©2025
FORGE*
Build the future of hardware in Tokyo. Scale it to the world — for founders with ambition.
Build the future of hardware in Tokyo. Scale it to the world — for founders with ambition.
Who we are
Accelerate Your Hardware Startup with Japan’s Precision and Power
What is Forge ?
Forge is a global hardware accelerator based in Tokyo, created for ambitious startups building next-generation products in robotics, mobility, and deep tech. We connect founders to Japan’s world-class manufacturing partners, hands-on prototyping support, market insights, and investor networks — all with zero program fees and no equity taken. Whether you're refining a prototype or entering the Japanese market, Forge helps you move faster, smarter, and farther.
Why join FORGE ?
©2025
Why Join Forge
Forge isn’t just an accelerator — it’s your launchpad into Japan’s world-class tech and manufacturing ecosystem. We give hardware startups the tools, partners, and support they need to build faster, go to market smarter, and scale globally.
01
Build Smarter, Faster
cool
Leverage Japan’s advanced prototyping capabilities with expert partners, access up to 40% discounts, and optimize your product for one of the world’s most demanding markets.
02
Enter the Market with Confidence
From market research and localization to business setup and legal support, Forge guides you step-by-step to make a strong entry into Japan — and beyond.
03
Connect with Investors and Ecosystem Players
Get matched with VCs, corporate partners, and pilot opportunities (PoCs) in cutting-edge fields like robotics, mobility, and drones.
How Forge Works
©2025
How Forge Works
Forge is a two-stage program designed to grow with you — from first prototype to full market entry.
Growth Track
Growth Track
For early-stage startups building and refining prototypes.
We help you design, build, and iterate your product to match the expectations of the Japanese market — and prepare you for scale.
What’s included
Expert-led mentoring and masterclasses
Hands-on prototyping with top-tier partners
Market research + investor and partner matching
Demo Day
Visa support
Leap Track
Leap Track
For startups ready to launch in Japan.
If you’ve completed the Growth Track (or reached a similar stage), Leap gives you the tools and guidance to go to market.
What’s included
Market entry strategy + localization
Legal + business setup support
PR, marketing, and local sales guidance
Project management
Pilots, PoCs, and investor access
Visa support
For startups
©2025
What
You’ll Get
Joining Forge means more than mentorship — it’s hands-on, real-world support designed to move your startup forward.
Built for Global Hardware Startups
Built for Global Hardware Startups
Designed for Japan, Ready for the World
Designed for Japan, Ready for the World
🛠️ Prototyping Support
Refine your hardware with access to Japan’s advanced design, mechanical, and control systems — including CAD, 3D modeling, and fabrication.
🛠️ Prototyping Support
Refine your hardware with access to Japan’s advanced design, mechanical, and control systems — including CAD, 3D modeling, and fabrication.
🧠 Masterclasses & Mentorship
Learn from seasoned founders, domain experts, and Japan-market veterans. Weekly sessions cover everything from local business culture to scaling strategy.
🧠 Masterclasses & Mentorship
Learn from seasoned founders, domain experts, and Japan-market veterans. Weekly sessions cover everything from local business culture to scaling strategy.
🔍 Market Research
Get tailored insights into Japan’s market dynamics, user behavior, and competitor landscape — helping you build smarter, faster.
🔍 Market Research
Get tailored insights into Japan’s market dynamics, user behavior, and competitor landscape — helping you build smarter, faster.
🤝 Investor & Partner Matching
We connect you with the right people — VCs, corporates, and partners interested in your tech and ready to collaborate.
🤝 Investor & Partner Matching
We connect you with the right people — VCs, corporates, and partners interested in your tech and ready to collaborate.
📍 Tokyo Workspace
Access creative coworking and fabrication spaces in central Tokyo — perfect for meetings, building, or just getting things done.
📍 Tokyo Workspace
Access creative coworking and fabrication spaces in central Tokyo — perfect for meetings, building, or just getting things done.
🌐 PoC Opportunities
Pilot your product in real-world environments with support from our testbed partners in mobility, robotics, drones, and more.
