(Original post on Medium by Sabrina Sasaki from Monozukuri Ventures)

After a hectic year with activities in Toronto, NYC, Pittsburgh, Kyoto, Boston & the Bay Area, it’s time to recap some of highlights of the event series we co-hosted in Canada, the US & Japan, as we plan the next gatherings in 2025!

Earlier this year, I shared some initial thoughts on the series of events we kicked off in 2024:

Deep Tech Forum 2024: The Future of Robotics, AI & Automation in Manufacturing from North America to Japan — March 7th & 8th in Kyoto!

Winter

• Jan 15th: Deep Tech Forum Toronto at Tory’s LLP
• Jan 17th: Deep Tech Forum NYC at IndieBio NY
• Jan 19th: Deep Tech Forum Pittsburgh at Robotics Factory

Spring

• March 8th: Deep Tech Forum Kyoto (Japan)
• April 30th: Monozukuri Hub Meetup with J-BRIDGE: Global Robotics Innovation Welcome Reception in Boston with JETRO.

Fall

• Sept 24h: Deep Tech Forum NYC — Climate Tech with HAX/SOSV in Newark, NJ
• Oct 15th: Deep Tech Silicon Valley at Venture Lab Niterra Group in Santa Clara, CA

The only place where we co-hosted two events in less than 10 months was NYC metro area, where our events in January at IndieBio and September at HAX Newark helped to highlight the new wave of innovation happening beyond SaaS/fintech hubs, mainly focused on hardtech, deep tech and climate tech, where physical solutions that will impact carbon emissions actually happen!

https://cdn.embedly.com/widgets/media.html?src=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fembed%2FFmYz4mmf2q4%3Ffeature%3Doembed&display_name=YouTube&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DFmYz4mmf2q4&image=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2FFmYz4mmf2q4%2Fhqdefault.jpg&key=a19fcc184b9711e1b4764040d3dc5c07&type=text%2Fhtml&schema=youtubeSusan Schofer, Chief Science Officer of HAX, SOSV’s Keynote Address: Can Hard Tech Drive Net-Zero? Innovating for Globally Secure Supply Chains.

This time we chose the new HQ of HAX in Newark, one of the most relevant hardtech accelerators in the world, as part of SOSV, a global venture capital firm providing investments to support deep tech founders. Many hardtech founders in the startup community have mentioned they were not aware of this new hub, since HAX used to be based in Shenzhen, China. More over, SOSV Closed in 2024 a Climate Tech Startup Fund of $306 Million, which will be helping to accelerate the pace of startups disrupting the dirty, dull, dangerous and dear, a.k.a the 4 Ds of robotization (more on this Forbes‘s article).

So why does it make sense to co-host an event in Newark during Climate Week NYC? In order to understand the deep tech startup ecosystem, we must expand our reach beyond Manhattan, where most financial players are based, and consider the entire metro area, where supply chain, logistics and manufacturing players are based!

Many Japanese manufacturing companies I met recently haven’t been aware of how their own industry is currently facing major changes in the way things are done in the US, from supply chain and logistics to procurement, considering new goals on carbon footprint reduction and overall a more sustainable production. And most surprisingly, how the semiconductor and manufacturing industries will need to improve their current processes in order to survive the next wave of automation influenced by advances in AI and autonomous solutions aligned with new decarbonization goals.

NYC: The New Epicenter of Deep Tech Innovation — How Robotics, AI & Automation are Tackling Climate Challenges

In the fast-evolving landscape of climate technologies, New York City is quickly emerging as a central player, bringing together many ecosystem players in deep tech innovation, specially in robotics, AI, automation, thanks to the urban and mobility tech market potential.

The city’s historical importance as a trade and financial hub, alongside robust educational and research institutions and strong governmental support, has positioned NYC at the forefront of what may be the most significant technological shift in urban and environmental sustainability.

But how exactly are these deep tech fields — primarily robotics, AI, and automation — poised to address some of the world’s toughest climate challenges? And what does NYC’s unique ecosystem offer that sets it apart from other tech hubs? These are some of the questions to be further discussed within our next events.

