TechGALA Japan Program 2026
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Quick Answer
An international acceleration and market-access program by India Accelerator and 01Booster Inc., helping Indian deeptech startups expand into the Japanese market with travel support and business matching.
- Funding amount
- Varies
- Funding type
- Competition
- Provider
- India Accelerator
- Application deadline
- Closed
- Location
- International
Results & next round
Applications for this round closed on 23 August 2026. The organiser has not published a selection list that we can verify yet.
Selections for this programme are announced by India Accelerator. Official links are listed under Sources below.
We update this page when results are published, and when the next round opens.
About this competition
The TechGALA Japan Program 2026, a collaboration between India Accelerator and 01Booster Inc., Japan, is an international startup acceleration and market-access initiative. This program aims to identify India's most innovative startups and integrate them into Japan's advanced innovation ecosystem. India Accelerator leads a nationwide selection process, which culminates in an exclusive pitch showcase in Bengaluru. Over 60 high-potential startups across various deep-tech and innovation sectors are evaluated. The top 5 startups from this selection will earn the opportunity to represent India at TechGALA Japan 2026, held from 15-17 December 2026 in Nagoya, Japan. Participants will receive travel support and engage in a custom-designed market-entry program. This specialized support facilitates connections with Japanese corporations, investors, innovation hubs, and other key ecosystem partners. The overarching goal of the program is to empower Indian startups to forge global partnerships, validate their products in international markets, explore business collaborations, and accelerate their expansion into Japan and beyond. It serves as a vital bridge for Indian innovators aiming for cross-border growth and engagement within a leading global tech landscape.
Eligibility
See if you're eligible
Full eligibility criteria — entity type, stage, sector, founder profile and registration requirements — plus your fit for this program. Sign up to view.
Organizers
India Accelerator is a multi-stage, fund-led startup accelerator founded in 2017 and headquartered in Gurugram, Haryana. Recognized by Startup India as the Best Accelerator of the Country, India Accelerator provides startups with coworking spaces, mentorship, investor access,…
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What You Get
While not a cash grant, selected startups receive significant non-monetary and in-kind support. The top 5 startups will benefit from travel support to Nagoya, Japan, to participate in TechGALA Japan 2026. This includes a tailored Japan market-entry program, providing direct access to Japanese corporates, investors, and innovation leaders. Startups will engage in business matchmaking, partnership opportunities, an international startup showcase, and global networking with ecosystem leaders, significantly increasing their visibility among potential investors and strategic partners for international expansion.
- Duration
- 4 months
- Cohort size
- 5 startups
- Bootstrap friendly
- Yes
Timelines & Process
Selection Process
India Accelerator will conduct a nationwide startup selection process. More than 60 high-potential startups will be evaluated across multiple deep-tech and innovation sectors. This will be followed by an exclusive pitch showcase in Bengaluru, where around 10 shortlisted startups will present. The Top 5 performing startups from this pitch event will be selected to represent India at TechGALA Japan 2026.
Application Process
- 1
Apply Online
Submit your startup and business details through the application form.
You - 2
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How to apply
Four steps from draft to disbursement — one action each.
- 1
See the questions before you start
Download every question this programme's application form asks, so you can prepare your answers offline before opening the portal.
- 2
Submit on the official portal
Use the official application link and verify all details before final submission.
- 3
Follow up
Reach out 5–7 days after submitting to confirm receipt and ask about the review timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the TechGALA Japan Program 2026?
TechGALA Japan Program 2026 is an international startup acceleration and market-entry programme organised by India Accelerator and 01Booster Inc. to help Indian startups expand into Japan.
Who can apply for the TechGALA Japan Program?
Innovative Indian startups working in Mobility, Sustainability, Materials, Life Sciences, AI, Robotics, DeepTech, Defence Technologies and related sectors.
How many startups will be selected?
More than 60 startups will participate in the national evaluation process. Around 10 are shortlisted to pitch live in Bengaluru, and the Top 5 startups will represent India at TechGALA Japan 2026.
What are the benefits for selected startups?
Selected startups receive travel support, access to Japan's innovation ecosystem, investor connects, corporate partnerships, market-entry assistance and international networking opportunities.
Where will TechGALA Japan 2026 take place?
The final event will be held in Nagoya, Japan, from 15-17 December 2026 in Nagoya, Japan.
Is there any funding under this programme?
The programme primarily offers international exposure, travel support, business development opportunities and market-entry assistance. Direct funding has not been announced.
Which sectors are eligible?
Mobility, Sustainable Environment, Material Science, Life Sciences, Wellbeing, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, DeepTech, Advanced Technologies and Dual-use/Defence Technologies.
Who is organising the India selection process?
India Accelerator is the official India partner and is conducting the nationwide startup selection programme in partnership with Japan's 01Booster Inc.
Sources
Data on this page is compiled from official program and provider references.
