Europe Attracts Significant Japanese Capital
Since 2019, European startups have secured roughly €33 billion in funding from Japanese investors, according to a report by Dealroom and NordicNinja. This reflects a strategic shift as Japanese venture funds and corporate backers seek higher growth opportunities abroad, moving beyond the slower domestic market. Europe’s thriving innovation hubs and well-established research networks have made it an increasingly popular destination for international investment.
Deep-Tech and AI Lead the Investment Surge
The majority of Japanese funding is directed toward deep-tech ventures, including robotics, quantum computing, and advanced materials. Startups working in artificial intelligence and sustainable technologies are also attracting strong interest. Major Japanese corporations use these investments to gain early access to transformative technologies and build long-term partnerships. NordicNinja, a European venture fund supported by Japanese investors, plays a central role in connecting Japanese capital with promising startups across Northern and Western Europe.
Government Support Strengthens Europe’s Appeal
The United Kingdom, Germany, and France are the primary beneficiaries of Japan’s tech investments, supported by strong research infrastructures and policies designed to foster innovation. Europe’s position has been reinforced by a €1.4 billion European Union initiative launched in 2024 to accelerate deep-tech growth. For Japanese investors, Europe provides both attractive financial returns and a strategic gateway to technologies shaping the next generation of global industry.
