FAQ

  • Next Kitchen 2026 is a mentoring and matching program designed for food tech startups worldwide that aim to expand their impact in Japan, starting in Kobe – the City of Gastronomy.

    This program is part of a Japanese government initiative organized by JETRO (Japan External Trade Organization), Hyogo Prefecture, and Kobe City.

    In partnership with Pasona Inc. and CROSSBIE GmbH, it brings together startups from around the world and leading Japanese corporations to create sustainable food solutions.

  • We welcome applications from startups worldwide that meet our criteria.

    Whether it's rethinking how we consume, promoting healthy eating, establishing a better cycle, or improving systems and logistics, we are seeking startups that are eager to join us in shaping the future of food.

    The criteria are as follows:

    1. Social impact - Your business aligns with our objectives and addresses food industry issues.

    2. Launch in Japan - You have a passion and determination to develop business in Japan.

    3. Market fit - Your business fits the needs of local authorities and other stakeholders effectively.

    4. Feasibility – Your business has a clear plan, and your product or service is not subject to Japan’s import restrictions.

    5. Scalability – Your business already has traction (e.g., revenue, funding, or users) and can maintain service standards while scaling up.

    6. Team - Your management team has a clear vision, the required strengths and a fascination for leveraging food tech to solve social challenges.

  • Applications will be open from October 13th, 2025, to November 14th, 2025.

  • Just fill in an application form here!

    Please email us at nextkitchen@pasona.co.jp if you have any queries or technical issues

  • Once you submit your application, you will receive a confirmation email. If you have any other queries or technical issues, feel free to contact us at nextkitchen@pasona.co.jp

  • We process applications on a rolling first-come, first-served basis so the earlier you apply, the better. We may contact you for clarification if needed.

    Applicants who pass the initial screening will be invited to one or two short interviews. Final selections will be made between mid-November till mid-December.

    A total of ten startups will be selected to join the program.

  • The program will take place in Japan for 4 days, from February 3rd to 6th, 2025.

    Selected startups will have one group online pre-briefing and one individual online pre-briefing prior to coming to Japan.

  • The entire program will be in English.

  • The program is free of charge, including conference tickets and business matching fees, thanks to JETRO funding

    The accommodation fee during the program is covered. However, the following expenses are not included: flights, meals, travel insurance, and local transportation.

    Further details will be provided once your selection is confirmed.

  • Above all, the crucial advantage for program participants is the chance to be matched with leading Japanese food companies. You will have ample chance to meet them during 1-to-1 business matching sessions and a demo day. All of which makes this program a must for any startup looking to launch its business in Japan!

    Throughout the program, participants will also receive guidance and mentoring from experts to help ensure a successful outcome. And with no outlay required, it's a real no-brainer.

  • One of our organizers, JETRO, will coordinate any business visa you may need and prepare the required documents. Please check the relevant Japanese government website for further details. Depending on the processing workload, delays to the process are possible.

  • Simply fill out the contact form at the bottom of the page or contact us via nextkitchen@pasona.co.jp

    If you don't receive any answer within a few days, please double-check your spam folder.