NYC’s Deep Tech Edge: Where Robotics and Climate Solutions Intersect

Climate tech is a term that has gained momentum in recent years, and each corporation or investment firm might have its own interpretations and/or detailed metrics. But at its core and in order to make it simplified for our own conversations, we’d assume it’s a “tech with a focus on reducing waste and carbon footprint”

From minimizing carbon emissions to optimizing resources and waste management, climate tech solutions aim to make every aspect of life more sustainable. Within this realm, robotics and automation play an essential role in enhancing efficiency, reducing energy use, and innovating manufacturing processes, from how raw materials are sourced, transported and transformed into final products, which in turn will be distributed via logistics centers across the globe.

One example brought at the panel discussion was Standard Bots, a company designing and manufacturing robotic arms entirely within the United States. By localizing production, they not only reduce the environmental impact associated with overseas manufacturing but also help create a supply chain less reliant on global logistics — a critical step in reducing carbon footprints and making tech solutions more sustainable.

Advanced Manufacturing for Sustainability: The New Industrial Evolution

Manufacturing has traditionally been a major source of carbon emissions and environmental degradation. However, with NYC’s deep tech focus, the industry is shifting toward advanced, decentralized manufacturing that aims to support sustainability targets in urban areas.

Robotics and automation are at the heart of this transformation, enabling more efficient production processes that cut down on waste and energy use.

Yet, despite these advances, onshoring production still faces challenges. New business models, cutting-edge technology, and innovative supply chain strategies are essential to making onshoring feasible, sustainable, and cost-effective. The push for onshoring is partly driven by government policies, such as the Investing in America plan and the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), which encourage clean energy investments and infrastructure upgrades.

Investment and Corporate Appetite in Climate Tech

NYC’s position as a climate tech epicenter isn’t only due to robotics and innovation. A thriving investment landscape, backed by city, state, and federal incentives, is fueling climate-focused startups. Recent trends show a transition from simply creating enabling technologies to integrating solutions that address concrete environmental issues. This shift has garnered substantial interest from corporations eager to engage with early-stage startups and implement climate tech solutions in their own operations.

Government initiatives like I-Corps offer additional support, providing companies with resources and guidance to take their ideas from labs to real-world applications.

Moreover, spaces like HAX’s new Newark location and newLab at Brooklyn Navy Yard, provide startups with the infrastructure they need to iterate rapidly and make meaningful progress, positioning the region as a powerhouse of climate innovation.

NYC’s Educational Powerhouse Fuels Climate Tech Progress

No innovation hub is complete without a strong educational and research foundation. NYC’s numerous universities and institutions, located within a 30–40-mile radius, play a vital role in developing the talent and knowledge necessary for climate solutions. From NYU to Columbia and CUNY, these institutions foster a pipeline of skilled individuals and research partnerships that directly impact the success of climate tech startups.

The presence of such a robust educational ecosystem also facilitates knowledge transfer and workforce development. By connecting with industry leaders and tapping into research hubs, NYC’s climate tech ecosystem benefits from a continuous influx of fresh ideas, technical expertise, and entrepreneurial talent.

Collaboration and Ecosystem Cohesion: Key to NYC’s Climate Tech Success

In the deep tech and climate tech industries, collaboration is crucial. Cross-sector partnerships between robotics, AI, mobility, and other sectors enable a more cohesive ecosystem where diverse technologies can be integrated and optimized. For instance, robotics and automation can pair with mobility solutions to reduce urban traffic emissions or collaborate with AI to monitor and manage energy consumption across a city.

Policy changes, too, play a pivotal role in scaling climate solutions. Encouraging companies and their supply chains to stay local fosters an environment where rapid execution is possible, supported by an ecosystem of partners who are all working toward the same goals.

Final Thoughts: NYC as a Model for the Future of Climate Tech Innovation

As climate tech evolves from enabling technologies to real-world solutions, NYC stands out as an epicenter of innovation, collaboration, and investment. Its unique combination of governmental support, corporate interest, educational infrastructure, and talent pool has created an environment ripe for tackling climate challenges.

NYC is setting a powerful example of what it takes to build a sustainable future through robotics, AI, automation, and deep tech innovation. As the need for climate solutions becomes more pressing, cities around the world may look to NYC’s approach as a blueprint for integrating technology, sustainability, and community to make a lasting impact on the environment.

By harnessing its strengths and investing in a collaborative ecosystem, NYC is not only becoming a leader in deep tech but also paving the way for a future where urban innovation and climate responsibility go hand in hand.

