Sri Lanka Professional Association in Japan

Kakehashi

“Unlocking Ideas: Bridging startups to seed their mark”

What is Kakehashi ?

Kakehashi means “building bridges”. The Sri Lanka Professional Association in Japan
(SLPAJ) organizes the annual event as a platform for Startups to pitch their ideas to
investors to broaden their scope and market. The event enables the Startups to
showcase their unique value proposition, foster networking opportunities, raise brand
awareness, and generate leads.

Startup Kakehashi Value Proposition

Amplify Startup Visibility

Present to a diverse audience and attract attention, gain exposure, and be a
game-changer

Forge Strategic Connections

Networking opportunities with start-ups and investors to build relationships and
partnerships

Expert Guidance and Mentorship

Experts curation to navigate challenges and strategies for growth

Access to Resources and Support

Access to support from service providers, incubators and accelerators to scale the
business

Recognition and Awards

Celebrate entrepreneurial excellence in innovation, economy, social, environmental
impact, and disruptions

Partnership Opportunities

The STARTUP KAKEHASHI event provides opportunities for the Startups registered with
Support Partners to enter Japan and similar markets.

Key Highlights

Startup Kakehashi 2022

Kakehashi 2022 was the inaugural year. SLPAJ partnered with ICTA Sri Lanka, for the onboarding of 34 Startup candidates. Through a selection process, 13 Startups were shortlisted, of which six pitched at the final round

Startup Kakehashi 2022

The Startup Kakehashi 2023’s second edition, spearheaded by Aroos Kiyabdeen, concluded triumphantly on January 24, 2024, thanks to the substantial backing from our support partners. This year, ICTA Spiralation, SLASSCOM, JETRO, Lanka Angel Network, TRACE, and MORA Ventures all came on board as official supporters, enriching the program. Initially, the competition saw 36 startups from diverse sectors register, culminating in a competitive finale with four startups vying for the top spot.

Testimonials

JENDO Innovations (Pvt) Ltd (Winners of Kakehashi 2022)
The Kakehashi competition in 2022 organized by the SLPAJ, was a new bridge for the Sri
Lankan startup companies to connect with the highest level international audience who has
access to the resources. Continuation of the program will bring the opportunity to widen the
reach for the emerging entrepreneurs. Winning the prestigious competition has been a life-changing experience for me and my team as it was offering personal growth, funding, cultural exchange, and valuable connections.The competition challenged participants to push boundaries, be resilient, and think innovatively,fostering skills that extend beyond professional achievements.

TALCO Solutions (Pvt) Ltd (Winners of Kakehashi 2023)