Japan-Boston Innovation Bridge
Hosted by Mitsubishi Corporation (Americas), Mitsubishi Electric, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Sumitomo Chemical, Sumitomo Heavy Industries, JERA, IHI, and Chiyoda Corporation.
Event will include reverse pitches, panel discussions, keynote speech by JETRO, and networking receptions. Come back to see the agenda details!
Agenda (Details to be confirmed):
-Keynote Speech: JETRO
-Session 1: "Strategic Early-Stage Engagement & Investment for Japanese Corporations"
Panelists: Mitsubishi Electric, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Sumitomo Chemical, Mitsubishi Corporation
Moderator: Rochard Collins, Senior Director of Research, Engine Ventures
This session explores the comprehensive approach Japanese companies take when engaging with early-stage startups, from initial relationship building to strategic investment decisions. Four Japanese corporations will share their experiences and strategies for identifying promising startups, conducting technical evaluations, and implementing due diligence processes. The discussion will cover key investment/partnership criteria, risk management frameworks, the evolving role of CVC and other relevant business groups, and balancing short-term ROI with long-term value creation.
-Session 2: "Japanese Corporations' Role in Scaling Deep Tech Solutions"
Panelists: Sumitomo Heavy Industries, IHI, JERA, Chiyoda Corporation
Moderator: Morgan Andreae, Executive Director, Future Energy Systems Center and Eni-MIT Alliance, MIT Energy Initiative
This session focuses on how Japanese corporations serve as strategic partners in helping startups achieve global scale. Four Japanese companies will present their unique capabilities in supporting startup growth through strategic partnership, joint development, implementation support, and academia collaboration. The panel will discuss successful partnership models, the value Japanese corporations bring to startup scaling efforts, and how cultural and operational differences can become competitive advantages in international expansion.