Nobuji Kanai Profile
Global Startup Consultant
I work with foreign founders and global startups building and scaling their businesses in Japan.
My focus is on helping entrepreneurs navigate Japan’s complex ecosystem — from public funding and loans to business planning and local strategy — and turning institutional systems into practical, executable paths.
Through this site, I share real cases and insights drawn from working at the intersection of
global founders, local ecosystems, and Japan’s startup future.
For practical insights and case studies, you can join the newsletter or connect on LinkedIn.
Articles by Nobuji Kanai
Why the First Strategic Decision Matters in Japan ― Understanding Startup Quadrants for Global Founders
2026年1月27日
Looking Back, the Pattern Was Always There About thirty years ago, I translated New Venture Creation by Jeffrey A. Timmons — a Harvard Business School textbook on entrepreneurship — into Japanese. At the same time, I
🌏 What KANAI&CO Means by “Global Startup Consulting”
2026年1月19日
Rethinking What “Global” Really Means When people talk about “global startups” in Japan, the term often carries different meanings depending on who is speaking. For some, “global” means expanding overseas. For others, it means dealing with
🇯🇵 How Can Foreign Entrepreneurs Secure Funding in Japan in the Shortest and Fastest Way?
2026年1月13日
For many foreign entrepreneurs starting a business in Japan, securing funding is one of the most complex and frustrating hurdles. Language, business culture, local customs, banking relationships―all of these can be unfamiliar and difficult to navigate.
⚒ Update Coming Soon
2026年1月11日
Support case studies and industry news are coming soon We’ll soon be sharing stories of companies we’ve supported, along with timely updates on subsidies, financing, and business strategies. Through real-life examples and market insights, we aim
⚒ Update Coming Soon
2026年1月11日
Insights on business strategy and planning are coming soon Soon, we’ll be sharing perspectives and practical know-how on developing business strategies and creating growth-focused plans. Our content will be especially helpful for companies seeking clarity in
⚒ Update Coming Soon
2026年1月11日
Latest updates on financing and funding are coming soon We’ll be publishing information on bank loans, private and public funding sources, and capital strategies in the near future. This section will offer practical advice for those
⚒ Update Coming Soon
2026年1月11日
Latest updates on subsidies and grants are coming soon We will soon be sharing detailed information on relevant programs, application procedures, and updates on subsidies and grants through this blog. Our aim is to provide clear