E-DISC Innovate Bridge Cohort 2 | 2026
Building on the success of its inaugural edition last year, the E-DISC Innovate Bridge returns to continue supporting ASEAN & Indian startups in establishing partnerships with Japanese companies. Through its Digital Innovation and Sustainable Economy Centre (E-DISC), ERIA supports selected startups in exhibiting their products and services at SusHi Tech Tokyo – one of Asia’s largest startup events – while actively fostering an environment where these startups can achieve meaningful business outcomes. As in the previous cohort, ERIA will connect the selected startups with key industry players, investors, and potential collaborators both within ASEAN countries and in Japan.
To maximise impact, ERIA will arrange a series of targeted, high-impact meetings between startups and key stakeholders. In addition to the exhibition, ERIA will organise supplementary events such as workshops and networking sessions. These provide startups with deeper insights into the Japanese market, as well as opportunities to refine their business models, strengthen their pitches, and secure partnerships. Participation in these activities can further enhance startups’ visibility and credibility in the tech ecosystem.
Through these comprehensive support mechanisms, ERIA not only boosts the exposure of ASEAN startups at SusHi Tech Tokyo 2026 but also ensures they are well-positioned to create lasting and impactful business connections, driving future growth and innovation in the region.
Programme Overview
1. Participation in SusHi Tech Tokyo 2026
ERIA offers ASEAN & Indian startups the opportunity to participate in SusHi Tech Tokyo 2026, a leading platform for showcasing cutting-edge technologies and innovations. Startups will exhibit their products and services to a global audience, including industry leaders, investors, and potential business partners. Through this platform, startups can gain valuable exposure, network with key players in the tech ecosystem, and explore potential collaborations. ERIA’s support helps ensure that startups are positioned for success, facilitating lasting connections and expansion opportunities within the ASEAN region, India, and Japan.
To learn more about SusHi Tech Tokyo 2026, visit: https://sushitech-startup.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/en/
2. Targeted meetings with potential partners/startup ecosystem players
These meetings are designed to connect startups with key industry players, investors, and potential collaborators, offering insights into market trends, investment opportunities, and business strategies. Tailored to each startup’s needs, the sessions enable targeted discussions that may lead to partnerships, joint ventures, or funding opportunities.
3. A series of kick-off & insight-oriented meetings
Ahead of the market validation trip to Tokyo & Osaka, Japan, startups will involve in a series of kick-off & insight-oriented meetings to better prepare for the personalised meetings and engagement with relevant stakeholders.
Programme Format
- Online: Pre-trip kick-off meeting & insight-oriented workshop
- Offline: Participation in SusHi Tech Tokyo 2026, site visits, and a market validation trip in Tokyo and Osaka, Japan.
What Startups Will Receive
- Financial Support: ERIA provides financial aid to all selected startups. Each company, regardless of its country of origin or the number of participants, will receive a standard amount of US$2,500.
- Meetings & Partnerships: In collaboration with JETRO, ERIA will assist startups in arranging meetings with potential partners or stakeholders in the startup ecosystem, tailored to the startups' primary objectives.
- Press Releases: ERIA will support startups in media publications and press releases related to the programme, aiming to enhance the startups' branding and exposure both before and after the programme.
Qualifications of Participating Startups
To participate in E-DISC Innovate Bridge, startups must meet the following criteria:
- Corporate Registration: Startups must be registered corporations with headquarters in any of the ASEAN 11 countries and/or India and actively operating in at least one of these countries.
- Market-Ready Products: Startups must offer products or services that are already commercialised in at least one market.
- Business Plan for Japan Collaboration: Startups must present a detailed plan for collaboration with Japanese companies at SusHi Tech, including available resources to execute this plan.
- English Proficiency: Startups must have English-speaking staff available to manage the booth and handle negotiations throughout the event.
- ERIA Co-operation: Startups are expected to co-operate with ERIA on business improvement surveys and related research activities.
- Investment & Acceleration Programme Record: Startups with prior investment from venture capital and past participation in acceleration programmes are preferred.
Eligible Startup Sectors
ERIA prioritises technology-driven 'Impact Tech' startups that address social or environmental challenges through technical innovation (which could include, but are not limited to, digital platforms, data analytics, clean technologies, AI, biotechnology, and more) across diverse sectors such as:
- Greentech & Circular Economy (clean energy, waste management)
- Healthtech & Medtech (digital health, medical devices)
- Edtech (digital learning platforms, skills training)
- Agritech & Foodtech (sustainable farming, innovation)
- Fintech for Inclusion (sinancial access for underserved populations)
How to Apply
Click the Register Now button and fill out the form with your details by Tuesday, 20 January 2026: