The Client

Established on March 25, 2022, the INVEST IN AICHI-NAGOYA CONSORTIUM is an initiative aimed at fostering innovation, revitalizing industries, and expanding employment in Aichi Prefecture and Nagoya City.

Comprising Aichi Prefecture, Nagoya City, Nagoya Industries Promotion Corporation, and Nagoya University, the consortium sets out to promote the entry and establishment of foreign companies in the region.

The Problem

The consortium sought to connect with foreign innovative companies in AI and manufacturing. Their objectives were twofold:

1. To host an online business seminar to educate startups about conducting business in Japan.

2. To organize a "Smart Manufacturing Summit" in Aichi, Japan, where startups could pitch and engage in business matching with local Japanese corporate giants like Toyota, Denso, and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries.

Despite their ambitious goals, the consortium faced a significant challenge: the lack of network and access to top USA-based startups in AI and manufacturing. Without the right connections, achieving their project objectives seemed like an insurmountable task. Recognizing this hurdle, the consortium turned to Xploration Partners for guidance and expertise.

The Solution

Xploration Partners bridged the gap between the consortium and the global startup ecosystem. Leveraging our extensive networks and industry expertise, we embarked on a mission to identify and connect the consortium with startups that aligned with their vision and objectives.

Through meticulous research and strategic networking, we identified over 40 directly relevant startups and connected the consortium to these companies.

The Outcomes

After a thorough investigation of the 40+ startups, the consortium selected the AI startup Overview. Based in the Silicon Valley, Overview specializes in developing automated inspection solutions leveraging AI vision technology. Led by Chris Van Dyke, Overview had already made significant strides, participating in prestigious programs like Y Combinator and securing partnerships with industry titans like Volvo, Honda, and Mitsubishi.

Recognizing the potential synergies, we facilitated their participation in the consortium's online business seminar. The seminar proved to be a transformative experience for Chris and Overview. Immersed in the nuances of Japanese business culture, they gleaned invaluable insights that would shape their approach to the Japanese market. Armed with newfound knowledge and inspired by the collaborative spirit of the consortium, Chris expressed his optimism about expanding Overview's footprint in Japan in the years to come.

As the culmination of our efforts, Overview is set to attend the "Smart Manufacturing Summit '' in Aichi, Japan, from March 13th to 15th, 2024. Through this partnership, Chris will pitch his startup during the summit and engage in business matching with local Japanese corporations and leaders.

Conclusion

Xploration Partners’ collaboration with the INVEST IN AICHI-NAGOYA CONSORTIUM exemplifies the power of strategic partnerships in driving innovation and fostering cross-border collaboration. As we continue to facilitate connections and bridge gaps, we remain dedicated to shaping a future where innovation knows no boundaries.

Xporation Partners is proud to be at the forefront of this transformative journey, and we look forward to forging many more meaningful partnerships in the pursuit of innovation and progress.