Japan Creative/Entertainment Tech - Canadian Technology Accelerator

Do you want to expand your extended reality (XR - includes augmented reality, virtual reality, mixed reality) business? Join the Canadian Technology Accelerator in Japan!

The development of next-generation technologies is quickly evolving. The economic impact of the metaverse is expected to grow to USD $1.5 trillion by 2030. And, following Facebook’s name change to Meta, other globally leading companies including Sony and Panasonic have announced their entry into metaverse-related businesses. These developments are transforming business models in both the creative and entertainment technology industries, as well as in real estate, education, tourism, healthcare, and other verticals. This opens new opportunities for innovative Canadian companies.

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Important dates

What are the benefits of joining?

The Japanese CTA will give you:

• in-depth market briefings on doing business in Japan to better understand the culture, local market as well as import considerations
• access to key stakeholders from top-tier companies, investors and experts
• mentorship and advice on engaging with and pitching to key contacts in Japan
• workshop events with like-minded entrepreneurial organizations
• introductions to potential buyers, investors and strategic partners
• validation of your technology and tailored strategic advice its potential for your potential success in Japan

Who should apply

Companies must be interested in expanding into Japan and have technologies in:

• augmented reality or virtual reality
• the metaverse
• public installation technology
• digital art
• gamification or e-sports

Your company must have:

• existing market traction or a minimum of $1 million in paid-up capital
• an innovative, unique and export ready product or technology
• a strong interest and commitment to enter Japan
• a passionate, strong and committed management team with at least one senior executive (C-level or founder) who can commit to participating in the entire program
• a well thought-out Japan market-entry strategy to test in the market

The Trade Commissioner Service supports equity, diversity and inclusion in trade. We strongly encourage companies led by Canadians of all backgrounds to apply.

What you need to apply

How the program works

The Japan CTA program will be delivered online due to COVID-19 travel restrictions. Over 3 to 4 months, participants will benefit from tailored virtual support beginning on September 13, 2022 and will include one-on-one as well as group sessions.

The program will include:

• virtual market insights webinars and workshops on Japanese business culture and how best to navigate through Japan’s corporate structures
• gain market insights from the panel of industry experts or venture capitalists to improve pitch style to the Japanese market
• pitch opportunities to the potential buyers, investors and strategic partners
• four mentorship sessions offering tailored one-on-one engagement to help refine and validate your market entry strategy and support referrals to local contacts
• targeted business-to-business (B2B) meetings and networking opportunities with potential local partners, investors and clients
• one signature event in mid-October 2022 delivered with financial support from Canadian Heritage (PCH)

Testimonial

“The CTA experience was eye-opening. The Japanese market has become a more important market for us. We have new contacts, opportunities and ideas. The team was exceptional at connecting us with experts that guided us effectively. I look forward to sharing our results in the near future.” SmartPixel, Digital Tech CTA Spring 2021

“It was a fantastic program that provided an in-depth overview of the Japan business market and the potential for Canadian companies to succeed.” Ride Shark/Smart Cities CTA

Contact us

Learn more about this program by contacting:

Asami Karasuda
Trade Commissioner
Canadian Technology Accelerator - Japan
Canada's Trade Commissioner Service
Asami.Karasuda@international.gc.ca