ASEAN startups have been creating innovations that solve social issues by utilizing digital technology in a wide range of fields such as logistics, payments, and finance. 

With ASEAN's rising prominence as a source of innovation, it has become crucial for Japanese companies to collaborate with startups from the region so that they can incorporate innovations and become more competitive in the growing Southeast Asian market.

The Singapore–Japan Fast Track Pitch Event aims to give startups the opportunity to pitch their ideas to big companies from both ASEAN and Japan.

The initiative is part of the ASEAN–Japan Co-Creation Fast Track Initiative launched by Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) and the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) to support open innovation through collaboration between startups and large companies from both ASEAN and Japan. 

Under the scheme, startups will have the opportunity to receive support not only from JETRO, but also from government agencies in ASEAN, and access resources not only from major Japanese companies, but also from global companies in ASEAN.

The Singapore–Japan Fast Track Pitch Event is co-organized with the Singapore Ministry of Trade and Industry, Enterprise Singapore, and the Singapore Economic Development Board.

Eight companies from Japan and Singapore are participating and will provide the challenges for participating startups. 

Deadline for pitch proposals is on 19 March.