Japan is the world’s fourth-largest economy, a global leader in advanced manufacturing, and a stable, innovation-driven market. It represents an attractive next step for European startups and scaleups seeking to expand sales and partnerships in Japan and across Asia.
In recent years, Japan has lowered market-entry barriers, simplified business setup, and eliminated many import tariffs under the EU–Japan Economic Partnership Agreement. At the same time, Japan has successfully attracted international capital, while Japanese investors and corporations are increasingly investing in overseas startups.
In this webinar, you’ll get a practical overview of how to approach Japanese for a business or technology development partnership—covering where the demand is, what support is available for piloting and business setup, and how to enter the market efficiently. We’ll spotlight Osaka, a fast-growing hub for innovation and global business, and share soft-landing opportunities and market entry lessons you can apply.
Time: 13 May 2026 9.00–10.30
Paikka: Webinar, Zoom
Programme
Welcome and introduction
Business Turku, EEN & Ciriot
Japan market overview: Current key trends and opportunities
Mr. Jarkko Jussila, CEO, Ciriot Inc. (Japan)
Why Osaka: startup & innovation scene
Ms. Nagisa Matsuba: Chief, International Affairs Department, International Business Promotion Center Osaka (IBPC Osaka)
Mr. Trung Pham: Chief, International Affairs Department, IBPC Osaka
- How Osaka is building a globally connected ecosystem—and how inbound companies can plug in through public-private programs. Overview of services, incentives, and soft-landing support.
VC landscape
Mr. Toshihiro Doi, OUVC Capitalist Osaka University Venture Capital Co.,Ltd OUVC
- Overview of venture capital & corporate VC in Japan, the role of university-based VC for European startups, and collaboration pathways.
Market entry cases: Lesson learned from real success stories
Mr. Jarkko Jussila, CEO, Ciriot Inc. (Japan)
Ms. Nagisa Matsuba, Chief, International Affairs Department, IBPC Osaka
Q&A
Ciriot Inc. supports Nordic and European SMEs in successfully entering the Japanese market by bridging business expansion strategies with practical execution through trusted local partners. With over a decade of experience in Japan, we help identify and introduce potential business and distribution partners, support business establishment in Japan, or act as a local market representative. We also facilitate connections with investors and support funding negotiations, as well as connect companies with technology partners for product development, localization, and pilot projects. Our approach is built on established networks, trust, and the creation of long-term, win–win partnerships essential for doing business in Japan and across Asian markets.
In collaboration with
