As global demand grows to translate scientific discovery into real-world applications, the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) has opened applications for the 2027–2028 cohort of its flagship Innovation Accelerator. The 10-month program supports entrepreneurial researchers developing deep technologies with strong potential for commercialization in the Japanese market.
Up to four research-driven ventures will be selected to participate in the fully immersive residency, each receiving up to ¥10 million in project funding. The program is designed to bridge the gap between laboratory research and market deployment by combining structured research and development support with hands-on market validation and investment worthiness preparation. Applications close on June 28, 2026, with finalist selection scheduled for January 2027 ahead of the cohort start in June 2027.
