EU-Japan Centre for Industrial Cooperation Policy Seminar
Learning from Europe's Innovation Ecosystem―Implications and Lessons for Japan

Thursday 4 September 2025, 16:30-18:00 Tokyo (9:30-11:00 Brussels)
(Japanese language only / Free event on Zoom webinar)

There is a growing recognition in advanced countries around the world that innovation ecosystems—systems that stimulate innovation through collaboration among industry, government, academia, and the financial sector—are essential for enhancing productivity and achieving sustainable growth.

In this field, Japan has traditionally shown strong interest in the U.S. model, typified by Silicon Valley. However, in recent years, attention has been shifting toward the European system. Given that Europe shares many similarities with Japan in terms of historical and cultural background as well as economic and industrial structures—and is also characterized by a high degree of diversity—deepening our understanding of European innovation ecosystems and promoting collaboration may contribute to revitalizing Japan’s own ecosystem and strengthening its competitiveness.

At this very moment, intergovernmental negotiations are underway for Japan to become an associate member of Horizon Europe (2021–2027), the EU’s €95.5 billion research and innovation program.  This policy seminar will feature three expert speakers based in Europe who closely follow the latest developments in the region. They will report on recent trends in the European innovation ecosystem, followed by a discussion among participants about implications and lessons for Japan.

Please register using the link below.

Agenda

16:30 -17:30 (9:30 - 10:30)  Keynote speeches
-    Toshiyasu Ichioka, Director, RIKEN Europe Office
-    Fumiaki Ebihara, Director General, NEDO Europe
-    Hideo Yura, Director General, JETRO London

17:30-18:00 (10:30-11:00) Panel discussion
Moderator: Yasuo Tanabe, Japan-side Managing Director, EU-Japan Centre for Industrial Cooperation

Registration: This webinar will be held on ZOOM. Please click this ZOOM link for registration.

Q&A: Registrants can enter questions in the Questions & Comments section of the registration screen.  Due to time constraints, it may be difficult to answer all the questions. Thank you for understanding.