Sardinian startups connect with Japan’s tech ecosystem

On 1-6 December, a delegation of six innovative startups from Italy’s Region of Sardinia: APE (AgriTech), CERTY (AI & Cybersecurity), GENUINO BLOCKCHAIN (Product Traceability), ICARUS (HealthTech), LIVEGREEN (BioTech), and ROMBO AI (ICT), took part in an internationalisation programme held in Tokyo and the Kansai area.
The initiative, organised by the Italian Trade Agency (ITA) under commission from the Region of Sardinia, aimed to connect these startups with Japan’s thriving innovation ecosystem, creating opportunities for collaboration, investment, and market entry. During the week, the companies participated in workshops, networking sessions, and business meetings with Japanese stakeholders, incubators, and potential partners.

Key sessions were held at Tokyo Innovation Base (TIB) and LISH Takanawa Gateway in Tokyo, as well as KOIN Kyoto Open Innovation Network and Keihanna Science City in the Kansai region, concluding the programme at “Pasona Challenge Farm” in Awaji Shima, fostering joint projects in urban regeneration. The Sardinian startups presented innovative solutions across strategic sectors including agritech, sustainable technologies, and digital innovation, as part of the Region of Sardinia’s broader strategy to enhance the international competitiveness of its innovation ecosystem, supporting startups in accessing high-potential foreign markets and building long-term business relationships with global partners.

The programme was coordinated by ITA Tokyo under the guidance of Director Gianpaolo Bruno, in collaboration with local innovation networks and organisations, including TOKYO AI and LYNX, highlighting the strong and ongoing partnership between Italy and Japan in promoting entrepreneurship and sustainable innovation.

Source: Italian Trade Agency – Tokyo office
Picture caption: Italian delegations at ILS 2024