🌐 PoC Opportunities
Pilot your product in real-world environments with support from our testbed partners in mobility, robotics, drones, and more.
who we're looking for
©2025
Teams
Who It’s For
Forge is built for ambitious hardware startups looking to scale — especially those ready to tap into Japan’s deep tech and manufacturing power. You're a great fit if:
You’ve Got a Prototype
You have a basic prototype or MVP and want to improve it for production or PoC.
Japan Is on Your Roadmap
You’re exploring Japan as a key market — or a launchpad into Asia and beyond.
You’re Building Real Tech
Your product involves hardware, robotics, mobility, or smart systems — and needs real-world testing.
You Want More Than Mentorship
You’re looking for prototyping, legal setup, market strategy, and real connections — not just advice.
You’re Ready to Engage
You’re excited to work closely with mentors, iterate fast, and make the most of a hands-on program.
When
©2025
Program Timeline
Forge is designed to move fast — and move you forward. Here's what to expect:
Applications Open
May 2025
May 2025
Submit your startup for review. No equity, no fees — just bring your vision.
Screening & Interviews
June 2025
June 2025
We select high-potential startups through document reviews, interviews, and prototype evaluations with our manufacturing partners.
Growth Track Begins
July – November 2025
July – November 2025
Build, refine, and validate your product. Access prototyping, mentorship, and market entry support — ending with a Demo Day in Tokyo.
Leap Track Launches
January 2026
January 2026
For selected startups ready to go to market. We support business setup, localization, PR, and PoCs with Japanese partners.
lets Go!
©2025
lets Go!
©2025
Ready to Build in Japan?
Apply Early. Build Smart. Go Global.
If you’re building bold hardware and ready to scale, Forge gives you the tools, connections, and support to make it happen — in Japan and beyond. Applications open May 2025. Spots are limited.
FAQ
01
Is it really free to join?
02
Do I need to be based in Japan to apply?
03
What kind of startups are you looking for?
04
What sectors are a good fit?
05
Can I join the Leap Track directly?
06
Do you provide housing or visas?
07
Can I bring my co-founder or team members?
08
Is the program conducted in English?
Let's Work Together
©2025
Contact Now
Contact Us!
Got questions about Forge or the program fit? Drop us a message — we’re happy to connect and share more.
©2025
FORGE*
Build the future of hardware in Tokyo. Scale it to the world — for founders with ambition.
Who we are
Accelerate Your Hardware Startup with Japan’s Precision and Power
What is Forge ?
Forge is a global hardware accelerator based in Tokyo, created for ambitious startups building next-generation products in robotics, mobility, and deep tech. We connect founders to Japan’s world-class manufacturing partners, hands-on prototyping support, market insights, and investor networks — all with zero program fees and no equity taken. Whether you're refining a prototype or entering the Japanese market, Forge helps you move faster, smarter, and farther.
Why join FORGE ?
©2025
Why Join Forge
Forge isn’t just an accelerator — it’s your launchpad into Japan’s world-class tech and manufacturing ecosystem. We give hardware startups the tools, partners, and support they need to build faster, go to market smarter, and scale globally.
01
Build Smarter, Faster
Leverage Japan’s advanced prototyping capabilities with expert partners, access up to 40% discounts, and optimize your product for one of the world’s most demanding markets.
02
Enter the Market with Confidence
From market research and localization to business setup and legal support, Forge guides you step-by-step to make a strong entry into Japan — and beyond.
03
Connect with Investors and Ecosystem Players
Get matched with VCs, corporate partners, and pilot opportunities (PoCs) in cutting-edge fields like robotics, mobility, and drones.
How Forge Works
Forge is a two-stage program designed to grow with you — from first prototype to full market entry.
Growth Track
Growth Track
For early-stage startups building and refining prototypes.
MOST PICK
We help you design, build, and iterate your product to match the expectations of the Japanese market — and prepare you for scale.
What’s included
Expert-led mentoring and masterclasses
Hands-on prototyping with top-tier partners
Market research + investor and partner matching
Demo Day
Visa support
Leap Track
Leap Track
For startups ready to launch in Japan.
If you’ve completed the Growth Track (or reached a similar stage), Leap gives you the tools and guidance to go to market.
What’s included
Market entry strategy + localization
Legal + business setup support
PR, marketing, and local sales guidance
Project management
Pilots, PoCs, and investor access
Visa support
For startups
©2025
What
You’ll Get
Joining Forge means more than mentorship — it’s hands-on, real-world support designed to move your startup forward.
