The Information Technology Industry Development Agency (ITIDA), in partnership with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) through Project NINJA, is inviting Egyptian startups to join the official delegation to SusHi Tech Tokyo 2026. This mission offers a prestigious gateway to the Japanese market, providing high-level exposure and strategic collaboration opportunities at one of Asia’s leading global innovation platforms.
At a Glance
- Opportunity Type: Global Innovation Mission & Exhibition Delegation
- For: Egyptian Startups (Series A preferred, legally registered)
- Key Benefits: Fully funded travel for one representative, exhibition booth, investor matching, and corporate connections
- Application Deadline: January 26, 2026
- Location: Tokyo, Japan (Event dates: April 27–29, 2026)
Delegation Program Overview
This mission is designed to showcase Egypt’s most innovative technology startups on a global stage. Selected startups will join the official Egyptian delegation to SusHi Tech Tokyo 2026, held from April 27 to April 29, 2026.
The program aims to unlock collaboration opportunities with Japanese corporates and support global expansion through curated business matching. Beyond the exhibition, the mission includes a potential extended stay (tentatively April 18 – May 3, 2026) comprising business meetings, networking events, and ecosystem visits to bridge Egyptian innovation with Japanese industry leadership.
Key Benefits
Selected participants (up to 10 startups) will receive comprehensive support to ensure a successful mission:
- Travel Coverage: JICA will cover round-trip international economy airfare (Cairo-Tokyo), accommodation, and a daily allowance (per diem) for one representative per startup.
- Market Access: Direct access to Japanese VCs, CVCs, and leading corporates for potential Proof of Concepts (PoCs) and investment.
- Exhibition Space: Participation as an exhibitor at SusHi Tech Tokyo, one of Asia’s largest innovation events.
- Curated Engagement: Organized business meetings and networking events tailored to connect startups with the local ecosystem.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the delegation, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Legal Status: Must be a legally registered Egyptian startup.
- Stage: Preferably Series A and above with established product-market fit.
- Traction: Demonstrated revenue, paying customers, active pilots, or strong user growth.
- Relevance: Operating in sectors aligned with Japanese corporate interests (see below).
- Communication: Founders or CXO-level leaders must be able to communicate effectively in English.
Target Sectors
The program is specifically looking for startups operating in verticals that align with Japanese industry needs:
- AI, DeepTech, and Robotics
- Mobility, EV, Battery, and Manufacturing Tech
- Smart City, IoT, CleanTech, and Energy
- FinTech and InsurTech
- HealthTech, Diagnostics, and Pharmacy
- AgriTech, FoodTech, and Supply Chain
- Commerce & Marketplace Platforms (B2B/B2C)
Key Dates and Schedule
- Application Deadline: January 26, 2026
- Selection Announcement: February 19, 2026
- Pre-departure Briefings: March 2026
- Travel Window: Late April 2026 (Tentative window April 18 – May 3)
- Event Dates: April 27–29, 2026
How to Apply
Eligible founders should prepare a Pitch Deck (covering problem/solution, business model, traction, financial highlights, and team) and optionally a 1-2 minute video pitch.
Application Deadline: January 26, 2026
About ITIDA & JICA
ITIDA (Information Technology Industry Development Agency) is the executive arm of the Egyptian Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, dedicated to building and championing Egypt’s IT industry. JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency) coordinates official development assistance for the Japanese government. They are collaborating through Project NINJA (Next Innovation with Japan) to support high-growth startups in developing countries.
Learn More: ITIDA Website