Join the Conversation: if you’d like to join our Deep Tech Forum series to drive impactful discussions, foster cross-border partnerships, and build the future of manufacturing, let’s meet in NYC on Jan 22th for our next Deep Tech Forum event: https://lu.ma/ftlf7565?

Don’t Miss Our Events on the East and West Coast this Fall!

Join us for two exciting Deep Tech Forum events this fall, bringing together top innovators, investors, and industry leaders on both coasts of the U.S. Whether you’re interested in the latest in climate tech or exploring collaboration opportunities between CVCs and VCs for breakthrough innovations, our forums in Newark, NJ, and Silicon Valley, CA, have you covered.

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Deep Tech Forum – Fall 2024

• 9/24 NY Metro (Newark, NJ)
• 10/15 Silicon Valley (Santa Clara, CA)

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Deep Tech Forum NYC: Climate Tech with HAX/SOSV

• Date: September 24, 2024
• Location: Newark, NJ (In the New York Metro Area)

Dive deep into the rapidly evolving world of Climate Tech at our NYC forum. Hosted in collaboration with HAX/SOSV, one of the leading deep tech accelerators, this event is designed for startups, investors, corporate venture capitalists (CVCs), and government stakeholders who are passionate about sustainable technology and innovation.

What to Expect:

• Expert Panels and Keynotes: Learn from industry experts and thought leaders on the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in climate tech
• Startup Pitches and Demos: Discover the next big thing in climate innovation with live pitches and product demonstrations from emerging startups supported by HAX/SOSV.
• Networking Opportunities: Engage with like-minded professionals, investors, and corporate partners who are driving the future of sustainable technology.

Why Attend?

• Gain insights into the latest climate tech innovations and investment trends.
• Connect with key players in the deep tech and sustainability ecosystem.
• Explore potential partnerships, investments, and collaborations.

View Details and Request to join for NYC Event

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Deep Tech Forum Silicon Valley: CVC & VC Collaboration for Innovation

• Date: October 15, 2024
• Location: Santa Clara, CA

Explore the power of collaboration between Corporate Venture Capital (CVC) and Venture Capital (VC) firms at our Silicon Valley forum. Located at the heart of tech innovation, this event will bring together some of the most influential CVCs, VCs, startups, and industry leaders to discuss strategic partnerships and collaborative models for driving deep tech innovation.

What to Expect:

• High-Impact Panel Discussions: Hear from top CVC and VC leaders about their collaboration strategies, investment focus areas, and success stories in deep tech.
• Interactive Workshops: Participate in workshops designed to foster meaningful conversations and partnerships between investors and startups.
• Pitch Sessions and Networking: Meet cutting-edge startups and engage with potential partners and investors who are shaping the future of technology.

Why Attend?

• Learn how CVCs and VCs can collaborate effectively to accelerate innovation.
• Network with top-tier investors, corporate executives, and deep tech entrepreneurs.
• Discover new opportunities for funding, mentorship, and strategic partnerships.

View Details and Request to join for Silicon Valley Event

(Original post on Medium by Sabrina Sasaki from Monozukuri Ventures)

After Deep Tech Forum 2024 series in Toronto, Pittsburgh and NYC (winter edition), Spring was a good time to catch up with a few selected hubs in the East Coast to follow up with deep tech ecosystems. As a half-year review, this recap brings together what I’ve seen in in this first semester of 2024.

As a first stop in Boston, where we co-hosted our first ever Monozukuri Hub Meetup in the US with the support of JETRO NY (J-Startup), we were able to gather over 12 Japanese corporations for a networking session. I arrived in the city one week before our event to get a sense of the local ecosystem in the Spring.

As Spring kicked off in Boston a bit later than in Japan, I had the chance to enjoy sakuras (cherry blossom trees) from Kyoto (in late March) to Boston (in late April) — not necessarily the best experience for someone suffering with severe hay fever!

I landed in Boston straight from Japan, arriving when TechCrunch Early Stage took place. This type of industry broad event tends to attract generic investors with agnostic thesis, like in most hubs. But not in Boston!

• Early Stage Deep Tech Happy Hour: by AlleyCorp, Anzu Partners, Argon VC, Aurelia Foundry, Converge Ventures, Cybernetix Ventures, First Star Ventures, Glasswing Ventures, Hyperplane Ventures, and SkyRiver Ventures, a happy hour with deep tech founders, operators, and investors. It was one of the best networking events I’ve ever been to. Very curated specialized professionals with a vast expertise in the fields of robotics, AI, computer science, physics, chemistry and many engineering fields. Boston really has a best in class community, and most investors have been either founders or operators, with a different perspective on what it takes for a startup to succeed.

