Hello Tomorrow Japan Challenge 2023

Discover innovative projects by outstanding deeptech startups, and meet experts, investors and large companies at Hello Tomorrow Japan Challenge!

Tickets for "Hello Tomorrow Japan Challenge 2023" are now on sale!

Hello Tomorrow Japan will be holding the "Hello Tomorrow Japan Challenge" on Tuesday, September 12 at CIC Tokyo ! 🎉

This event is an English-language pitch contest aimed at "early-stage deep-tech startups".🎤

A dozen of great deep tech startups will pitch their innovative projects in front of a jury of experts.🌏

Startups can attend for half price, while university personnel, students, and public organizations can attend for free! ✨

Don't miss this opportunity to meet the cutting-edge deep tech projects !💫

Please visit here to join this event !

🔗https://htjchallenge2023.peatix.com

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【Event information】

Date: Tuesday, September 12th , 2023 

Time: 17:00-20:00 (Door open: 16:30)

Venue: CIC Tokyo

Address: Toranomon Hills Business Tower 15F 1-chōme-17-1 Toranomon, Minato City, Tōkyō-to 105-6415  

Fee: 5000 yen for CCIFJ members / free for students, university personnel, public organizations

Language: English

To buy the tickets, please visit here : https://htjchallenge2023.peatix.com

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【Program】*Program is subject to change.

17:00 Welcome words - MC - Diane Deschamps

17:05 Hello Tomorrow CEO Greetings - Arnaud de la Tour - Hello Tomorrow

17:15 Keynote① - Pascal COP - Air Liquide 

17:30 Startup Pitch

19:20 Keynote② - Sano Norihiko - Boston Consulting Group

19:35 Award Ceremony

19:55 Closing Remarks

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【12 Finalists】

• Industrial Biotech & New Materials

① TopoLogic Inc.,　(CEO Taiki SATO)

TopoLogic is a University of Tokyo based startup, developing innovative electronics using topological material.

Topological material demonstrates unique physical properties not seen in conventional metals and semiconductor materials and since then has raised global interest in the academic field.

We focus on innovative “heat sensing technology” which visualizes heat in milliseconds, which is over 100 times faster than any other conventional sensor, and “magnetic memory technology” which is hundreds of times more energy efficient than conventional counterparts.

We aspire to become a technology platform which solves industrial issues across the globe, through electronics and semiconductor solutions.

② Galdieria, Co., Ltd

We research and develop products based on Galdieria sulphuraria, an extremophilic alga that inhabits hot springs, which can grow very efficiently and is promising for various applications such as 1) better precious metal adsorbent comparing to existing technology such as ion exchange resin, 2) environmentally safer gold adsorbent comparing to the existing method using mercury and hydrocyanic acid, and 3) cheaper and better food/ingredients with invaluable substance such as glycogen, ergothioneine, rare and promising antioxidant, and etc. We expect the product release in Japan by the end of this year and will be ready for global expansion soon.
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• Advanced computing & Electronics

③ Yometel Co., Ltd.

Established in 2018 for development of innovative RFID solution, together with university’s lab. Developed shelf/hanger antenna which enables automatic/realtime inventory accuracy. Accurate and realtime inventory is difficult as due-course of labor-intensive work, especially, realtime accuracy is regarded as impossible. We solve this world-wide “common pain” for supply chain, responding to “realtime-data” requirement from omnichannel supply chain, AI and reduce “out of stock”, “over production”, “deadstock”, “waste and disposal” in line with ESG and DPP (digital product passport, effective from 2026 in EU.) Supported by Japanese governmental technology development programs, such as SIP, NEDO, and METI’s subsidy.

④ Kepler Corp. (COO Yuta INOUE)

The information revolution is accelerating digital penetration. The interface between the digital and us is the display. We look at our smartphones and PC screens all day long, and our dependence on them is growing. The information displayed on these screens is "light. Kepler is revolutionizing the digital experience with "information texturing technology" that is the most natural for humans, does not burden the eyes and brain, blends into the environment, and even conveys the texture of information.

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• Environment & Biodiversity

⑤ Fermenstation Co., Ltd. (CEO　Lina SAKAI)

Fermenstation is providing a solution to upcycle and circulate unused biomass using its proprietary fermentation technology. Our solutions range from : manufacturing and sales of cosmetic raw materials, to co-development of original materials etc.

Utilization of unused biomass such as food waste, non-standard agricultural products and abandoned farmland remains to be solved at a global level. However, to overcome this issue, a solution capable of upcycling a wide range of unused biomass to a variety of appropriate products is expected. Here, we provide a solution based on our fermentation technology platform that allows us to handle diverse unused biomass and turn them into value-added products.


