Get matched with experienced mentors who can help your startup grow. 

The OIST Venture Mentoring Service (VMS) connects OIST-affiliated startups with a diverse network of seasoned mentors — entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders who are committed to helping you navigate the challenges of building a company. 
Applications are now open for the next round of mentor matching.  

What is the OIST VMS? 

The OIST VMS is modeled on the MIT Venture Mentoring Service, one of the world's most respected startup mentoring programs. It offers: 

• Team-based mentoring — Each startup is supported by a small team of mentors with complementary expertise, not just one advisor. 
• Structured sessions — Regular one-on-one sessions with your mentor team, with a consistent format designed to make every meeting count. 
• Confidentiality — Everything discussed within the VMS is kept strictly confidential. 
• No equity, no fees — Mentors volunteer their time. The program is free for participating startups. 
• Long-term support — Relationships are designed to develop over time, not just a one-off introduction. 

Who can apply? 

This round is open to: 

• Researchers and lab-based startups at OIST who are exploring commercialisation of their research 
• Startups in the OIST Accelerator Program (current and recent cohorts) 

You don't need to have a fully formed company — early-stage ventures with a clear problem and initial traction are encouraged to apply. 

What our mentors bring 

Our mentor network includes professionals with experience across: 

• Deep tech and science-based startup commercialisation 
• Fundraising, venture capital, and investor relations 
• Go-to-market strategy and enterprise sales 
• Japan market entry and cross-border expansion 
• Intellectual property strategy and licensing 
• Team building, leadership, and operations 

Who are the mentors? 

You can find bios for many of our mentors here — note that the list is not exhaustive and additional mentors are also part of the program. 
https://www.oist.jp/innovation/mentoring-startup-support-innovation/mentors 

What happens after you apply? 

1. Submit your application by June 21 
2. Get matched with a mentor team based on your needs and mentor expertise  
3. Attend a mentee orientation — We'll walk you through the program structure and what to prepare before your first session. Scheduled for July 29 4-5pm. If you can't make it in person, individual meetings can be arranged. 
4. Start your first session — sessions are expected to begin around August 

*Please note that submitting an application does not guarantee a mentor match. OIST Innovation will review all applications carefully and make matching decisions based on the urgency of each startup's needs and mentor availability and preferences. Some applicants may not be matched in this cohort. 

Ready to apply? 

→ [Application Form] 

Deadline: June 21 Sunday, 2025 

Questions? Contact us at [vms@oist.jp] 

OIST Venture Mentoring Service is run by OIST Innovation. The program structure is based on the MIT Venture Mentoring Service, used with permission.