• HAX Deep Tech Boston: first ever HAX meetup in Boston was hosted at the Engine (MIT-related hub). HAX, a hardtech accelerator previously based out of Shenzhen, China is now positioned as the ‘startup development program in Newark, NJ from SOSV Fund to support hard tech founders working on health and climate startups’. It’s not a concidence that SOSV is interested in the Boston region, as many of the key verticals are related to the hub. IndieBio program is also specialized in biotech startups with offices in NYC and SF, and brought their team to Boston to meet students, engineers, scientists and climate leaders.

Robotics Summit Expo

As warm up for the Robotics Summit, Device Talks & Digital Transformation, we co-hosted Monozukuri Hub: JETRO/J-BRIDGE CONNECTS for Global Robotics Innovation in Boston focused on attendees in the Robotics, AI & Automation in Manufacturing!

Over 120 attendees, including over 12 Japanese corporations, joined our initiative supported by Cybernetix Ventures and Pittsburgh Robotics Network, both hubs relevant for the emerging technologies in the startup ecosystem.

Robotics Invest by Cybernetix Ventures

Robotics Invest 2024 was definitely one of the most relevant opportunities to meet the top investors, advisors, operators, customers and founders in the ecosystem. The two day event featured sessions on investment trends, AI’s impact on robotics, climate tech, and the robotics acquisition landscape.

Keynote speakers included famous local entrepreneur celebrities who attracted a global audience of fans and followers.

• Day one: Dean Kamen, serial entrepreneur, inventor and philantropist, invention of the Segway and iBOT, world-known products in the mobility and robotics space.

https://cdn.embedly.com/widgets/media.html?src=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fembed%2FaQykTmY-LJ4%3Ffeature%3Doembed&display_name=YouTube&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DaQykTmY-LJ4&image=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2FaQykTmY-LJ4%2Fhqdefault.jpg&key=a19fcc184b9711e1b4764040d3dc5c07&type=text%2Fhtml&schema=youtube

• Day two: Marc Raibert, Boston Dynamics founder who started as a professor of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at MIT and an associate professor of Computer Science and Robotics at Carnegie Mellon University. Not a coincidence that both schools are globally recognized as top institutions in the fields of robotics and automation as hubs for innovation!

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Roundtables on financing, scaling strategies, and spinning out companies from academia, as well as networking opportunities and 1:1 curated meetings. The event aims to provide insights into the future of robotics and foster innovation and collaboration in the industry.

As of today, the most relevant industry curated events I joined have been by far these ones in Boston.

Why do we focus on the East Coast/Great Lakes areas of North America?

Part of our role as an institutional VC specialized in early stage deep tech startup startups has been to help Japanese corporations create better strategies for their Open Innovation journey, with frameworks that might guide them on more strategic CVC investments towards concrete M&A plans.

Manufacturing, in that sense, is one the key industries that Japanese corporations could stand out in the new context between “slowbalisation” and deglobalization, when geopolitical concerns come up while the green transition kicks off.

And the recent agreement signed in April 2024 by President Biden during his visit to Japan marks a significant milestone in this strategic bilateral alliance between the US and Japan, particularly for the manufacturing sector, with a shared commitment to tech advancement, innovation, and global competitiveness related to deep tech in manufacturing, where physical products are built to allow AI and other added services.

But the reality is that with limited teams actively engaged in America (mainly in the West Coast) and with a vast territory to be covered from Coast to Coast, Japanese current resources haven’t been able to achieve their goals when it comes to working alongside startups. After meeting so many expats in the US representing their Japanese HQ, I came up with this conclusion from their concerns and questions which seem like they’re unaware of US local startup hubs potential for engagements in their own industry. Adding to that the Japanese yen’s historical depreciation, the costs for Japanese companies to maintain their business overseas became higher than their International budget allows them to do , adding a new layer of challenges to Japanese CVC offices operating in the US.

Industrial hubs have been historically concentrated in the East Coast/Midwest regions of the US, where Japanese corporations have limited access to startup hubs with a pace of advanced manufacturing innovations that have been hard to follow up with!

