Discovering Opportunities: JETRO's Global Startup Acceleration in 2024
105 Startups Join JETRO’s Global Startup Acceleration Program
The Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) has welcomed 105 startups to its 2024 Global Startup Acceleration Program (GSAP). Launched in 2020 to help Japanese startups expand overseas, GSAP pairs founders with seasoned mentors, practical courses, and a global network. With this new cohort, the number of startups that have taken part now exceeds 500—evidence of steady momentum and an appetite for going global.
Built with Leading Accelerator Partners
GSAP is powered by JETRO’s collaborations with internationally respected accelerators—organizations known for coaching early-stage teams into globally competitive companies. Each participating startup is placed into one of six categories aligned to its industry and stage, then matched with a course designed to meet its specific needs, from commercialization to deep tech exploration.
New Partnerships and Courses in 2024
This year, JETRO is expanding its network through a new partnership with StartX, an accelerator that supports Stanford students and alumni with mentorship and community resources. JETRO is also teaming up with the Industry 4.0 Accelerator from Michigan and Ensanté from Silicon Valley. Together, these partners will help deliver four new courses tailored to current market demands.
Courses Launching in 2024
The 2024 lineup adds the following tracks:
- B2B Commercial Traction Course – For companies ready to secure concrete wins in the U.S. market, designed and delivered by the team at AlchemistX.
- AI/Sustainability Course – Combining work at the intersection of artificial intelligence and sustainability, facilitated by StartX.
- BioTech/MedTech Course – Hosted at the BakarLabs incubator at UC Berkeley for biotechnology and medical technologies, led by Ensanté.
- Manufacturing Tech Course – Centered on advanced manufacturing technologies, guided by the Industry 4.0 Accelerator.
GSAP will also continue two core offerings: the B2B Market Discovery Course, which helps teams validate markets and sharpen go-to-market plans, and the Deep Tech Course, which supports technologies with complex R&D and long development cycles.
Hybrid Program Running Through March 2025
GSAP uses a hybrid format—online and on-site—through March 2025, giving founders both flexibility and real-world exposure. Participants receive strategy lectures, hands-on boot camps, curated meetings for potential partnerships, and personalized mentoring. Select startups will also get the opportunity to showcase at international exhibitions, opening doors to global investors and partners while building credibility in new markets.
About JETRO
JETRO connects Japan and the world. Since 1958, it has supported Japanese companies as they expand abroad and helped foreign companies enter Japan. With over 70 offices worldwide, including multiple locations in the USA, JETRO provides on-the-ground insights, introductions, and support that help founders navigate cross-border business.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Global Startup Acceleration Program?
GSAP is JETRO’s acceleration program, launched in 2020 to help Japanese startups expand internationally. It offers mentorship, targeted courses run with leading accelerators, and structured activities that prepare teams for global customers, partners, and investors.
How many startups are participating in the 2024 cohort?
In 2024, 105 startups joined the cohort. With this intake, the cumulative number of GSAP participants has surpassed 500 since the program began.
What types of courses does GSAP offer?
GSAP’s 2024 courses include B2B Commercial Traction (AlchemistX), AI/Sustainability (StartX), BioTech/MedTech at the BakarLabs incubator at UC Berkeley (led by Ensanté), and Manufacturing Tech (Industry 4.0 Accelerator). The program is also continuing the B2B Market Discovery and Deep Tech courses. Startups are placed based on industry focus and development stage.
Is there a cost to participate in GSAP?
No. Participation in the Global Startup Acceleration Program is free for selected startups.
What benefits do startups receive from joining GSAP?
Selected teams gain access to expert mentorship, strategy sessions, interactive boot camps, curated meetings for potential partnerships, and personalized guidance. The hybrid format runs through March 2025, and some startups may present at overseas exhibitions. Participants also benefit from JETRO’s global footprint, with over 70 offices supporting cross-border business activity.
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