In a significant move to bolster blockchain innovation, Ripple has partnered with Web3 Salon, a project backed by the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO). This collaboration aims to provide financial support of up to $200,000 per project for promising startups building on the XRP Ledger (XRPL) in Japan. The partnership underscores Ripple’s commitment to advancing Asia’s digital asset ecosystem. It also fosters growth in the region’s blockchain space.
Ripple and Web3 Salon: A Strategic Collaboration
Announced via an official X post, the partnership between Ripple and Web3 Salon is designed to empower startups leveraging the XRP Ledger.
As part of Ripple’s 1 billion XRP initiative and the XRPL Japan and Korea Fund, this collaboration offers comprehensive support. It includes financial grants, technical resources, and business development assistance.
Christina Chan, Senior Director of Developer Growth at RippleX, highlighted the significance of the partnership:
“Ripple is proud to collaborate with Web3 Salon to unlock new opportunities in Japan’s thriving startup ecosystem. Together, we hope to fuel innovation and support the next generation of leaders.”
The initiative comes at a pivotal time for Ripple, as the company anticipates the resolution of its long-standing lawsuit with the SEC, with the 60-day window nearing its end. Despite lingering uncertainties, Ripple continues to expand its presence in key markets like Japan. There, regulatory clarity and technological adoption create fertile ground for blockchain innovation.
Japan: A Hub for Blockchain Adoption
Japan has emerged as a global leader in blockchain regulation and consumer protection. It is an ideal environment for Ripple’s initiatives. With partnerships already established with major players like SBI Holdings, HashKey DX, and Mercari, Ripple is further solidifying its foothold in the region.
Projections suggest that 80% of Japanese banks are expected to adopt Ripple’s XRP by the end of 2025. This will drive advancements in payments, supply chain finance, Web3 applications, NFTs, and startup funding.
Hinza Asif, President of the Asia Web3 Alliance Japan, emphasized the importance of this collaboration:
“Japan is one of the most exciting and challenging markets for Web3 and blockchain adoption. Through this partnership with Ripple, we aim to support visionary founders and strengthen the bridge between global innovation and Japan’s tech landscape.”
This partnership not only supports startups but also positions blockchain technology as a catalyst for economic recovery amid Japan’s recent economic turmoil. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba described the country’s current economic challenges as worse than Greece’s financial crisis. Ripple’s alliance with Web3 Salon offers a beacon of hope. It leverages blockchain to drive innovation, growth, and global connectivity.
Four Key Events to Accelerate Momentum
To amplify visibility and foster collaboration, Ripple and Web3 Salon will co-host four major community events between now and March 2026. These gatherings will bring together startups, regulators, enterprise leaders, and investors to explore the potential of blockchain technology.
The agenda includes:
- Startup pitch competitions: Showcasing Japan’s top blockchain talent.
- Industry panels and fireside chats: Featuring domestic and international thought leaders.
- Investor networking sessions: Connecting startups with potential backers.
- Educational workshops: Covering topics like tokenization, compliance, and cross-border growth.
Each event is designed to accelerate growth not only for individual startups but also for the broader blockchain ecosystem in Japan.
Navigating Japan’s Complex Yet Promising Web3 Landscape
While Japan’s highly structured regulatory environment provides clarity and consumer protection, it can also pose challenges for emerging startups and frontier technologies. Ripple and Web3 Salon aim to lower barriers to entry. They seek to help startups navigate Japan’s complex yet promising Web3 landscape.
With the backing of JETRO, the partnership is also committed to engaging more fintech startups. It supports their scaling efforts through blockchain technology.
“Japan is one of the most exciting and challenging markets for Web3 and blockchain adoption,” said Hinza Asif . “Through this partnership with Ripple, we aim to support visionary founders and strengthen the bridge between global innovation and Japan’s tech landscape.”
A Global Effort to Drive Institutional-Grade Blockchain Solutions
This collaboration reflects more than just momentum—it highlights a coordinated effort to bring institutional-grade infrastructure to one of Asia’s most forward-thinking economies. By uniting public institutions, private companies, and grassroots innovators, Ripple and Web3 Salon are creating a blueprint for scalable impact in the blockchain space.
As Ripple continues to expand its presence in Japan, this partnership signals a new chapter in the company’s journey. By empowering startups and fostering innovation, Ripple and Web3 Salon are paving the way for a more connected, efficient, and technologically advanced future.
