Key Takeaways:
- SVG Ventures | THRIVE and JETRO have partnered to launch “Harvest Horizons,” a program aimed at globalizing Japanese agri-food tech startups.
- The program includes a 6-week acceleration period followed by two immersion weeks in Silicon Valley.
- Participants will gain access to market insights, go-to-market strategies, and a global network of investors, customers, and strategic partners.
- The program features exclusive opportunities at the THRIVE Global Impact Summit, supported by leading corporates like ICL, BASF, and Bayer.
- The initiative reflects a strong commitment to fostering innovation in the agri-food tech sector and expanding the global reach of Japanese startups.
SVG Ventures | THRIVE, the world’s leading agri-food tech investor, and the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) have joined forces to launch “Harvest Horizons,” a groundbreaking program designed to accelerate the globalization of Japanese agri-food tech startups. This initiative aims to equip participating companies with the essential tools, insights, and networks needed to thrive on the international stage.
Program Overview: From Acceleration to Immersion
“Harvest Horizons” will feature a comprehensive 6-week acceleration period, followed by two intensive immersion weeks in Silicon Valley. During these pivotal weeks, participating startups will engage directly with potential investors, customers, and strategic partners, gaining invaluable exposure to the global market. The program is strategically anchored by the THRIVE Global Impact Summit, a premier event in the agri-food tech industry that attracts delegations from around the world. The Summit, supported by leading industry players such as ICL, BASF, Bayer, Syngenta, and Krone, provides a unique platform for startups to showcase their innovations and connect with key stakeholders.
Unparalleled Expertise and Network Support
SVG Ventures | THRIVE brings over a decade of experience in agri-food tech investment and acceleration to the program. Recognized as the top Agri-food Accelerator by AgFunder, THRIVE has built an extensive global network of investors and business partners, offering participating startups unparalleled opportunities for growth and collaboration. The program will also leverage THRIVE’s mentor network and internal team, which possess deep domain expertise in agri-food tech, business development, investment, and open innovation. This expertise is further enhanced by THRIVE’s long-standing relationships with Japanese companies such as Kubota, Yamaha, NEC, and Kagome, many of whom are eager to support the program through mentorship and strategic guidance.
Strategic Collaboration to Expand Global Reach
The collaboration between SVG Ventures | THRIVE and JETRO marks a significant milestone in the global expansion of Japanese agri-food tech startups. John Hartnett, Founder and CEO of SVG Ventures | THRIVE, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership: “We’re thrilled to partner with JETRO to launch ‘Harvest Horizons,’ a program that will empower Japanese startups with the tools, knowledge, and global connections they need to scale their innovations worldwide. Our extensive experience in agri-food tech, coupled with our robust network, positions us to provide unparalleled support to these companies as they embark on their journey of global expansion. This collaboration not only highlights the immense potential within the Japanese agri-food tech ecosystem but also underscores our commitment to fostering innovation that addresses the world’s most pressing agricultural challenges.”
Yusuke Kaga, representative from JETRO, also highlighted the strategic importance of this partnership: “By partnering with SVG Ventures | THRIVE, we aim to leverage their extensive network to establish a robust presence of Japanese agri-food tech startups in the US market. With high standards of quality control, a supportive innovation ecosystem, and robust deep-tech assets, Japanese agri-food tech startups are well-equipped to bring their reliable and high-quality products and services to the US market.”