⑥ Algal Bio Co., Ltd. (CEO　Amane KIMURA)

"There is not enough earth" - Ongoing consumption of rapidly depleting natural resources continues to threaten the environment. Algal Bio aims to create "circular" society 

through the substantial application of algae to society and pass on a healthy environment for the future generation. In particular, we will work on three major global issues: 

increasing health consciousness in the age of 100 years of life x food crisis x global warming. Combining six different technologies and know-how such as an algae strain library, 

proprietary cultivation techniques, etc., we have built a very unique algae platform for applying algae in all industries and applications.

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• Food & Agriculture

⑦ EF Polymer K.K.　(Founder and CEO　Narayan Lal Gurjar)

EF Polymer is committed to being innovative and tackling global agriculture's water scarcity and bio-waste problems. With its breakthrough technology, EF Polymer upcycles bio-wastes such as fruit peels and manufactures a 100% organic and biodegradable super-absorbent polymer (EFP). Past field testing and PoC have proven that EFP can help farmers save water usage by 35-40%, prevent fertilizer from leaching into soil and reduce fertilizer usage by 20%, improve soil conditions, and increase yields and income by 15%.

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• Digital Health & Medical Devices

⑧ F.MED Co.,Ltd.　(CEO　Keita SHIMOMURA)

F.MED was established in 2021 for development and commercialization of microsurgery assist robot. Microsurgery is a surgical technique to connect extremely small human vessels by hands. Because of its technical and learning difficulty, only limited surgeons are capable of performing microsurgery. As a result, they have not been able to fulfill the patients’ treatment demand. The robot copies hand movement of operator surgeon with minimizing tremor and providing motion scale down, and perform microsurgery on behalf of surgeon’s hands by its unique fine work manipulator. It maximizes efficacy of surgical performance and skill learning.

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• Medical Biotech & Pharmaceuticals

⑨ MORPHEUS Inc.　(CTO　Hiroshi SAKAI)

• We aim to provide a safe treatment modality for central nervous system disorders using our proprietary technology platform, which enables highly efficient and safe drug delivery from the nose to the brain. 
• We hope to revive promising candidates that were discontinued due to their inability to cross the blood-brain barrier, offering patients the opportunity for expanded treatment options.

⑩ Revascular Bio (CEO Kazuo Omori)

Revascular Bio is a start-up from Osaka University aiming at the practical application of vascular endothelial stem cells, which were discovered for the first time in the world to have an essential role in blood vessel maintenance and angiogenesis.

We have already demonstrated the therapeutic effect of this stem cell on a several disease model and a cell culture method using human tissue. We are committed to developing new cell therapies that “truly change the lives of patients” using this technology.

⑪ Tokiwa Bio　(COO Toshinori MISHINA)

TOKIWA-Bio Inc. is a Japanese startup focused on the development of gene and cell therapies based on a breakthrough gene expression technology called "Stealth RNA Vector (SRV)." SRV is the world's first RNA vector capable of stable gene expression in cells, enabling the simultaneous introduction of more than 10 genes into cells, and also has innovative features allowing removal of genes from cells after transfection. Based on this technology, we aims to develop safe and effective therapeutics for untreatable diseases.

⑫ ORBIO Corporation

ORBIO is a Kyoto University/Hirosaki University startup established with the goal of eradicating mankind's greatest enemy, cancer, especially intractable cancer. Based on the discovery that "only cancer cells take up L-glucose," we have invented L-glucose-based drugs consisting of cancer biomarkers and anticancer agents, and have developed revolutionary cancer diagnosis and treatment methods. We have already tested the biomarker in pilot studies using clinical specimens from various types of cancers, and have also found significant curative effects in animal studies of therapeutic agents.

*Two startups below will also pitch as special guests !

-Tsubame BHB Co., Ltd　(CEO　Koji NAKAMURA)

TsubameBHB is an ammonia-related & deep-tech startup from Tokyo Institute of Technology. We have core technologies of catalysts that enable ammonia synthesis at lower temperatures and lower pressures than conventional production methods, and we have a track record of commercial sales in 2022.

Our ammonia synthesis system is decentralized and compact compared to conventional production methods. It is expected to promote decarbonization, reduce procurement risk, and be used for food security and next-generation fuels as carbon-free.

Our unique technology will contribute to solve environmental, food, and other issues related to our survival and realize a sustainable society.

-Elephantech Inc. (P-Flex Solution Sales Unit　Yoshihiko Saito)

Elephantech is a technology company that combines three technologies: nanoparticulated metal production technology enabling liquid ink, printing control technology including inkjet printer equipment and printing software creation, and high-speed copper plating technology.　By integrating these technologies, Elefantec has achieved mass production and sales of sustainable flexible substrates for the first time in human history using an additive method that does not use etching, which is conventionally used in manufacturing methods.

