Osaka University Partners with FoundersNation on Global Deeptech Curriculum

Tokyo startup educator will integrate Silicon Valley scaling frameworks into ministry-backed engineering graduate program starting August 2026.

SUITA — Osaka University’s Graduate School of Engineering signed an MOU July 15 with Tokyo-based FoundersNation to embed global startup curriculum into a new ministry-funded deeptech business program launching this August.

The “Deeptech Business Practice” reskilling program draws content from FoundersNation’s Startup Business School, which teaches scaling strategy using overseas case studies and practitioner faculty. On-demand lectures start in August; in-person classes begin October in Umeda. The collaboration is funded under MEXT’s FY2026 Industry-Academia Reskilling Ecosystem Construction Project and will roll into graduate coursework from FY2027.

Osaka University targets working professionals interested in technology-driven ventures, particularly those at firms in its Industry on Campus partner network. FoundersNation, launched in 2025 as Japan’s first “scalerator,” focuses on global growth strategy for startups in deeptech sectors including bio, space, and climate tech.

“There are specific battle plans for each deeptech field,” FoundersNation CEO Masaru Nagura said in the release. “Learning how overseas startups scale in various sectors lets you build your own business strategy.”

Kansai has historically lagged Tokyo in startup activity despite strong university research. Integrating Silicon Valley frameworks directly into Osaka University engineering programs could strengthen the region’s founder pipeline in high-capital sectors where global fundraising is essential. The first cohort enrolls August 2026.