CoMotion and Kobe University: Building pathways for cross-border innovation

The University of Washington recently joined Kobe University in Japan to formalize a new phase of collaboration focused on innovation, entrepreneurship, and global startup engagement. The agreement builds on a broader UW–Kobe partnership established in 2023 and was marked by a signing ceremony and research workshop hosted in Kobe. Alongside colleagues from UW Global, representatives from CoMotion—including Associate Vice Provost for Innovation Strategy and Ventures Anson Fatland and CoMotion Labs Director Ashlee Esteban-Akimoto—participated in the event, highlighting UW’s commitment to strengthening international connections that support research translation and entrepreneurial activity.

The new memorandum of understanding focuses specifically on collaboration in innovation and startup development. Through CoMotion and CoMotion Labs, the partnership will support the exchange of market and innovation intelligence between the Seattle and Kobe regions, help startups explore opportunities in each other’s markets, and create joint programs that connect researchers and entrepreneurs across borders. These efforts are designed to give startups practical support as they navigate international markets, while strengthening the innovation ecosystems surrounding both universities.

The initiative complements the broader UW–Kobe relationship in education and research led by UW Global, which continues to expand opportunities for student exchange and academic collaboration. Together, these efforts reflect a shared commitment to connecting discovery, entrepreneurship, and global partnership to create real-world impact.