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【Judges】

Prof. Koichi Awazu, Ph.D. - Counselor, TIA Central Office, National Institute of Advanced Science and Technology (AIST), Japan

He received a Ph.D. related to structural defects in silica glass and the application of silica glass modified by high-energy beams. He joined AIST in 1991. He was on sabbatical leave at Université de Montréal (1996-1998).

He has been a research group leader on nanophononics and studied the fabricating of 3D nanostructures of ceramics, silica glass, and metals. His group developed a palmtop-type sensor to detect viruses based on nanofabrication.

In a funding agency, he was an electronic and information technology director at New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization. In his carrier of education, he was an adjunct professor at the Institute for Molecular Science and an adjunct professor at the University of Tokyo. Now he has had a position as an adjunct professor at the Kanagawa Institute of Technology. As a carrier of high-level management, he plans international collaboration. He has published over 210 reviewed articles.

【ABOUT AIST】

The National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), one of the largest public research organizations in Japan, focuses on the creation and practical realization of technologies useful to industry and society, and on “bridging” the gap between innovative technological seeds and commercialization.

Noriya Tarutani - Deputy Director General at Japan External Trade Organization, JETRO Innovation Department

Noriya Tarutani is the Deputy Director General at Japan External Trade Organization, JETRO Innovation Department, supervising and overseeing the JETRO startup program. With over 20+ years of experience in startups and international business, Noriya has played a pivotal role in assisting more than 500 Japanese companies in expanding their operations across the globe.

At JETRO, Noriya spearheads the startup program, leveraging his diverse expertise in AI, deep tech, enterprise software, SaaS, environment, and manufacturing. Noriya’s main goal is to support Japanese startups by connecting them with mentors, investors, and corporates.

During five years’ experience in San Francisco and Silicon Valley, He initiated the J-Startup program to showcase Japanese innovation at conference like CES and TechCrunch Disrupt SF. Noriya has also partnered with top tier accelerators such as Berkeley SkyDeck, Alchemist, and Techstars, providing startups access world-class resources, mentorship, and funding, empowering them to accelerate their growth and achieve remarkable milestones.

【About JETRO Startup】
JETRO is a Japanese government organization that promotes trade and investment between Japan and other countries. JETRO focuses on Innovation, working with mentors, accelerators, venture capital and any other ecosystem players to help startups expand their business overseas.
 

Kenji Minefuji - Business Innovation Group Manager / ME Innovation Fund Lead, Mitsubishi Electric

He joined Mitsubishi Electric as a new graduate in 2011. Worked on the research & development of optical communication technologies at the Information Technology R&D Center of the Corporate Research and Development Group before moving to the planning group of development strategy division within the Center to take responsibilities for formulating R&D strategies, allocating resources, and supporting execution.

Assigned to Center for Future Innovation of the Integrated Design Center of the Corporate Research and Development Group in 2017. Worked on the development of new businesses and the strengthening of existing businesses, based on open innovation. Transferred to the Business Innovation Group in April 2021 to play a leading role in the start-up of the "ME Innovation Fund" corporate venture capital.

Has a detailed knowledge in venture finance, as well as experience in hands-on support for a number of startups as a mentor.

【About Mitsubishi Electric】
Mitsubishi Electric is one of the world's leading names in the manufacture and sales of electrical and electronic products and systems used in a broad range of fields and applications. We're applying our technologies to contribute to society and daily life around the world.

Hirohisa Taniguchi - Manager of Scientific Directorate, Research and Innovation, Manager of Open Innovation ), Nihon L'Oréal K.K.

After his career as a researcher at NTT laboratories and a consultant in technology management, Hirohisa joined L'Oreal Japan in 2010 as Manager of Scientific Directorate, Research and Innovation, concurrently serving as Manager of Open Innovation since 2019. He is responsible for Strategic Foresight based on the monitoring of science and technology, as well as promoting cross-industry collaborations both with startups and established companies.

【About L'Oréal】
For over 110 years, L’Oréal, the world’s leading beauty player, has devoted itself to one thing only: fulfilling the beauty aspirations of consumers around the world. Our purpose, to create the beauty that moves the world, defines our approach to beauty as inclusive, ethical, generous and committed to social and environmental sustainability. With our broad portfolio of 36 international brands and ambitious sustainability commitments in our L’Oréal for the Future programme, we offer each and every person around the world the best in terms of quality, efficacy, safety, sincerity and responsibility, while celebrating beauty in its infinite plurality.


Maxime Santos - Head of Innovation Europe, Chugai Pharma France

As an engineer with a technological background, I joined the telecommunication industry for 10 years, building a strong multiskilled profile mixing IT, project management, marketing and innovation.

I joined "pharma" in 2015, with a global role at Ipsen. I was in charge of digital projects, medical devices, as well as internal digital transformation.

In 2018/2019, I created an innovation accelerator, to lead Technology Innovation at Global level, seeking for partnerships to increase Ipsen's efficiency when trying to leverage new technologies to improve patients' lives.

