Ripple has announced a collaboration with Web3 Salon, a project supported by the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), to empower early-stage Japanese blockchain startups. The initiative will focus on projects utilizing the XRP Ledger, prioritizing those focusing on decentralized finance (DeFi), digital payments, and tokenization. With funding from Ripple’s dedicated XRPL Japan and Korea Fund, each startup will receive $200,000 over the next year. The collaboration offers startups access to Ripple’s global network of partners, building upon Ripple’s long-standing presence in Japan. The company has a history of success with ventures like SBI Holdings and HashKey DX, which have fostered blockchain innovation within Japan.