About

We are hosting a large-scale pitch contest titled "TechGALA CROSSBORDER Startup Showcase." This contest provides a platform for Japanese startups aiming for overseas markets and global startups targeting the Japanese market. We are widely inviting startups with innovative ideas and technologies that align with the five themes of TechGALA to change the world. Discover new partnerships and market expansion opportunities in Nagoya, the heart of Japan. Don't miss this chance to create the future together.

Event Overview

Content Theme

  • Mobility
    The Mobility Revolution
    Beyond Boundaries
  • Sustainable Environment
    Achieving a Sustainable Global
    Environment
  • Material
    Material Innovation -
    Strengthening Global Industry
  • Life Science / Well-being
    Pioneering Innovations in Life
    Sciences and Well-being
  • Advanced Technology
    Harmony with Technology -
    Industrial Innovation and Social Transformation

Eligibility Criteria

Target Participants
  • 1. Japanese startups aiming for overseas markets
  • 2. Global startups targeting the Japanese market
Prizes and Awards (Tentative)
Prize money 1,000,000 yen
Special meetings with decision-makers from major corporations Support for expanding into overseas or Japanese markets
Participation in side events celebrating the best and most outstanding awards
Access to VIP parties
Category for Each Theme (Example)
1.Automotive
new mobility, logistics and distribution, space-related (space environment, space exploration and space equipment), etc.
2.Energy
lifestyle (food, clothing, housing), etc.

3.Semiconductor
materials, manufacturing, precision machinery, etc.

4.Medical,healthcare
biotechnology, prevention, care,etc.

5.Robotics
Communications, IoT, XR, Security, Blockchain, EC, AI, Sharing, Matching, Drones, R&D, Apps, DX, SaaS, etc.

Pitch Contest Overview

Date and Time
Wednesday, February 5, 2025, in the afternoon
Location
Chunichi Hall, Nagoya
Details
Finalists will deliver a 5-minute pitch, followed by comments from the judges and an award ceremony.

Please note that pitches must be conducted in English.

Judge

Takeshi Isaku
Managing Executive Officer, Chief Innovation Officer, Musashi Seimitsu Industry Co., Ltd. Head of Musashi Innovation Lab Clue.
Keiko Usami
bp Japan, Head of Hydrogen - Japan
Eyal Agmoni
Founder, Chartered Group CEO, Chartered Investment Managers
Michiko Kato
Woven Capital Partner
Atsushi Suzuki
Marubeni Corporation General Manager of the Chubu branch
Yumi Goda
MUFG Innovation Partners Co., Ltd. Strategic Investment Div. Senior Associate

FAQ

Q.
Is it mandatory to pitch in English?
A.
Yes, you are required to pitch in English on the day of the event. If you are concerned about your English skills, you may incorporate pre-recorded videos into your pitch.
Q.
Can I apply without a recommender?
A.
Yes, you can apply without a recommender.
Q.
Can I apply even if I am considering overseas expansion but have no achievements yet?
A.
Yes, you can apply even if you currently have no achievements in overseas expansion. Please include your strategy for international expansion in your application documents.

Collaboration

At TechGALA, we also implement collaborative programs with various organizations.

A business plan contest originating from Aichi, aiming to create the next generation of unicorns, will be held within TechGALA as Season 3.

More