Drawing on their respective perspectives as a leading institutional investor, venture capital firm, and innovation ecosystem builder, the speakers will examine what is needed to accelerate the growth of regional startups and strengthen Japan’s innovation ecosystem.

Key discussion points include:

• The importance of regional communities within Nippon Life’s sustainability strategy
• Why regional challenges should be viewed as system-level risks for institutional investors
• The significant potential of regional deep tech startups capable of competing on the global stage, even amid challenging conditions in Japan’s startup market
• How information asymmetry continues to hinder startup growth and how meaningful connections can help bridge that gap
• The role of long-term capital in supporting deep tech ventures, whose path to commercialization often requires sustained investment
• How the strategic alliance between Nippon Life and Granstory aims to accelerate innovation and generate greater impact for regional communities