METI Launches “J-Startup KANSAI” Initiative to Propel Kansai Region Startups onto the Global Stage

The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) proudly announces the launch of the “J-Startup KANSAI” initiative, a regional adaptation of Japan’s national J-Startup program.

Originally introduced in 2018, this initiative aims to accelerate the growth of promising startups in the Kansai region by offering robust support through strategic public-private partnerships.

The “J-Startup KANSAI” initiative is designed to nurture innovative startups with the potential to expand both nationwide and globally. Selected startups, recognized as “J-Startup KANSAI Companies,” will receive various forms of assistance, including enhanced corporate public relations, access to specialized startup support projects, and partial integration into the national J-Startup program. By fostering these startups, METI seeks to create role models that will invigorate the local startup ecosystem and contribute to Japan’s overall economic growth.

AC Biode – A J-Startup KANSAI Company Seeking UK Partners

Among the first cohort of J-Startup KANSAI Companies is AC Biode, a pioneering environmental technology company that addresses two of the world’s most pressing challenges: waste management and clean energy production.

AC Biode’s innovative technology converts organic waste into valuable chemicals, such as hydrogen (H2) and carbon monoxide (CO), which are essential components for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and biodiesel. Additionally, the company transforms plastic waste into monomer and methanol, contributing to a circular economy.

Unlike traditional organic methods like biodigestion, AC Biode’s process is a chemical method that operates at a significantly faster rate—completing reactions in just two hours. The process is highly scalable and energy-efficient, using only water, biomass, and a reusable catalyst at a relatively low temperature of 200°C. The technology offers substantial advantages, including reduced energy consumption, lower operational costs, and the elimination of CO2 emissions during the reaction.

AC Biode is actively seeking partners in the United Kingdom to collaborate on the development of a demonstration plant. This partnership aims to showcase the viability of their technology on a global scale and contribute to the UK’s clean energy and waste management goals.

For more information about AC Biode and partnership opportunities, please visit their website at https://acbiode.com/.