Press Release
Japan Airlines Named Official Airline of "TECH-Tokyo"
- Supporting Innovation at TECH's Global Hub, Bringing Together Researchers from World-Renowned Universities and Research Institutions -
Summary
- TECH-Tokyo will be established at Shibuya Sakura Stage as a global hub where researchers from leading universities and research institutions collaborate with Japanese companies and the academic organizations to exchange innovative ideas and commercialize scientific discoveries.
- As the official airline, JAL supports the smooth and comfortable travel of TECH-Tokyo affiliates, contributing to the promotion of exchange and innovation between Japan and the U.S., while taking on the challenge of creating new value originating from TECH-Tokyo.
（Left: TECH-Tokyo Jorge Cortell, Right: Japan Airlines Co., LTd. Corporate Planning Division Hisayuki Sekine）
Tokyo, JAPAN – Japan Airlines (JAL) has been appointed as the official airline for the 'Technology Exchange and Collaboration Hub in Tokyo' (hereinafter referred to as TECH-Tokyo), effective June 10, 2025 (Japan Time).
The airline provides seamless and comfortable travel between Japan and the United States, strengthening and expanding connections and relationships between Japanese companies, universities, entrepreneurs, and investors, fostering exchanges and innovation between Japan and the United States.
By leveraging TECH-Tokyo’s access to the extensive networks of leading universities, JAL aims to promote open innovation through collaborative research and proof-of-concept initiatives that incorporate the latest technologies and business models.
In addition, JAL will encourage its employees to participate in face-to-face education programs led by the world-renowned universities’ faculty at TECH-Tokyo. This initiative aims to nurture talent capable of thriving in global environments, further contributing to the creation of robust and diverse expertise, while taking on the challenge of creating new value.
[About TECH-Tokyo]
TECH-Tokyo (Technology Exchange and Collaboration Hub in Tokyo) is an independent global hub that connects academia and industry. It brings together researchers from world-renowned universities and research institutions to collaborate with Japanese businesses and academic institutions, facilitating innovation and applying scientific knowledge.
This initiative operates under the supervision of a board of directors composed of Japanese business leaders and scholars, ensuring its independence and credibility while aiming to deliver substantive value to Japanese society.
TECH-Tokyo serves as a vital platform for invigorating the nation's innovation ecosystem, attracting world-class talent, and accelerating the commercialization of cutting-edge technologies. It aligns with Japan's policy priorities, including digital transformation, economic revitalization, and enhancing global competitiveness. Additionally, it contributes to nurturing a new generation of technology leaders who will drive inclusive growth and international collaboration.
The activities of-TECH-Tokyo not only enhance Japan's international standing in science and technology but also play a critical role in strengthening the nation's resilience and ensuring sustainable prosperity. This is particularly important as Japan addresses societal challenges like demographic changes and economic transitions.
Location: SHIBUYA Tower, 37th Floor, Shibuya Sakura Stage
1-1 Sakuraoka-cho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, JAPAN 150-0031
Website: https://tech-tokyo.org/
Opening Date: October 2025
■ Relationship Between TECH-Tokyo and Harvard University
The concept behind TECH-Tokyo originated from research conducted by Mr. Jorge Cortell during his tenure as an Innovation Fellow at Harvard University's School of Engineering and Applied Sciences.
Currently, Mr. Cortell serves as a Senior Advisor at the Harvard Innovation Lab (i-lab), further strengthening the collaboration between TECH-Tokyo and Harvard’s entrepreneurial and innovation network.
This project has since expanded its scope, establishing broader partnerships with other globally acclaimed academic institutions.