So Why Is Boston A Top Global Deep Tech Hub For Robotics, AI, And Automation In Manufacturing?

Among the top 5 US cities for startups, Boston has been a constant and relevant hub when it comes to deep tech early stage funding (pre-seed/seed), with Friends & Family, Angel Groups and other microfunds, as latest data shared by Carta’s Head of Insights Peter Walker.

Another report from Carta shows the growth of funding to hardtech startups with physical devices in the last 5 years, with Boston as a #3 key startup ecosystem in which many companies are building products related to the robotics industry!

• Top 2 in Energy and Biotech
• Top 3 in Hardware & Medical Devices (#3 in Healthtech)

Boston, a city celebrated for its rich history and academic excellence, has also emerged as a global leader in several cutting-edge industries including robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), and automation in key deep tech segments related to manufacturing. This transformation is underpinned by an unique ecosystem of innovation, academic institutions, and specialized hubs that support the transition of advanced research into real-world applications.

https://sabrinasasaki.medium.com/the-state-of-robotics-ai-av-startups-in-north-america-in-2022-cbfdd336ba18

A very unique set of ecosystem players in the deep tech space coming from everywhere in the US and even from other countries that like myself also think of Boston as a key place for the innovations of the future.

At the heart of Boston’s surge in advanced manufacturing technologies is of course its dense concentration of universities and research institutions, which its undeniable roots at MIT, Harvard, Tufts and Boston University, among others, that are not only feeding the industry with fresh talent but are also training pioneer leaders in cutting-edge research.

MIT’s Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL): at the forefront of robotics and AI research, driving developments that are directly applicable to manufacturing.

Sustainability and Automation in manufacturing isn’t just about robotics; it encompasses integrated systems that can autonomously monitor and control production processes. Boston’s tech companies are at the vanguard of creating such systems, enabling higher throughput with less waste and lower costs. Moreover, the focus on sustainable and green manufacturing processes, powered by automated solutions, is positioning Boston as a leader in responsible industrial practices.

Deep Tech Forum 2024 features three North American cities — Toronto (Canada); Pittsburgh (PA); and New York City (NYC)— known for their industrial backgrounds and emerging tech startup ecosystems beyond the SF/Bay Area hub. We’re now getting ready for the global Deep Tech Forum Kyoto, Japan on March 7th-8th!

Japanese corporations interested in collaborations with deep tech startups should pay closer attention to hubs where technologies clusters are thriving, beyond the usual ones in the West Coast/California, where their CVC offices are based.

Deep Tech Forum 2024: why do these three East Coast/Midwest hubs matter? And what did we learn during our Japanese delegation tour visiting Toronto, Pittsburgh and NYC?

Manufacturing: most of the US/Canada concentration is in the East Coast/Midwest/Great Lake areas, the region where DTF 2024 took place in January.

Open Innovation collaborations are possible when partners have strong resources, networks, and academic excellence aligned to diversity of talent that can understand potential frameworks for successful business alliances.

Monozukuri Ventures’s team in the US & Canada visits these hubs regularly to engage consistently with startup ecosystem partners – investors and industry professionals, in order to help nurture the Japanese manufacturing expertise in these segments.

2024 Topic is RAAI in Manufacturing — why investments in these regional hubs of deep tech startups matter?

• R is for Robotics. Robotics startups in the manufacturing segment are leveraging advanced technologies such as AI /ML (machine learning), computer vision, and collaborative robotics to enhance efficiency, precision, and flexibility in manufacturing processes. The disruptions caused by global events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, wars and other political instabilities have increased the focus on supply chain resilience. Robotics startups are working on solutions to optimize and automate supply chain processes to mitigate risks and enhance adaptability.
• A is for Automation. Current challenges in the manufacturing space require efficiency and less waste in terms of resources (time, human work, energy and materials). US & Canada face similar challenges as European countries and Japan when it comes to the shortage of labour and lack of smart processes that can save time and money for corporations. The main difference between North America and other developed countries is the continental scale and proximity to the largest industrial market — the US.
• AI is for Artificial Intelligence: Data from Carta shows that investment into AI companies tends to be more geographically concentrated. Specific applications to manufacturing and hardware devices have been developed in such hubs.
• New York and Pittsburgh: the only metro areas beyond San Francisco /Bay Area where shares of AI investment was larger than their share of investment overall. (Source: Carta)
• Toronto: AI godfathers selected for the ‘Nobel Prize of Computing’ — Geoff Hinton (UofT), Yann LeCun(NYU) and Yoshua Bengio (University of Montreal) are professors with extensive work in the US & Canada. Financial Times article here.

