PICHTR Announces J-StarX Dual-Use Technology Accelerator Program Companies

New program equips Japanese startup entrepreneurs with the knowledge, skills, and network for successful international dual-use collaborations

HONOLULU — January 23,2024 — The Pacific International Center for High Technology Research (PICHTR) welcomed to Oahu a cohort of entrepreneurs selected from leading dual-use technology start-up companies from Japan. The cohort is part of PICHTR’s new J-StarX Dual-Use Technology Accelerator Program funded by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) of Japan and administered by Deloitte Tohmatsu Venture Support (DTVS).

“PICHTR intends the J-StarX Dual-Use Technology Accelerator Program to be a win-win for Japanese companies, the U.S. Department of Defense, and Hawaii entities,” said Ian Kitajima, President of PICHTR. “Participating cohort startup companies will graduate the program with the knowledge, skills, and network for successful international dual-use expansion, and most importantly, with meaningful relationships with like-minded government entities and Hawaii-based companies that mutually benefit from future collaboration.”

These venture-funded companies are Series B and C, and thus have existing products and customers, and are prime to scale beyond Japan. The PICHTR program will provide the fundamental working knowledge of doing business in the US dual-use sector. These companies span multiple industries and applications.

The J-StarX Dual-Use Technology Accelerator Program will culminate with a Demo Day, whereby participating startup companies will pitch their solutions to potential customers and interested stakeholders.  Demo Day will be held at PICHTR’s inaugural Partnership for Climate Technology (PaCT) Conference taking place on February 5-6, 2024 at the Ala Moana Honolulu by Mantra Hotel (410 Atkinson Dr, Honolulu, HI 96814). The PaCT Conference will bring together experts, innovators, and influencers from the Asia-Pacific region to discuss the latest trends, share knowledge, and shape the future of Hawaii and the region on climate change and dual-use technology solutions

PICHTR invites entities interested in learning more about the J-StarX Dual-Use Technology Accelerator Program (including cohort companies and Demo Day) and the PaCT Conference to please contact Ian Kitajima at [email protected].

About PICHTR

The Pacific International Center for High Technology Research (PICHTR) is a leader in the planning, development, evaluation, and deployment of place-based sustainable practices, with a mission to facilitate the adoption and implementation of these practices throughout Hawai’i and Asia Pacific. PICHTR was established by the State of Hawaii Legislature in 1983 before being incorporated in 1985 as an independent, Hawai’i-based 501(c)(3) organization. www.pichtr.org

About Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) of Japan

METI’s mission is to develop Japan’s economy and industry by focusing on promoting economic vitality in private companies and smoothly advancing external economic relationships, and to secure stable and efficient supply of energy and mineral resources.