Built for Global Hardware Startups
Designed for Japan, Ready for the World
🛠️ Prototyping Support
Refine your hardware with access to Japan’s advanced design, mechanical, and control systems — including CAD, 3D modeling, and fabrication.
🧠 Masterclasses & Mentorship
Learn from seasoned founders, domain experts, and Japan-market veterans. Weekly sessions cover everything from local business culture to scaling strategy.
🔍 Market Research
Get tailored insights into Japan’s market dynamics, user behavior, and competitor landscape — helping you build smarter, faster.
🤝 Investor & Partner Matching
We connect you with the right people — VCs, corporates, and partners interested in your tech and ready to collaborate.
📍 Tokyo Workspace
Access creative coworking and fabrication spaces in central Tokyo — perfect for meetings, building, or just getting things done.
🌐 PoC Opportunities
Pilot your product in real-world environments with support from our testbed partners in mobility, robotics, drones, and more.
who we're looking for
©2025
Teams
Who It’s For
Forge is built for ambitious hardware startups looking to scale — especially those ready to tap into Japan’s deep tech and manufacturing power. You're a great fit if:
You’ve Got a Prototype
You have a basic prototype or MVP and want to improve it for production or PoC.
Japan Is on Your Roadmap
You’re exploring Japan as a key market — or a launchpad into Asia and beyond.
You’re Building Real Tech
Your product involves hardware, robotics, mobility, or smart systems — and needs real-world testing.
You Want More Than Mentorship
You’re looking for prototyping, legal setup, market strategy, and real connections — not just advice.
You’re Ready to Engage
You’re excited to work closely with mentors, iterate fast, and make the most of a hands-on program.
When
©2025
Program Timeline
Forge is designed to move fast — and move you forward. Here's what to expect:
Applications Open
May 2025
May 2025
Submit your startup for review. No equity, no fees — just bring your vision.
Screening & Interviews
June 2025
June 2025
We select high-potential startups through document reviews, interviews, and prototype evaluations with our manufacturing partners.
Growth Track Begins
July – November 2025
July – November 2025
Build, refine, and validate your product. Access prototyping, mentorship, and market entry support — ending with a Demo Day in Tokyo.
Leap Track Launches
January 2026
January 2026
For selected startups ready to go to market. We support business setup, localization, PR, and PoCs with Japanese partners.
lets Go!
©2025
Ready to Build in Japan?
Apply Early. Build Smart. Go Global.
If you’re building bold hardware and ready to scale, Forge gives you the tools, connections, and support to make it happen — in Japan and beyond. Applications open May 2025. Spots are limited.
FAQ
Is it really free to join?
Do I need to be based in Japan to apply?
What kind of startups are you looking for?
What sectors are a good fit?
Can I join the Leap Track directly?
Do you provide housing or visas?
Can I bring my co-founder or team members?
Is the program conducted in English?
Let's Work Together
©2025
Contact Now
Contact Us!
Got questions about Forge or the program fit? Drop us a message — we’re happy to connect and share more.
©2025
FORGE*
Build the future of hardware in Tokyo. Scale it to the world — for founders with ambition.
Who we are
Accelerate Your Hardware Startup with Japan’s Precision and Power
What is Forge ?
Forge is a global hardware accelerator based in Tokyo, created for ambitious startups building next-generation products in robotics, mobility, and deep tech. We connect founders to Japan’s world-class manufacturing partners, hands-on prototyping support, market insights, and investor networks — all with zero program fees and no equity taken. Whether you're refining a prototype or entering the Japanese market, Forge helps you move faster, smarter, and farther.
Why join FORGE ?
©2025
Why Join Forge
Forge isn’t just an accelerator — it’s your launchpad into Japan’s world-class tech and manufacturing ecosystem. We give hardware startups the tools, partners, and support they need to build faster, go to market smarter, and scale globally.
01
Build Smarter, Faster
cool
Leverage Japan’s advanced prototyping capabilities with expert partners, access up to 40% discounts, and optimize your product for one of the world’s most demanding markets.