I joined Chugai in 2020 as Europe Head of Innovation, in charge of maximising our European portfolio with innovative solutions. My second mission is to enable our Japan headquarters to leverage the European innovation ecosystem, to help the Group reach their ambition in R&D but also increase Chugai's innovation footprint worldwide.

【About Chugai Pharma】

Chugai was established in Japan in 1925. Since then, it has continuously modernized its business management by building research laboratories and plants, and has contributed to healthcare in Japan and abroad through a variety of products.

Though a member of the Roche Group, Chugai maintains autonomous and independent management, employing a unique business model focused on innovation that values individuality and diversity.

We will collaborate with Roche to continue placing “innovative new drugs” at the core of our business. We aim to become a leading innovator in the global healthcare field, where a diverse range of players, not limited to pharmaceutical companies, are taking on the challenge of innovation.

TAKADA Kazuyuki - Director General - Startup Group, Innovation Promotion Department - New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO)

He currently serves the Deep Tech Start Up program (DTSU) that promotes startups’ cutting-edge technology development activities which can resolve worldwide common issues such as carbon neutrality, circular economy, economic security and so on.

He was temporarily assigned as Director for Office of Industrial Science and Technology Project Promotion at METI from 2021 April to 2023 June and promoted cutting edge technology national projects such as Artificial Intelligence (AI).

He has been managed various type of national technology development project at NEDO in the field of industrial technology areas such as aerospace, MEMS, machinery technologies as well as energy and environmental technology areas such as Biomass, Smart Community and so on.

He joined NEDO in 1997, served deputy representative at the Washington DC office during 2008-2011, director for Planning division at Technology Strategy Center during 2017-2021.

【About NEDO】
A national research and development agency that creates innovation by promoting technological development necessary for realization of a sustainable society



Pascal Cop - Air Liquide - R&D Open Innovation Manager Japan
Armed with a PhD in Chemistry, Pascal Cop’s proficiency spans from nano- and porous materials for heterogeneous catalysis, battery and gas sensing applications to fine chemicals for the semiconductor industry. This robust foundation facilitated the application and transfer of knowledge across various fields during his tenure at Air Liquide extending to diverse realms like tissue engineering, additive manufacturing, and data science.
Currently, Pascal COP manages Air Liquide's Innovation Ecosystem in Japan connecting innovation to market success. It's a reflection of both Pascal COP's and Air Liquide's shared values, emphasizing that the most influential innovation thrives within a network of experts from academic institutions, startups, and industrial partners.

【About Air Liquide】
Air Liquide is a world leader in gases, technologies and services for Industry and Health. Oxygen, nitrogen and hydrogen are essential small molecules for life, matter and energy. They embody Air Liquide’s scientific territory and have been at the core of the company’s activities since its creation in 1902. Our ambition is to be a leader in our industry, to deliver long term performance and to contribute to a more sustainable world.
Fostering customer-centric innovation is the central mission of the Innovation Campus Tokyo. Officially opened on March 28, 2019, this state-of-the art facility creates a collaborative environment fostering open-innovation and knowledge-sharing. Our joint research and development projects are formed in collaboration with our partners, including customers, SMEs, startups, business associations and academia.

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【Keynote】

①Pascal Cop氏 - Air Liquide - R&D Open Innovation Manager Japan
Theme: "Small Molecules for Sustainable Future: Leveraging Our Strengths  "

②Norihiko SANO - Boston Consulting Group

Theme: "Landscape of deep-tech in Japan and  in the world"

2008年にBCG入社。消費財・流通、気候変動・サステナビリティ、社会貢献グループのコアメンバー。小売・食品、バイオテクノロジーを軸に、生物多様性、サーキュラーシステム、フードシステム変革などのテクノロジーを駆使したサステナビリティ関連のプロジェクト、イノベーション戦略・業界連携のプロジェクトに従事。

【Boston Consulting Group (BCG)】

Boston Consulting Group partners with leaders in business and society to tackle their most important challenges and capture their greatest opportunities.

Our diverse, global teams bring deep industry and functional expertise and a range of perspectives that question the status quo and spark change. BCG delivers solutions through leading-edge management consulting, technology and design, and corporate and digital ventures. We work in a uniquely collaborative model across the firm and throughout all levels of the client organization, fueled by the goal of helping our clients thrive and enabling them to make the world a better place.

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【About Hello Tomorrow Japan】
Hello Tomorrow Japan initiates and propels collaboration between the world’s most promising projects and leading entrepreneurs, executives and investors. We support the local innovation communities since 2017, by hosting events addressing their areas of need and interest, and connecting the dots for those within our local ecosystem.

【Contact person】
diane.deschamps@hello-tomorrow.org or risako.yamamoto@hello-tomorrow.org 

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