City 1: Toronto (Canada)

Toronto Waterloo Corridor: Between the cities of Toronto and Waterloo, the region has emerged as a powerhouse in North America driving innovation in robotics, automation, and AI within the manufacturing sector, thanks to its existing automotive cluster, connecting the area to the Detroit area of the US.

Monozukuri Ventures (Toronto): 1st Japanese early stage VC with office in Canada. Read about it: in Japanese (by Nob Seki) / in English.

Global Ranking: Toronto-Waterloo Corridor. (Source: Startup Genome.)

• Top 15 in Funding, Top 20 in Talent & Experience, Top 25 in Performance
• 15,000 tech companies, including 5,000+ startups, and more than 300,000 employees in high-tech industries.
• 40% of the Corridor’s residents are foreign-born like me— (non Canadians) (source: McKinsey report here).
• RIM (Research In Motion): the most known deep tech startup from this region. Recommended to watch the BlackBerry movie (2023).

• University of Toronto and the University of Waterloo: globally recognized for contributions in R&D leading to new discoveries and applications into traditional industries using science-based solutions.
• World’s largest co-operative education program (co-op): an integrated experiential work program where all students gain 2+ years of real world experience while earning an undergraduate degree.
• Diverse global talent pool contributes to the development of technologies with skilled professionals. The region attracts professionals from around the world with a diversity of backgrounds and mindsets, crucial factors for tackling complex challenges involving the commercialization of science-based solutions.
• Innovation Hubs: The MaRS Discovery District in Toronto and the Communitech Hub in Waterloo serve as innovation hubs, providing state-of-the-art facilities, mentorship programs, and resources for startups and entrepreneurs in the robotics and AI space. These hubs act as catalysts for turning research into real-world applications.
• Government Support and Investment: Canada recognized the strategic importance of the Toronto-Waterloo Region in the tech sector. Initiatives like the Next Generation Manufacturing Supercluster and funding support from various programs further fuel research and development activities in the region. Funding and incentives for research and development in robotics and automation contribute to creating an environment conducive to innovation and technological advancements.

A sample of Toronto’s RAAI in 2024:

• Schwartz Reisman Innovation Campus: a hub for multidisciplinary research, bringing together academia and industry partners. The new center under final construction is where both UTEST (University of Toronto Early-Stage Technology) and the Vector Institute AI have offices, collectively a powerhouse at the forefront of artificial intelligence (AI) and technology innovation.

Nestled within the University of Toronto, these organizations collaborate to advance AI research, nurture startups, and drive the development of transformative technologies. Together, they create an ecosystem that bridges academia and industry to propel Canada’s leadership in AI innovation.

MaRS Discovery District, located in the heart of Toronto, serves as a dynamic hub for innovation, research, and entrepreneurship. Known as the Urban Innovation Hub, MaRS brings together a diverse community of startups, researchers, investors, and industry partners to foster collaboration and drive meaningful advancements.

The hub is dedicated to accelerating the growth of ventures in the fields of deep tech, health, cleantech, finance, and more, making it a pivotal player in the Canadian innovation ecosystem.

University of Toronto (UofT): renowned institution with academic excellence, research, and innovation. It plays a pivotal role in fostering collaboration between academia and industry, driving advancements in various fields. World-class faculty and researchers leading groundbreaking studies.

• Collaboration with industry partners to bridge academic research and business
• Integration of technology, science, and business for comprehensive innovation.
• Over 12 accelerators within different areas, including UTEST

Vector Institute AI: an independent leading AI research institution within UofT ecosystem with a focus on deep learning and machine learning. Collaboration with academia, industry, and government to advance AI research. Training the next generation of AI experts through educational programs. Startup collaborations help to drive breakthroughs in AI research, with applications spanning various domains, including healthcare, finance, and manufacturing.

BDC (Bank of Development of Canada): #1 Deep Tech investor in Canada. (source: CBInsights Q4/2023 report). BDC’s Deep Tech Venture Fund is Canada’s largest VC fund ($200 million) dedicated to deep tech.

