JETRO & Berkeley SkyDeck

JETRO (Japan External Trade Organization) and Berkeley SkyDeck have forged a strategic partnership that combines the resources and global reach of a Japanese government-affiliated organization with the entrepreneurial prowess and academic rigor of a leading university accelerator. This collaboration was established to foster innovation and facilitate the entry of promising startups into the Japanese market, while also exposing Japanese startups to the Silicon Valley ecosystem. JETRO, with its long-standing mission to promote trade and investment between Japan and the rest of the world, brings extensive market access, logistical support, and a deep understanding of the Japanese business landscape. Berkeley SkyDeck, as the official accelerator of UC Berkeley, offers a world-class program that includes mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs, access to a vast network of investors, and a curriculum designed to accelerate growth and secure funding. The partnership's investment thesis centers on identifying high-potential startups, particularly those with technologies or business models that could thrive in or benefit from the Japanese market, and providing them with the necessary support to scale internationally. Notable programs include specialized cohorts and initiatives designed to bridge the cultural and business gaps between Silicon Valley and Japan. Their geographic focus is inherently global, with a strong emphasis on facilitating cross-border innovation between the US and Japan. While specific portfolio highlights under this joint initiative are often integrated within SkyDeck's broader portfolio, the partnership aims to cultivate companies in sectors such as AI, biotech, fintech, and advanced manufacturing. What makes this collaboration stand out is its unique blend of governmental backing and academic-driven acceleration, offering startups an unparalleled pathway to international expansion and market penetration in a highly attractive, yet often challenging, market like Japan.