About TOKYO BIODESIGN
Advancing Healthcare Innovation through the Biodesign Methodology
TOKYO BIODESIGN offers a fellowship program based on the Biodesign innovation process to cultivate the next generation of healthcare entrepreneurs. As part of projects commissioned by the Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development (AMED), we also support startup development and global expansion initiatives.
Through these activities, we promote a collaborative ecosystem for medical device innovation while serving as an academic incubator that supports the translation of innovative ideas into real-world healthcare solutions.
Support Programs
We provide a broad range of support programs for healthcare professionals, researchers, medical device companies, and incubators engaged in medical device innovation.
Entrepreneurship Development
Biodesign Fellowship Program
Multidisciplinary teams composed of participants with backgrounds in medicine, engineering, and business work together to learn the Biodesign process through a hands-on fellowship program. Under the guidance of faculty from the University of Tokyo and Stanford University, along with external experts, participants engage in approximately one year of practical training focused on identifying unmet clinical needs and developing healthcare innovations.
Global Expansion
AMED "Medical-Engineering Collaboration Global Expansion Program — International Accompaniment Support Project"
For AMED-funded projects in the preclinical and clinical stages, we provide hands-on support aimed at expansion into the U.S. market. Through the MEDIC portal, we also deliver information on development and commercialization, host seminars, and offer one-stop consultation services in collaboration with the Osaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Startup Acceleration
AMED "Next Generation Health Tech Startup Development Support Project"
We provide end-to-end support for researchers in the health-tech field, from building the knowledge required for commercialization to refining business strategies using the Biodesign methodology, developing business plans, and building multidisciplinary teams. Our program also supports startups in becoming self-sustaining after program completion.
Emerging Market Entry Support
AMED "Research Program on Practical Application of Health Technology for Developing and Emerging Countries"
With a focus on emerging markets, we help companies prepare for international expansion by identifying unmet clinical needs through field observations and interviews with healthcare professionals. We also work with participating companies to clarify key challenges and define effective market entry strategies.
Key Features
International Incubator Network
Leveraging our global network of incubators, we connect companies with the right partners to support successful international expansion. These connections help streamline product development, reduce unnecessary delays, and accelerate business growth.
Pitch Event to Accelerate Health-Tech Innovation
Each year, we host a pitch event for researchers developing innovative health technologies, bringing together international experts and guests to support the translation of these innovations into real-world healthcare
Medical Device Company–Led Startup Acceleration Program
By bringing together medical device companies and investors to support startup growth, we foster an ecosystem that enables successful exits and sustainable innovation.