City 2: Pittsburgh (PA)

‘Pittsburgh is home to two world-class research universities — Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) and the University of Pittsburgh — as well as two other major research institutions and dozens of other post-secondary institutions. The ecosystem continues to be home to one of the greatest concentrations of research and tech talent in the U.S., and a community of purpose-driven builders, makers, and innovators has grown up around this nucleus.

The city gained fame as “Steel City” since the industrial revolution but suffered drastic economic decline and job losses during the 1980s. Now, it uses its heritage of industry, university expertise and a skilled workforce to build the footprint to become a hub of high tech, robotics, AI, health care and much more. (Source: Startup Genome)

Monozukuri Ventures US: early stage portfolio of companies from Pittsburgh (Arieca, ARIN Technologies, CleanRobotics, Digital Dream Labs, Edge Case Research, ESTAT Actuation, Hibersense) and Philadelphia, PA (Hava Health, Vertiq).

• Global Ranking: Pittsburgh (Source: Startup Genome.)
• Top 20 Emerging Ecosystem in Funding, Top 25 Emerging Ecosystem in Talent&Experience, Top 20 Emerging Ecosystem in Performance
• Sub-strenghts: Advanced Manufacturing & Robotics, Life Sciences, CleanTech
• Aurora Technologies: one of the local startups with global relevance. Read more here.

A sample of Pittsburgh’s RAAI in 2024:

CMUs Corporate Startup Lab (CSL): at the intersection of academia and industry, a catalyst for the transformation of cutting-edge technologies into successful commercial ventures through strategic business alliances. Established with the goal of bridging the gap between innovative research and real-world applications, CSL plays a pivotal role in fostering collaboration between the university’s research expertise and corporate partners. By nurturing a dynamic ecosystem that encourages the development of startup ventures, CSL serves as a launchpad for groundbreaking ideas to evolve into market-ready products and services.

The lab actively engages with industry leaders, fostering mutually beneficial partnerships that bring together academic insights and corporate resources. Through strategic alliances, CSL not only helps startups gain access to essential resources but also enables corporations to stay at the forefront of technological advancements.

Robotics Factory (Alpha Lab Gear, part of Innovation Works umbrella) serves as a pioneering hub for advancing robotics and automation technologies, aiming to propel innovative ideas from conception to market success. This facility is committed to nurturing startups in robotics, providing a supportive environment for entrepreneurs and researchers to translate their concepts into commercially viable solutions.

Pittsburgh’s growing reputation as a hub for cutting-edge technology, particularly in the field of robotics. The factory serves as a catalyst for innovation, promoting the development of robotic technologies that have the potential to reshape industries.

Pittsburgh Robotics Network serves as a collaborative platform that brings together various stakeholders in the robotics ecosystem. This includes academic institutions, research labs, startups, established companies, and investors. The primary goal is to foster a vibrant and interconnected community that accelerates the development, commercialization, and adoption of robotic technologies. This approach not only accelerates the growth of emerging robotics companies but also strengthens the overall ecosystem for technological advancement in Pittsburgh.

City 3: NYC (NY)

Monozukuri Ventures NY Office: early stage portfolio of NYC-metro area companies (Blast Radio, FlexTraPower, Proteus Motion, Sembient)

• Global Ranking: NYC
• Top 2 Global Ranking, Top 2 Agtech Ranking
• Sub-strenghts: AI, Big Data & Analytics, Life Sciences, CleanTech

A sample of NYC’s RAAI in 2024:

SOSV: Deep Tech for Human and Planetary Health, it’s ranked #4 most successful accelerator hub by CBInsights, it’s also investing at early stage (pre-seed/seed) via its accelerators:

• HAX is a well-known global leader hardtech accelerator with locations in NJ (next to NYC), and San Francisco. It’s part of SOSV, one of the top global investors that have consistently focused on hardtech/deep tech startups. Initially a hub out of Shenzhen, China, HAX has now moved its HQ to New Jersey, a region recognized for its industrial and logistics. This initiative aims to catalyze innovation in hardtech and create climate tech solutions by providing startups with the necessary resources and support to transform ideas into market-ready products.
• IndieBio: our event co-host, under the same SOSV umbrella, alongside HAX is focused on biotech solutions. Companies can take advantage of its resources. Locations in NYC and San Francisco.

