New Initiative 'OIH GLOBAL BRIDGE' Launches Participant Recruitment to Support Startups Aiming for Global Expansion — Up to 1 Million JPY in Funding Support per Company

Last year, the Osaka-Kyoto-Hyogo-Kobe Consortium was selected by the Cabinet Office as a 'Global Hub City (Metropolitan Area Type)'※, advancing initiatives for Keihanshin to jointly foster and support startups challenging global markets.

In this context of regional collaboration, the Osaka Innovation Hub (OIH), a startup support hub operated by the Osaka Foundation for the Promotion of Industry, is launching the overseas expansion support program 'OIH GLOBAL BRIDGE' for startups from Osaka and the Kansai region aiming at global markets, and begins participant recruitment today.

The program will provide tailored, hands-on support based on each company's business stage and challenges, focusing on high-demand global sectors such as biotech, life sciences, green tech, and digital innovation. Leveraging OIH's network of overseas corporations, investors, and support organizations, the program will help create opportunities leading to overseas market validation, business partnerships, fundraising, and sales channel development.

In addition to providing local business meeting opportunities, the program will support participants through overseas expansion strategy refinement, establishing connections with local partners, and offering up to 1 million JPY in funding per company, providing practical support to accelerate global market entry.

Prior to the program launch, an information session will be held on Tuesday, June 30. The session will include a detailed program overview and a talk session featuring startups that have previously participated in OIH's global expansion support programs, sharing their real-world experiences and insights.

※Announced on June 5, 2025: The Keihanshin collaborative startup ecosystem was selected as the national 'Global Hub City (Metropolitan Area Type).'

https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000152.000090165.html

【Main Support Components】

・Pre-Travel Support

Comprehensive support will be provided based on each company's business phase and needs to prepare for overseas expansion. This includes planning overseas trips, identifying potential business partners, regular mentoring to monitor progress and challenges, and expert support as needed.

・Overseas Travel Support

The program plans to provide overseas travel opportunities, primarily to the U.S., APAC, and Europe, utilizing local networks and events. Based on individual company needs, support will include identifying potential partners, arranging and attending one-on-one meetings, and follow-up activities to help achieve tangible overseas expansion outcomes.

・Funding Support

Up to 1 million JPY per company

(Main Eligible Expenses)

● Airfare and local accommodation costs for overseas business activities

● Local transportation costs at the destination

● Exhibition and event participation fees, etc.

【OIH GLOBAL BRIDGE Recruitment Overview】

Eligibility Criteria (Startups must meet all of the following conditions)

● Must have developed or commercialized a product or service capable of overseas business discussions, or possess a prototype. (For R&D-focused startups, a development team must be established.)

● Must be a startup established within the last 10 years, in principle.

● Must be currently implementing or have concrete plans for overseas expansion.

● Founders, executives, or business leaders with decision-making authority must be able to participate.

● Must demonstrate willingness to contribute to the development of Osaka's startup ecosystem.

● Must already have a base in Osaka Prefecture or plan to establish one. For the latter, the base must be established within two months of the program start and maintained in Osaka Prefecture for at least two years.

※Head office, branch, sales office, or co-working space. Registration is not required.

● Must be able to attend all mandatory events organized by the host, including orientations, reporting sessions, and surveys.

Number of Selected Companies

Approximately 10 companies

Participation Fee

Free

※No fees are required to apply for the program.

※Domestic travel expenses and meals during overseas trips, not covered by the support budget, are the participant's responsibility.

Application Period

Tuesday, June 16, 2026 – Tuesday, July 14, 2026

Selection Process

An initial document-based screening will be conducted. Shortlisted candidates will undergo an English-language presentation review (second screening), followed by final selection.

Announcement of Selected Companies

Late July 2026 (tentative)

Details and Application

For more information and to apply, please visit the URL below.

Program URL: https://www.innovation-osaka.jp/oih-global-bridge

Pre-Information Session for 'OIH GLOBAL BRIDGE' on June 30 (Tue) We will introduce the program details and selection process, and host a talk session with startups that have previously utilized OIH's global expansion support programs, sharing real experiences and lessons learned. Individual consultations will also be available, so anyone interested is welcome to join.

Event Date and Time: Tuesday, June 30, 14:00–16:00 (Doors open at 13:30)

Application Deadline: Monday, June 29, 17:00

For details and registration, please visit:

https://oihglobalbridge2026.peatix.com

Organizer: Osaka Foundation for the Promotion of Industry

Operator: Plug and Play Japan Inc.