Partner News
Space Foundation Partners With cross U to Strengthen Ties and Facilitate Integration of Japanese Companies Into the U.S. Space Industry
Written by: Space Foundation Editorial Team

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — Jan. 30, 2025 — Space Foundation, a nonprofit organization founded in 1983 as a gateway to unite the global space community, today announced that its Space Commerce Institute is partnering with Japanese-based organization cross U. This collaboration aims to help Japan strengthen its ties with the U.S. space industry by preparing its companies for global partnerships and equipping them with the knowledge and tools to navigate opportunities.
Kelli Kedis Ogborn, Space Foundation vice president of space commerce and entrepreneurship, remarked, “Japanese innovation in space technology are vital to strengthening the U.S. space industry, fostering collaboration that drives exploration, enhances resilience, and paves the way for future markets and capabilities. Together, these partnerships accelerate advancements in lunar exploration, space-based energy, and in-orbit manufacturing, creating a foundation for a thriving, sustainable space economy that benefits humanity as a whole.
This partnership will be executed in two phases, starting with three 90-minute workshops in February and March to enhance companies’ understanding of the space economy and the U.S. market as well as prepare the Japanese delegation for Space Foundation’s 40th.
Participants in these workshops will gain a comprehensive understanding of the evolving space economy, the U.S. space market, and the critical verticals shaping the industry. Through expert-led sessions, they will explore funding landscapes, including government and private capital opportunities, and learn how to navigate prime and sub-contractor relationships effectively. Additionally, participants will master the art of networking and communication, with insights into engaging stakeholders, building lasting relationships, and delivering impactful presentations tailored to specific audiences. With a focus on practical strategies and expert insights, these workshops equip attendees with the framework to thrive in the dynamic global space industry and navigate.
“Strengthening international collaboration is key to unlocking the full potential of Japan’s space industry. Partnering with Space Foundation allows us to build a robust and enduring framework for supporting Japanese companies in expanding their presence in the United States. Together, we aim to foster innovation, drive business opportunities, and create new pathways for global cooperation in the dynamically evolving space sector,” said Shinichi Nakasuka, president of cross U.
Japan’s space sector blends established industrial strengths with burgeoning innovation. Core capabilities include advanced materials, precision manufacturing, and launch technologies. A growing wave of startups focuses on satellite data, in-space tech, and sustainable propulsion. The sector’s expansion is fueled by strong commercialization, notably in data utilization and satellite infrastructure. Established technology giants are integrating into the ecosystem, bringing diverse expertise. The sector demonstrates a keen interest in indigenous launch capabilities and various in-orbit services. There is an emphasis on sustainable and commercially viable ventures. Increased government support for both security and commercialization drives the sector’s growth. Japan’s space landscape demonstrates a collaborative, technologically deep, and ambitious approach. This positions Japan as a significant player in the global space arena.
For Japan’s space sector to reach its full potential, expanding into the global market is essential. The U.S. space market, the largest and most influential, offers tremendous opportunities but also presents challenges. Space Symposium plays a critical role in this process, serving as a hub for collaboration across industries and borders. It provides a platform for countries like Japan to connect with key stakeholders and shape the future of space exploration, science, national security, and commercial innovation. The discussions and partnerships that arise from this global gathering have a lasting impact on economic competitiveness and international diplomacy. Space Foundation is committed to helping Japan and other international partners bridge these gaps through programs designed to integrate them into the U.S. space ecosystem, supporting Japan’s goal of becoming a stronger global space player and driving growth in the sector.
Japanese companies interested in participating in these workshops can learn more at https://www.crossu.org/event/250217i/.
About cross U
cross U is a space industry co-creation platform established in 2022 by Mitsui Fudosan and other players in the space sector with the aim of revitalizing space industries. Business matching is enabled by Mitsui Fudosan’s expertise in the provision of “place” and the creation of “opportunity.” The support system provided by industry, government, and academia, meanwhile, promotes “connections, links, and development” that transcend organizational boundaries among players from diverse industries. cross U aims to revitalize the global space industry from our base in Nihonbashi and promote a sustainable society by using space technology to help solve issues facing the world. Visit https://www.crossu.org/.
About Space Foundation
Space Foundation is a nonprofit organization founded in 1983 as a gateway to unite the global space community and accelerate its growth and success. Space Foundation uniquely educates, collaborates and informs the entire space workforce from early education to college, to the start of their careers as new professionals, and to leaders at the highest levels in government and commercial industry. Driven by partnerships, Space Foundation raises support from corporate members, sponsors, fundraising and grants. Visit Space Foundation at www.SpaceFoundation.org, and follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube.
About Space Commerce Institute
Space Commerce Institute, established in 2022 by Space Foundation, is dedicated to connecting entrepreneurs, companies and countries with the dynamic space economy through information, experience, training, mentorship and consultancy. With jobs, services and markets forecasted for considerable growth, Space Commerce Institute helps partners navigate the evolving mandates from concept to creation to grow businesses. Initiatives study how the space economy and its actors are transitioning around the globe and provide a tangible roadmap to help participants find their place in space. Visit Space Commerce Institute at www.SpaceFoundation.org/sci.
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Tags: Space Foundation, Space Commerce Institute, cross U, Space Symposium, space mentorship, space industry, space commerce, space economy, space technology, space innovation, space ecosystem, space advocate, space exploration, space funding, Japan space industry
Media Contacts:
Rich Cooper
Vice President, Strategic Communications & Outreach
Space Foundation
(202) 596-0714
[email protected]
Dottie O’Rourke
TECHMarket Communications
(650) 344-1260
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