TOKYO, (Economy india): Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Wednesday proposed an India-Japan startup pitching series inspired by the popular television programme Shark Tank, aimed at connecting emerging businesses from the two countries with investors and potential business partners.
Speaking at a roundtable focused on startups, Goyal said India and Japan could organise regular pitching sessions where promising young companies get an opportunity to present their business ideas, products and growth plans to investors.
The minister suggested that the initiative could be conducted virtually, making use of digital connectivity to bring Indian and Japanese entrepreneurs together without the need for frequent travel.
“India and Japan can develop a pitching series, something like the Shark Tank initiative, that can help young startups pitch,” Goyal said.
The proposed platform could provide startups with greater exposure to investors while helping them identify potential Japanese and Indian business partners. It could also encourage collaboration in areas such as technology, innovation, manufacturing, digital services and emerging industries.
India has been seeking to deepen economic and commercial engagement with Japan, while Japanese companies have shown interest in India’s growing consumer market, manufacturing capabilities and expanding startup ecosystem.
A structured startup pitching programme could therefore provide a new avenue for entrepreneurs from both countries to explore investment opportunities and develop cross-border partnerships.
Goyal’s proposal comes at a time when India is encouraging greater international participation in its startup ecosystem and promoting innovation-led businesses. Japan, meanwhile, has a strong base of established companies, investors and technology expertise that could complement India’s large pool of young entrepreneurs.
The initiative, if taken forward, could help startups gain access to capital, mentorship and international markets. It could also strengthen business-to-business connections and contribute to closer economic ties between India and Japan.
The proposal highlights the growing importance of startups and innovation in strengthening bilateral economic relations and creating new opportunities for businesses in both countries.
(Economy india)
