DeepTech Frontier Kansai

The heart of innovation

Deep tech that moves the world starts in Kansai.
Kansai is home to world-class universities, research institutions, advanced manufacturing companies, and global corporations in fields such as regenerative medicine, drug discovery, next-generation energy, quantum technology, and AI.
With this strong ecosystem, Kansai is working to become a global hub for deep tech and to share its potential with the world.

Kansai:
Leading the world
in deep tech startups

With Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe—designated as Global Startup Cities—at its core, research institutes, companies, and local governments across the Kansai region are working together to cultivate technologies and businesses that can compete on the global stage.

Throughout this website, “Kansai” refers to the eight prefectures that make up the Union of Kansai Governments: Osaka, Kyoto, Hyogo, Nara, Shiga, Wakayama, Tottori, and Tokushima.

Learn more about
the Kansai startup ecosystem here.

Why Osaka？

A major economic region with global standing

Kansai is supported by well-developed transportation infrastructure connecting Asia and the world. Many globally active companies have established bases in the region, creating a strong business foundation and an attractive market.
A research and industrial base that drives technological innovation

With more than 150 universities and research institutions, as well as a world-leading manufacturing cluster, the Kansai region offers outstanding research capabilities and advanced manufacturing technologies. In fields such as regenerative medicine, drug discovery, next-generation energy, quantum technology, and AI, it continues to produce promising startups with global potential.
A globally compelling mix of rich cultural landscape and urban appeal

World heritage sites, traditional performing arts, vibrant urban culture, and a renowned food scene have drawn strong global interest, while the region has also earned top-level recognition for its livability. With its rich cultural foundation and high quality of life in harmony, this region continues to attract innovation-driven talent from around the world and strengthen its global presence.

Key deep tech
fields in Kansai

Healthcare, Drug Discovery,
and Regenerative Medicine
Energy, Materials,
and Carbon Neutrality
AI, Quantum Technologies,
and Web3

Featured deep tech
startups in Kansai

Introducing Startups
thriving in Kansai’s
three Key Strength Areas

Bio & Life Science
Greentech
Digital Technology

Bio & Life Science

C4U

C4U is a biotech spinout originating from The University of Osaka that aims to develop new gene therapy methods and apply them to a wide range of industries using CRISPR-Cas3.
Greentech

EX-Fusion

EX-Fusion is the leading company in Japan aiming to commercialize laser fusion reactors. It is developing technology that has the potential to replace existing energy sources and significantly contribute to achieving carbon neutrality in 2050.
Digital Technology

HACARUS

HACARUS is on a mission to build the next generation of tools for those shaping the future with its proprietary AI core - built to provide big insights from small data. Since 2014 it has helped companies solve problems in manufacturing, construction and infrastructure, among other industries. HACARUS is especially good at turning human expertise into digital instruments, to streamline operations and save on labor. By providing a full suite of services, from support of data acquisition to integration with existing systems, the company is committed to create a future where humans and AI coexist.

Programs that support the
creation and growth of deep tech startups

Support for startup creation from university-based research discoveries	Support for early- and startup- stage business development	Acceleration of university spin-offs and industry matching services
Kansai Startup Academia Coalition	Kidou	Kansai Innovation Initiative
A Kyoto University-led university collaboration platform in Kansai	A Kansai-based incubation program for aspiring entrepreneurs and early-stage startups	A program supporting the commercialization and real-world implementation of deep tech seeds from Kansai universities
◯Supporting seed commercialization and talent development ◯30 universities across Kansai ◯60 industry, government, and financial organizations ◯Operating the GAP Fund	◯Collaboration with Kansai-based companies and universities, leveraging regional resources ◯Six months of hands-on support ◯Funding support of up to JPY 10 million	◯Industry matching and the creation of zebra companies ◯26 universities across the Kinki region ◯53 industry, government, and financial organizations