DeepTech Course: Bridging Japanese Innovation with Global Markets

The DeepTech Course, an initiative by JETRO (Japan External Trade Organization), is specifically designed to propel Japanese DeepTech startups and academic ventures onto the global stage. While the founding story isn't explicitly detailed in the provided content, the program's existence underscores JETRO's commitment to fostering international business expansion for Japanese enterprises. Its mission is clear: to support the overseas expansion and market entry for Japanese DeepTech startups and academia (pre-seed to Series A) by providing comprehensive mentoring, business matching opportunities, and high-impact pitch events. The core values revolve around empowering innovative Japanese DeepTech ventures to acquire critical knowledge for overseas expansion, build international networks, uncover potential market needs, and ultimately achieve business growth and fundraising success in global markets.

Program Structure and Timeline

The DeepTech Course is structured into three distinct phases, offering a blended learning and networking experience across Japan and the US:

1. Tokyo Bootcamp (3 Days): Held at JETRO HQ in Tokyo from September 30th to October 2nd, 2025, this initial phase prepares participants for the international journey. It includes workshops and 1-on-1 sessions designed to introduce the DeepTech landscape, highlight differences between Japanese and US markets, and cover fundamentals like product and market strategy, pitching, and fundraising. Approximately 20 startups will participate.

2. Berkeley On-Site Program (6 Weeks): Commencing around November 3rd, 2025, and running until mid-December, this phase is primarily based in Berkeley, US, with an option for online participation. It features workshops, 1-on-1 mentoring, mentor meet & greets, and an intern fair. While most workshops can be accessed online, in-person attendance in Berkeley is strongly encouraged for networking events. This phase is developed in collaboration with the Berkeley SkyDeck accelerator.

3. Online Program (6 Weeks): Following the Berkeley On-Site Program, this online phase focuses on driving forward participants' overseas expansion. It provides business meeting opportunities with international companies, alongside continued workshops and mentoring. Pitch training is also a key component, preparing selected startups for a Demo Day.

Mentorship and Network

A cornerstone of the DeepTech Course is its robust mentorship and networking framework. Participants benefit from 1-on-1 mentoring sessions from the very beginning, with feedback provided on business overviews, services, and market needs. Key mentors are selected based on this initial assessment. The Berkeley On-Site Program further expands this network through advisor meet & greets, connecting startups with a diverse pool of experts. The program's collaboration with Berkeley SkyDeck accelerator signifies access to a world-class entrepreneurial ecosystem and a broad network of investors and industry leaders.

What Makes it Unique & What to Expect

What sets the DeepTech Course apart is its tailored approach to bridging Japanese DeepTech innovation with global markets, specifically leveraging the Silicon Valley ecosystem through its Berkeley partnership. The hybrid model, combining in-person bootcamps and on-site US immersion with online support, offers flexibility while maximizing impact. Participants can expect a rigorous curriculum covering essential aspects of international business expansion, from market strategy and fundraising to pitch mastery. Day-to-day activities will involve a mix of lectures, interactive workshops, personalized mentoring, and invaluable networking opportunities with potential partners, investors, and industry experts. The program's focus on DeepTech sectors like Life Science, Big Data, Chip & Semiconductor, and FinTech ensures specialized guidance for these complex fields.

Investment Terms and Notable Outcomes

The provided content does not specify any direct investment terms or equity taken by the program. Similarly, no notable alumni are explicitly mentioned in this document. The program's success metrics are primarily focused on the objective of facilitating overseas expansion, market entry, and fundraising for its participants.