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NEDO Entrepreneurs Program (NEP)

NEP Exploratory Track

Supports Japanese early innovators exploring deep-tech ideas before formal company formation through applied feasibility work.

NEP Exploratory Track is NEDO's (New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization) entry-level support instrument for individuals — researchers, engineers, and would-be founders — who are validating deep-tech ideas before company formation. The track is the earliest rung in NEDO's startup support ladder, which extends upward through the NEP Advanced Track and ultimately to the Deep-Te…

Individuals (researchers, would-be founders) with deep-tech ideas in robotics, AI, biotechnology, space, advanced materials, energy. Pre-company-formation feasibility validation.

CycleiHow often this grant runs — e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.Annual
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.—
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.12 weeks
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.—
Award typeiThe form of funding — grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Grant
Match fundingiThe share of project costs you must cover yourself. 0% = fully funded.0%
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.Â¥1.5B

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Last verified: 22 Jul 2026Source: www.blackboxjp.com