Can Startups Become the Invisible Infrastructure of Society?

In an era of intensifying technological rivalry between nations, “economic security” and “technological sovereignty” have become top-priority agendas that will determine a country’s survival and the future of its industries. This session goes beyond conventional startup support to ask how startups can become the “invisible infrastructure” that underpins society and national security. From satellites, cybersecurity, and disaster resilience to drones and AI-driven autonomous control — the trend toward leveraging private advanced technologies in dual-use (civilian and military) applications is accelerating, moving away from traditional public procurement and large-corporate-led development models. Speakers include Mr. Taki of Kearney, who brings a global view of industrial transformation; Mr. Kobayashi of the Liberal Democratic Party, who is active on the front lines of economic security policy; Mr. Kajita of Singular Perturbations, who aims to build the next-generation infrastructure; and Mr. Tokushige of Terra Drone, challenging the world with drone technology. Combining deep perspectives from both policy and industry, the panel will thoroughly examine the real challenges startups face within this vast tide and the strategies Japan should adopt.