In collaboration with leading venture capital firms, OIST Innovation offers startups and entrepreneurial researchers or students the opportunity to connect directly with venture capitalists for one-on-one mentoring and discussion.
Each round begins with an open seminar-style introduction, where participants can learn about the VC firm's investment focus and characteristics. This is followed by private, closed-door mentoring sessions between startups/researchers/students and the VC representatives.

The featured VC for this round is D4V (Design for Ventures)

In collaboration with leading venture capital firms, OIST Innovation offers startups and entrepreneurial researchers or students the opportunity to connect directly with venture capitalists for one-on-one mentoring and discussion.
Each round begins with an open seminar-style introduction, where participants can learn about the VC firm's investment focus and characteristics. This is followed by private, closed-door mentoring sessions between startups/researchers/students and the VC representatives.

The featured VC for this round is Karry Fund (Karry Impact & Innovation Fund)

Registration is required.
If the number of applicants exceeds the available slots, OIST Innovation will select participants based on the information provided in the registration form and the strategic fit with the VC.

As part of Researcher Appreciation Month, join us for a special Career Talk featuring three inspiring speakers who will share their diverse professional journeys. Hear from Dr. Shunichi Kasahara (Sony & OIST), Dr. Shivani Sathish (Atierra founder and OIST alumna), and Dr. Paola Butler-Zanetti (OIST Innovation) as they reflect on paths spanning academia, startups, and industry. The session will include short presentations, an interactive panel Q&A, and plenty of time for informal discussion.

As part of Researcher Appreciation Month, join us for a special event on AI-based entrepreneurial projects. Speakers include Dr. Shunichi Kasahara (Sony & OIST) on Cybernetic Humanity, Andrew Bruhacs (OIST) on his AI tool connecting industry with researchers, and Melika Sadeghi Tabrizi (POC project) on an Edge AI system detecting invasive frog species. The session will showcase how AI is being applied across fields from human–computer integration to biodiversity protection.

OIST Innovation is thrilled to host Dr. Simson Garfinkel, one of the most influential voices in computing, for an exclusive 1-hour Fireside Chat, where we will be discussing the frictions between Computing and Society.

OIST Innovation opens its doors to the OIST community every Friday from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Have you ever wondered if your discoveries could lead to a patent or startup? Curious about what happens at OIST Innovation? Have an idea for a product or service? Want to apply for the Proof of Concept (POC) Program? We welcome your ideas and questions!

During Mr. Yanagino’s visit—President and attorney at YANAGINO IP, P.C.—we’re excited to offer free mentoring sessions for startups!
If you’re looking for advice on intellectual property or just want to chat about Japan’s IP system—especially patents and trademarks—feel free to book a slot! (Registration is required)

OIST Innovation opens its doors to the OIST community every Friday from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Have you ever wondered if your discoveries could lead to a patent or startup? Curious about what happens at OIST Innovation? Have an idea for a product or service? Want to apply for Round 14 of the Proof of Concept (POC) Program? We welcome your ideas and questions!

Come out to Open Hours this Friday the 19th from 14:00–15:00 to meet Josh Green, the instructor for the upcoming Innovator's Toolbox program. This will be a great opportunity to get to meet Josh and discuss your research area. Enjoy snacks and drinks while you learn how this program will help you better understand how to get your work out into the world and make an impact! 

OIST Innovation opens its doors to the OIST community every Friday from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.