T-Hub and Japan's OKI join hands to take Indian deeptech startups global

Hyderabad-based startup incubator T-Hub and Japanese information and communication technology company OKI Electric Industry Co. have launched a new programme to help Indian deeptech startups validate their technologies and explore business opportunities in Japan.

The initiative, announced on Wednesday, comes at a time when India and Japan are deepening their cooperation in technology, innovation, and industrial partnerships. The collaboration also precedes the India-Japan Year of Shared Horizons 2027, which will mark 75 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries, T-Hub said in a statement.

According to T-Hub, the programme received more than 150 applications. After a multi-stage evaluation, eight startups have been shortlisted. These startups will work with OKI on industrial use cases in water infrastructure, logistics, and supply chain management.

Selected startups will engage directly with OKI's business and technical teams. They will receive mentorship on product-market fit for Japanese industrial applications and will be able to explore opportunities for pilot projects and co-development, the incubator said.

T-Hub CEO Kavikrut said the collaboration reflects the organisation's commitment to enabling Indian startups to scale globally. “T-Hub worked closely with OKI leadership to translate business priorities into problem statements that founders could solve and create long-term value,” he said.

The partnership expands T-Hub's existing engagement with Japan. The incubator already collaborates with Japanese entities such as Panasonic, Suzuki, Toyota, JETRO, JICA, and Beyond Next Ventures.

Yusuke Takahashi, Global Marketing Center, Executive Professional at OKI, said the shortlisted 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,” he added.

The programme is expected to strengthen the innovation ecosystem by bridging Indian startups with Japanese industrial needs. It also aligns with the broader strategic partnership between the two countries, which has seen growing business and government-level exchanges in recent years.

Deeptech startups often face challenges in entering overseas markets due to differences in regulations, business practices, and industry standards. By working closely with a major Japanese technology company, the selected Indian startups will gain practical insights into the Japanese market, helping them tailor their solutions accordingly.

Industry experts say such cross-border collaborations are vital for Indian startups looking to expand beyond domestic markets. Japan's industrial sector, particularly in areas like water infrastructure and logistics, offers significant opportunities for Indian companies with innovative technological solutions.

With the India-Japan Year of Shared Horizons approaching in 2027, both nations are expected to intensify their efforts in promoting joint technology initiatives. Programmes like this one are likely to play a key role in fostering deeper ties between the startup ecosystems of both countries.