JETRO partners with Xploration Partners catalyzing open innovation between Japanese and overseas companies
The Collaborators
JETRO (Japan External Trade Organization) is a government-related organization that works to promote mutual trade and investment between Japan and the rest of the world.
Xploration Partners is a corporate innovation consulting firm headquartered in Silicon Valley that has experience working with many Japanese corporations including Mizuho, Panasonic, Nissan, Sony, Hitachi, Toshiba, NTT, Fujitsu, and ENEOS, among many others.
The Solution
JETRO launched the J-Bridge program, which aims to accelerate collaboration between US companies and Japanese J-Bridge companies to increase innovation and improve productivity in Japan. Leveraging Xploration Partners' extensive knowledge and network in the field of open innovation, this program offers mentoring, strategy development, market research, and business matching.
Since 2021, through the J-Bridge Program, JETRO and Xploration Partners have assisted 15+ companies. In September 2023, the third cohort of the J-Bridge Program launched where 5 up to 12 Japanese J-Bridge companies will participate to collaborate with U.S. companies and accelerate their innovation.
Program Highlights:
Market Research:
Xploration Partners conducts comprehensive tailored market research. This includes in-depth insights into market dynamics, competitive landscape, and technology and trend analysis, empowering Japanese companies to make informed strategic decisions.
Business Strategy Advice:
Xploration Partners offers tailored business strategy advice aligned with each company's unique business goals and objectives. This guidance enables companies to refine their strategies and optimize their approaches.
Business Matching:
The program facilitates B2B matching, a pivotal step in finding compatible partners for collaboration. This includes technical cooperation, joint development ventures, and proof-of-concept (POC) initiatives, fostering mutually beneficial alliances.
The Outcomes
Through this partnership, JETRO and Xploration Partners have laid the foundation for a wave of open innovation initiatives between Japanese and overseas companies. By harnessing the power of digital technology (DX), businesses on both sides of the equation are positioned to unlock new horizons, drive innovation, and expand their global footprint.
The collaboration between JETRO and Xploration Partners exemplifies the power of strategic partnerships in navigating the complexities of the global business landscape. Together, they have ignited the spark of innovation, bridging borders, and fostering collaboration that holds the potential to reshape industries and economies.
