T

Startup incubator T-Hub and Japanese information and communication technology company OKI Electric Industry Co. (OKI) have partnered to launch a programme for Indian deeptech startups, primarily aimed at helping them validate their technologies and explore commercial opportunities in Japan.

A call for applications drew more than 150 entries. Following a multi-stage evaluation, eight startups have been shortlisted. They will work with OKI on industrial use cases in water infrastructure, logistics and supply chain.

Through the programme, they will engage directly with OKI’s business and technical teams, receive mentorship on product-market fit for Japanese industrial use cases, and explore opportunities for pilot projects and co-development, T-Hub said announcing the launch.

The collaboration comes amid India and Japan looking to expand cooperation across technology, innovation and industrial partnerships. It also comes ahead of the India-Japan Year of Shared Horizons 2027, which will mark 75 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries, the incubator said.

“T-Hub worked closely with OKI leadership to translate business priorities into problem statements that founders could solve and create long-term value. The collaboration reflects our commitment... to enable Indian startups to scale globally,” CEO Kavikrut said. The partnership expands T-Hub’s engagement with Japan. Panasonic, Suzuki, Toyota, JETRO, JICA and Beyond Next Ventures are some of the entities with which it has collaborations.

“The startups demonstrated strong technical depth and market readiness. Together with T-Hub, we look forward to advancing discussions with the shortlisted startups and exploring opportunities that create long-term value for both sides,” said Yusuke Takahashi, Global Marketing Center, Executive Professional, OKI.