DWIH Deep Tech Launchpad Japan 2026

Deep Tech, Innovation & Technology Transfer in Tokyo and Kansai

© U Rostock / DWIH Tokyo

The DWIH Deep Tech Launchpad Japan 2026 is an exclusive, collaborative program offering research-based startups and sciencepreneurs from German universities a unique opportunity to explore the innovation and technology transfer ecosystems of Tokyo and the Kansai region (Kyoto/Osaka).

The program is specifically tailored for early-stage tech ventures (typically covering TRL 1–6) aiming to assess international potential, validate technology options, and connect directly with Japanese corporate partners, specialized deep-tech investors, and leading research institutions.

The DWIH Deep Tech Launchpad is jointly organized and conducted by the German Center for Research and Innovation Tokyo (DWIH Tokyo), the unisphere innovation campus, and the Center for Entrepreneurship (ZfE) at the University of Rostock, in cooperation with the supporter network of the DWIH Tokyo.

The Program at a Glance

  • Travel Dates: November 21 – 28, 2026
  • Locations: Tokyo & Kansai Region (Kyoto/Osaka), Japan
  • Target Group: Sciencepreneurs, research-backed founders, and early-stage deep-tech startups affiliated with German universities or research institutions (ideally at PhD level or higher).

Application Process

The application process for the 2026 cohort is now open. Applicants are required to designate a Team Lead to represent the project during the selection phase and on-site in Japan. If the venture is endorsed or supported by a home university, Technology Transfer Office (TTO), or campus startup center, applicants are requested to include this information in the submission.

The online application takes approximately 15–20 minutes to complete. A current pitch deck (PDF format) should be prepared for upload at the end of the form.

Partner Organizations & Quick Links

Funding & Background

The DWIH Deep Tech Launchpad Japan 2026 is a joint initiative under the new “DWIH Innovate” program, funded by the German Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR). This global initiative aims to strengthen entrepreneurial mindsets at German universities and research institutions and advance the internationalization of technology transfer and unlock strategic innovation ecosystems for talents from Germany.

Parallel to the launchpad in Tokyo, similar international immersion programs for research-based startups and sciencepreneurs are scheduled for India (DWIH New Delhi) and the USA (DWIH San Francisco). A call for participation in these programs will follow shortly.

Inquiries

For inquiries regarding the program, please contact zfe@uni-rostock.de.

Organizing Team

Dr. Martin Setzkorn
Geschäftsführer Unisphere Innovation Campus & Zentrum für Entrepreneurship

 

 

 

Axel Karpenstein
Director, DWIH Tokyo

 

 

 

Dr. Laura Blecken
Head of Programs, DWIH Tokyo

 

 

 

Yu Takeuchi
Communications Officer, DWIH Tokyo

 

 

 

Laura Allerborn
Intern, DWIH Tokyo

 

 

 

Published on: July 14, 2026