NEDO Entrepreneurs Program (NEP)

The NEDO Entrepreneurs Program (NEP) is NEDO's earliest-stage support for individuals and early-stage Japanese startups with strong technology potential. NEP operates two tracks: 1. **Exploratory Track** — supports individuals (researchers, would-be founders) in validating ideas through feasibility studies and early research. Funds basic feasibility validation before company formation. 2. **Advanced Track** — funds early-stage startups preparing for commercialization. Bridges from technical validation to business model validation, customer development, and commercial readiness. At the NEP stage, founders validate both their technology and business model — critical in deep tech where the gap between research and viable commercial product can be wide. NEP graduates often progress to the Deep-Tech Startup Support Program (DTSU) for larger-scale R&D scaling. NEP applications are accepted in annual rounds. Award sizes for Exploratory and Advanced tracks are smaller than the DTSU programme — typically in the tens of millions of yen — and project durations are typically 1-2 years.

Each grant below is a distinct funding opportunity with its own eligibility, scope, and deliverables.