India Proposes Deep-Tech Capital Corridor to Boost Startup Ties at Tokyo Roundtable

Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal addressed the India–Japan Startup Roundtable in Tokyo, underscoring India's position as the world's third-largest startup ecosystem with nearly 250,000 registered ventures created over the past decade. The high-level gathering brought together government officials, venture capitalists, and leaders from around 40 prominent Japanese corporations to discuss expanding cross-border investments and technology partnerships. During the session, the Minister outlined a strategic four-pillar framework designed to institutionalize long-term bilateral startup collaboration. The central element of this initiative is the establishment of a Japan–India Deep-Tech Capital Corridor, aimed at mobilizing patient, long-term capital for early-stage research and commercializing breakthrough innovations. The proposed framework also includes a Two-Way Innovation Bridge connecting universities, research institutions, and incubators, along with joint pitching platforms to connect Indian entrepreneurs with Japanese investors. Furthermore, Minister Goyal highlighted India's planned second $1 billion Fund of Funds dedicated to deep-tech enterprises, inviting active participation from Japanese institutional investors. Highlighting synergies between India's engineering talent pool and Japan's advanced manufacturing capabilities, the discussions focused on high-growth sectors such as artificial intelligence, robotics, semiconductors, space technology, and healthcare. The initiative aims to move beyond ad-hoc engagements toward structured supply-chain integration, driving global competitiveness for startups from both nations.