partnerships and expand their business in Japan.
Key Offerings:
- Direct access to decision-makers from top Japanese manufacturers
- Tailored mentoring and Japan market education
- Support for Proof-of-Concept (PoC) development
- Free exhibition at Messe Nagoya (for selected startups)
- Continued business matching and follow-up support
- Access to STATION Ai, Japan’s largest startup hub (launching October 2024)
Focus Areas
- Environmental Sustainability / GX (Green Transformation)
- Next-Generation Manufacturing Solutions
Startups addressing critical industry challenges in these categories are encouraged to apply.
Program Timeline
- Application Period :June 16 – August 8, 2025:
Submit a PDF or slide deck. Early bird deadline: July 25, 2025.
- 1st Selection Phase August 11 – 19, 2025:
Submissions reviewed by Aichi experts and corporate partners.
- 1st Round Results August 20, 2025:
Selected startups notified.
- 2nd Selection (Online Pitches) September 1 – 5, 2025:
Live pitching sessions to Aichi companies.
- Finalists Announcement September 16, 2025:
Final cohort announced.
- Preparation Phase October 1 – November 2, 2025:
Mentoring, PoC planning, and logistical arrangements.
- Matching Program in Japan November 3 – 14, 2025:
In-person events, DEMODAY, and Messe Nagoya exhibition.
- Follow-up Support November 17, 2025 – March 31, 2026:
Continued corporate matchmaking and local support.
Participation Benefits
- Mentoring & Market Education
Expert-led guidance on refining business models and adapting go-to-market strategies for Japan. - Use Case Development
Customized support to tailor solutions for specific industrial challenges. - Business Matching Support
Facilitated introductions and one-on-one sessions with Japanese corporations, including tenants of STATION Ai. - Exhibition Opportunities
Free exhibition space at Messe Nagoya—Japan’s premier cross-sector business event. - Ongoing Support
Post-program assistance includes help with follow-up meetings, on-the-ground support for future visits, and continued PoC facilitation.
Key Events
- Demo Day:
Date: November 11, 2025 | Location: STATION Ai
A platform for finalists to present their solutions to corporate leaders and potential partners. - Matching Event:
Date: November 13, 2025 | Location: STATION Ai
Engage in curated business meetings aimed at forming concrete partnerships.
Selection Criteria
Submissions will be evaluated based on:
- Innovation in applying new or existing technologies
- Relevance to local industry challenges
- Feasibility and scalability of the product or service
- Market potential and competitive advantage
- Clarity of business impact
- Alignment with Aichi's industrial landscape
Startups must submit materials covering problem definition, business model, revenue generation, competition analysis, traction, team, and additional services offered.
How to Apply
Applicants must:
- Create an account on the program platform
- Submit a pitch deck (PDF or slide format) addressing the key criteria
- Apply before August 8, 2025
(Early bird applicants before July 25 may access consultations and Q&A opportunities).
Landing Pad 2025 offers a strategic gateway for startups aiming to scale in Asia’s third-largest economy by collaborating directly with Japan’s industrial leaders. Through access to expert guidance, real-world partnerships, and a rich innovation ecosystem, this program positions global startups for long-term success in the Japanese market.
For those ready to deliver impactful solutions in sustainability and manufacturing, Landing Pad 2025 presents a rare and valuable opportunity.