NEDO Deep-Tech Startup Support Program (DTSU)

DTSU STS (Early R&D Phase)

Funds Japanese startups through early research development for core technology creation in emerging industries.

DTSU STS (Startup Technology Support) is the first phase of NEDO's Deep-Tech Startup Support Program (DTSU), a Japanese national initiative with a total program budget of ¥87.7 billion running from FY2023 to FY2032. The STS phase funds core technology R&D for Japanese deep-tech startups that have moved beyond early-stage feasibility and are beginning prototype development and initial market hypothesis testing. Covered sectors span biotechnology, AI, quantum, robotics, semiconductors, advanced materials, space, medtech, clean energy, and agritech.

The maximum subsidy per STS project is ¥300 million (or ¥500 million when the applicant can submit a letter of intent and a plan for overseas technology demonstrations). NEDO's contribution rate is within two-thirds of subsidy-eligible expenses. Project duration is up to four years per phase, with a standard funding period of approximately 1.5 to two years between fundraising rounds. Eligibility is restricted to Japanese-registered for-profit startups. At least one-third of subsidy-eligible expenses must be covered by investment from VCs, CVCs, or operating companies within a NEDO-specified period, and the largest shareholder among these investors must be a VC or CVC. As of the 8th round, 55 companies have been adopted into STS across 111 total DTSU adoptions.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis across five annual recruitment rounds (FY2023–FY2027), with each company applying to only one phase. The Stage-Gate review process governs progression from STS to the PCA phase, where award caps increase to ¥500 million–¥1 billion for prototype and market validation activities. Inquiries are directed to NEDO's Startup Support Department at dtsu@nedo.go.jp.