Deep Tech Forum Yokohama
Deep Tech Forum Yokohama 2025 is a global gathering of deep tech innovators, startups, and industry leaders focused on advanced manufacturing, climate tech, and industrial innovation. The event will explore how Japan’s cutting-edge manufacturing ecosystem connects with global deep tech ecosystems to drive new collaborations.
This year’s edition will feature thought-provoking discussions, startup showcases, and strategic networking designed to foster international partnerships and business opportunities.
📌 Keynote Speaker: Christopher Romans
Christopher Romans, a former Foreign Service Officer at the U.S. Department of State and Senior Manager for Government Relations at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America, brings deep expertise in energy policy, industrial transformation, and U.S.-Japan cooperation.
In his keynote “Urban Transformation in Houston: What Japanese Cities & Corporations Can Learn”, he will explore Houston’s rapid urban transformation, energy transition strategies, and the lessons Japanese industries can apply to drive sustainable growth and innovation.
📌 What to Expect at Deep Tech Forum Yokohama 2025
- Cutting-edge discussions on advanced manufacturing, climate tech, and cross-border deep tech collaboration
- Keynote by Christopher Romans, offering insights into global urban transformation strategies
- Panel discussions featuring deep tech investors, startups, and corporate innovators exploring new business models and partnerships Reverse pitches by leading Japanese corporations, highlighting their open innovation needs and potential collaboration opportunities
- Networking sessions, connecting Japanese industry leaders with international deep tech startups and investors
📌 Event Details
📍 Location: TECH HUB YOKOHAMA (Map)
📅 Date & Time: March 7, 2025 | 13:00 – 18:30 JST (Doors open at 12:30)
📍 Agenda
12:30 PM – Attendee Check-In & Networking
1:00 PM – Opening Remarks
– Sabrina Sasaki, Principal, Monozukuri Ventures
1:10 PM – Keynote: Urban Transformation in Houston – What Japanese Cities & Corporations Can Learn
– Christopher Romans, Former Foreign Service Officer, U.S. Department of State / Former Senior Manager, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America
1:40 PM – JERA Special Presentation: The Future of Energy Transition
– Shuji Munekuni, Head of the JERA Global Institute, JERA Co., Inc.
2:00 PM – Panel Discussion: Implications for GX Strategies of Japanese Companies
– Moderator: Emi Makino, Associate Professor, College of International Management, Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University
– Panelists: Christopher Romans and Shuji Munekuni
2:50 PM – Break
3:10 PM – Fireside Chat: Future of Deep Tech in Japan
– Masamichi Ando, Vice President, Business Incubation Center, Corporate Technology & Business Development Unit, Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
– Tomoya Yamashiki, Venture Partner, Monozukuri Ventures
4:30 PM – Special Presentation: Transition of AI Application: From Large-Scale DX to Small Business Improvements
– Shunsuke Kobayashi, Macnica
4:45 PM – Special Presentation: Tech x Prototyping–The Power to Make Innovation a Reality
– Jinto Horie, Nichinan Group
5:00 PM – Fireside Chat: Future of TECH HUB YOKOHAMA
– Kevin Ninomiya, ShibuLA Ventures
– Kazuo Nagasaki, City of Yokohama
5:10 PM – Deep Tech & Open Innovation – The Global Perspective
– Mai Yokomizo, Monozukuri Ventures
5:25 PM – Closing Remarks
– Narimasa Makino, Monozukuri Ventures
5:30 PM – Networking Reception
🔗 Event Details & Registration (in Japanese)
Supporting Organizations and Sponsors
Organizer: Monozukuri Ventures, a deep tech seed investor in North America and Japan, dedicated to supporting and scaling deep tech startups globally.
Support: Office of the City of Yokohama, advancing global innovation by bridging industries, fostering partnerships, and supporting collaboration between Japanese and international organizations.
Sponsors: Macnica, Nichinan Group and TEL Venture Capital