Yokohama Matching Program 2026
Yokohama Needs YOUR Solutions!
After the incredible success of its first cohort of applications in 2025, Yokohama is running the Yokohama Matching Program once again in 2026!
Deadline for all applications: July 31, 2026, 11:59 PM EDT
2025 Success Stories
In 2025, the Yokohama Matching Program received 45 applications from startups around the world.
Among these 45 applicants, a few outstanding companies were selected, and several successful collaborations and business developments have already emerged. Check out the two articles below on two impressive showcases of the direct results companies are capable of achieving through the Yokohama Matching Program!
HealthyFood: Continued expansion and business development in Japan following the Yokohama Matching Program
Raven Materials: More than 10 PoCs launched with Japanese companies after participating in the Yokohama Matching Program
What We Offer
We understand that entering the Japanese market can be challenging, but with the right connections, it becomes an achievable and rewarding goal. Through this program, startups can benefit from the following according to their needs:
- Business Matching – Connecting your technology with Japanese companies actively seeking solutions.
- Proof of Concept (PoC) Support – Assistance in testing and validating your technology in real-world scenarios.
- Market Entry Support – Establishing trust and credibility with potential partners.
- Networking Opportunities – Engaging with key industry players and experts in Yokohama.
Why Yokohama
Yokohama is an ideal business destination for international startups.
There are a number of great reasons for this, but we can sum it up with three I’s:
- Ideal Location: Yokohama is accessible intentionally and close to the Tokyo market, while having cheaper prices for office space
- Innovation Hub: Yokohama is working hard to create support networks and opportunities for startups, and the large corporations already there mean there are plenty of partnering opportunities.
- Internationally Active: Yokohama is historically one of Japan’s most international cities, and has numerous opportunities and supports for global companies.
For more details on Yokohama as a business destination:
- Check out the short video embedded on this page! (Click here for full presentation)
- Listen to the Ecosystem Support 360 podcast episodes on Yokohama!
Program Innovation Supporters
Akihiro Hikita
COSIMO, LLC
Founder, CEO
Andy Kondo
Innovation Analyst
Kevin Ninomiya
ShibuLA Ventures
CEO, Co-Founder
Akihiro Hikita
COSIMO, LLC, Founder & CEO
After earning a degree in Economics from Sophia University, Akihiro Hikita joined Fuji Bank (now Mizuho Bank). He later studied Chinese in Shanghai and traveled through Asia for four months, completing the Annapurna Circuit—an experience that sparked his passion for international business. In 2003, he became country manager at Datastream Systems (later acquired by Infor Global), leading EAM system deployments in Showa Shell refineries and other industrial sites. In 2019, he joined the StartupBootCamp Osaka program as an Innovation Partner, facilitating 20 proof-of-concept projects between global startups and major Japanese firms. From 2021 to 2024, he led cross-border open innovation programs and supported Japan market entry for tech startups in collaboration with embassies, serving as CEO of Global DX Inc. Since May 2024, he has been the Founder & CEO of COSIMO LLC, based in Yokohama City. Initially focusing on technology transfer from Japan to Africa, he is now applying AI to support business succession in Japan.
Andy Kondo
Innovation Analyst
As President of the European division at a soldering materials manufacturer, Andy Kondo established production bases in Europe and expanded the automotive electronics business. After holding management roles at multinational firms, he founded Amplify Japan, providing technology scouting and trend analysis for Japanese companies. With a strong network in European universities and research institutions, he specializes in advanced technology exploration. Currently, as an Innovation Analyst at Amplify Japan, he delivers trend analysis reports from international exhibitions, focusing on mobility innovation.
Kevin Ninomiya
ShibuLA Ventures, CEO & Co-Founder
Currently based in New York, Kevin Ninomiya has a diverse range of experience spanning from startups to large corporations, working as an active startup supporter, ecosystem developer, and U.S. attorney. After working as a development engineer in the electronics industry, he gained experience in innovation-related roles in digital transformation (DX) and green transformation (GX) at large corporations. He also founded an EdTech startup. In 2023, he established the law firm Global Gateway Law and the venture studio ShibuLA Ventures, where he supports US market entry for startups and large companies. Additionally, he serves as an advisor for startups at major accelerators such as Berkeley SkyDeck and Silicon Valley’s Bronco Venture Accelerator.
Technologies from Previous Cohorts
AIoT Human Sensor using thermal signals
(United States)
Autonomous robot delivery system
(Malaysia)
Drone accurate landing & charge infrastructure
(Germany)
Resources in Yokohama
Tech Hub Yokohama
Located on Yokohama’s cutting-edge waterfront business district, Tech Hub Yokohama is fostering a vibrant community of startups and innovation supporters. Powered by partnerships with international accelerators like The Drivery, a mobility-focused accelerator, this hub is the gateway for global startups looking to make an impact in Japan.
GREEN EXPO 2027
Yokohama will host GREEN EXPO 2027, a world’s fair dedicated to cleantech, sustainability, and nature-based solutions. This event presents an incredible opportunity for international startups to showcase their solutions to a global audience, as millions of visitors from around the world will gather in Yokohama.
Business Support and Investment
Yokohama offers comprehensive support for international companies looking to expand into Japan, including startup visas, business matching, office and lab selection, subsidy guidance, and introductions to trusted legal and financial professionals. Whether you’re exploring the market or ready to establish operations, our team can help connect you with the resources you need to succeed. View our Business Support and Investment page HERE.