02
Enter the Market with Confidence
From market research and localization to business setup and legal support, Forge guides you step-by-step to make a strong entry into Japan — and beyond.
03
Connect with Investors and Ecosystem Players
Get matched with VCs, corporate partners, and pilot opportunities (PoCs) in cutting-edge fields like robotics, mobility, and drones.
How Forge Works
©2025
How Forge Works
Forge is a two-stage program designed to grow with you — from first prototype to full market entry.
Growth Track
Growth Track
For early-stage startups building and refining prototypes.
We help you design, build, and iterate your product to match the expectations of the Japanese market — and prepare you for scale.
What’s included
Expert-led mentoring and masterclasses
Hands-on prototyping with top-tier partners
Market research + investor and partner matching
Demo Day
Visa support
Leap Track
Leap Track
For startups ready to launch in Japan.
If you’ve completed the Growth Track (or reached a similar stage), Leap gives you the tools and guidance to go to market.
What’s included
Market entry strategy + localization
Legal + business setup support
PR, marketing, and local sales guidance
Project management
Pilots, PoCs, and investor access
Visa support
For startups
©2025
Pro Services®
Joining Forge means more than mentorship — it’s hands-on, real-world support designed to move your startup forward.
Built for Global Hardware Startups
Designed for Japan, Ready for the World
🛠️ Prototyping Support
Refine your hardware with access to Japan’s advanced design, mechanical, and control systems — including CAD, 3D modeling, and fabrication.
🧠 Masterclasses & Mentorship
Learn from seasoned founders, domain experts, and Japan-market veterans. Weekly sessions cover everything from local business culture to scaling strategy.
🔍 Market Research
Get tailored insights into Japan’s market dynamics, user behavior, and competitor landscape — helping you build smarter, faster.
🤝 Investor & Partner Matching
We connect you with the right people — VCs, corporates, and partners interested in your tech and ready to collaborate.
📍 Tokyo Workspace
Access creative coworking and fabrication spaces in central Tokyo — perfect for meetings, building, or just getting things done.
🌐 PoC Opportunities
Pilot your product in real-world environments with support from our testbed partners in mobility, robotics, drones, and more.
who we're looking for
©2025
Teams
Who It’s For
Forge is built for ambitious hardware startups looking to scale — especially those ready to tap into Japan’s deep tech and manufacturing power. You're a great fit if:
You’ve Got a Prototype
You have a basic prototype or MVP and want to improve it for production or PoC.
Japan Is on Your Roadmap
You’re exploring Japan as a key market — or a launchpad into Asia and beyond.
You’re Building Real Tech
Your product involves hardware, robotics, mobility, or smart systems — and needs real-world testing.
You Want More Than Mentorship
You’re looking for prototyping, legal setup, market strategy, and real connections — not just advice.
You’re Ready to Engage
You’re excited to work closely with mentors, iterate fast, and make the most of a hands-on program.
When
©2025
Pro Services®
Forge is designed to move fast — and move you forward. Here's what to expect:
Applications Open
May 2025
May 2025
Submit your startup for review. No equity, no fees — just bring your vision.
Screening & Interviews
June 2025
June 2025
We select high-potential startups through document reviews, interviews, and prototype evaluations with our manufacturing partners.
Growth Track Begins
July – November 2025
July – November 2025
Build, refine, and validate your product. Access prototyping, mentorship, and market entry support — ending with a Demo Day in Tokyo.
Leap Track Launches
January 2026
January 2026
For selected startups ready to go to market. We support business setup, localization, PR, and PoCs with Japanese partners.
lets Go!
©2025
Ready to Build in Japan?
Apply Early. Build Smart. Go Global.
If you’re building bold hardware and ready to scale, Forge gives you the tools, connections, and support to make it happen — in Japan and beyond. Applications open May 2025. Spots are limited.
FAQ
01
Is it really free to join?
02
Do I need to be based in Japan to apply?
03
What kind of startups are you looking for?
04
What sectors are a good fit?
05
Can I join the Leap Track directly?
06
Do you provide housing or visas?
07
Can I bring my co-founder or team members?
08
Is the program conducted in English?
Let's Work Together
©2025
Contact Now
Contact Us!
Got questions about Forge or the program fit? Drop us a message — we’re happy to connect and share more.