NewLab is a collaborative deep tech workspace and innovation center located in the Brooklyn Navy Yard, providing a multidisciplinary environment for entrepreneurs, engineers, and inventors, particularly those working on deep tech projects. A hub for startups, offering a unique ecosystem that fosters collaboration, innovation, and the development of groundbreaking technologies. Workspaces equipped with cutting-edge facilities, laboratories, prototyping resources and warehouses. This collaborative environment is designed to support deep tech startups in various fields, including robotics, artificial intelligence, and advanced manufacturing.

• The strength of NewLab lies in its diverse community of members spanning different disciplines. Deep tech startups benefit from interactions with professionals from various industries, encouraging cross-pollination of ideas and expertise.
• Strategic Location: Situated in the Brooklyn Navy Yard, NewLab benefits from its proximity to New York City’s vibrant tech and innovation scene. This strategic location provides startups with access to a rich network of investors, mentors, and potential collaborators.

• Urban X by mini: tech accelerator program at NewLab created by MINI, a brand under the BMW Group. Urban-X is focused on supporting and scaling startups that are working on innovative solutions to address urban challenges: living, sustainability, and mobility.

January 2024 was definitely a busy time for hardtech startups — some at CES 2024 in Las Vegas and others we met at mHub and University of Chicago Deep Tech center — I also joined a Japanese delegation by JETRO! More to be shared later.

If you’d like to join us in Japan on March 7th & 8th: sign up for Deep Tech Forum Kyoto (free for all attendees)! See you during the early spring blossoming in the best city of the world (IHMO).

Attention all pioneering deep tech startups in Toronto, Pittsburgh and New York City! Seize your opportunity to dazzle on an international platform. The Deep Tech Forum warmly invites three innovative startups to join us in Kyoto, Japan—a city renowned for its rich cultural heritage—for a trailblazing event on March 7th and 8th, 2024. This extends beyond a mere showcase of innovation; it’s a golden chance to forge connections with investors and strategic partners in Japan, a nation where manufacturing beats at the very heart of its economy.

What’s in Store for You?

Prizes and Support

• 🥇 1st Prize: $1,000
• 🥈 2nd Prize: $500
• 🥉 3rd Prize: $300

These prizes are not just a token of appreciation but a substantial subsidy to cover your travel expenses to Kyoto.

How to Enroll?

Participating is as simple as 1, 2, 3:

1. Attend one of these three Deep Tech Forum Events: Toronto (Jan 15), Pittsburgh (Jan 17), or New York City (Jan 19). Sign up for the one nearest to you, choose a “startup” ticket and be a part of it.
2. Drop Your Business Card: Find the program enrollment box at the event and drop in your business card. It’s your ticket to potentially being one of the chosen startups. Don’t forget your business card with your company’s website on it!
3. Await the Vote: Applications will be shortlisted for audience votes. The winners will be chosen through a vote by the Japanese audience of Monozukuri Ventures’ eNewsletter. This adds an exciting layer of audience engagement to the selection process.

A Platform to Connect

The Kyoto event is not just a competition; it’s a hub for networking. Investors and strategic partners present at the event may request exclusive meetings with startups, offering a unique opportunity for one-on-one interactions. Plus, an open networking session is scheduled for March 8th, giving you even more chances to connect and collaborate.

As part of our commitment to fostering a vibrant community, we invite all deep tech startups to join our exclusive Slack channel: Monozukuri Community. This platform is a hub for you to connect, discuss, and stay updated with everything related to the Deep Tech Forum.

Why Kyoto?

Kyoto, known for its historical significance and cultural richness, offers the perfect backdrop for innovation and technology. Blending the old with the new, it symbolizes the journey of startups – transforming traditional ideas into futuristic solutions.

Who Can Participate?

This invitation extends to all deep tech startups! Whether you’re in the early stages or scaling up, we welcome you to be part of this dynamic event. It’s your chance to showcase your innovative solutions, gain international exposure, and forge meaningful connections.

Your Next Steps

• Mark Your Calendar: March 7th and 8th, 2024, in Kyoto. Tentative Agenda.
• Plan Your Participation: Choose one of the preliminary events in Toronto, Pittsburgh, or New York City.
• Get Ready to Network: Prepare to engage with global investors and partners on our Slack Channel.

Seize this Opportunity!

This is more than just a competition; it’s a stepping stone to global recognition and valuable partnerships. Don’t miss out on the chance to be a part of the Deep Tech Forum in Kyoto. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!

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