The Japanese government is set to transform the Kansai region, encompassing Osaka and Kobe, into a leading center for biotechnology and advanced medicine investments. This national growth strategy aims to revitalize the regional economy by fostering innovation and attracting global capital.
The momentum generated by the 2025 EXPO in Osaka has been pivotal, significantly enhancing the visibility and credibility of local startups. Events like the Global Startup EXPO 2025 attracted deep-tech entrepreneurs and investors, sparking substantial interest from overseas venture capital firms in the Kansai region's vibrant startup ecosystem.
Following the EXPO, several overseas VCs have revisited Kansai, indicating sustained interest and leading to ongoing investment and collaborative research opportunities. Organizations like JETRO and the Osaka–Kyoto–Kobe Consortium have actively supported these engagements, hosting events such as the Global VC Meetup beyond EXPO to further strengthen ties and facilitate global collaboration.
Michael G. Phillips of Alumni Ventures noted Kansai's strengths, including world-class technologies, a large patent portfolio, and robust government and institutional support, comparing it favorably to other Asian hubs. The region's focus on traditional medicine, drug discovery, and emerging biotechnology aligns with the EXPO's theme of 'Designing Future Society for Our Lives.'
Further solidifying its position, the Kansai region was selected as a Global Hub City under the Second Phase Startup Ecosystem Initiative, accelerating regional collaboration. The Osaka Healthcare Pavilion at Expo 2025 served as a symbol of this progress, showcasing innovations in regenerative medicine and drug discovery through partnerships between SMEs, startups, universities, and medical institutions.
What Happens Next
01Continued engagement with overseas venture capital firms to secure further investment.
02Expansion of collaborative research between universities, companies, and investors in the region.
03Development of new technologies and businesses in traditional medicine, drug discovery, and biotechnology.
