XRP News Today: Ripple Invests $1 Billion in Japan Blockchain Startups

Ripple has announced a significant initiative to support early-stage blockchain startups in Japan. The company is providing grants of up to $200,000 each to projects that are being developed using the XRP Ledger (XRPL). This initiative is part of Ripple’s $1 billion XRP Fund and is backed by both public and private sectors in Japan, including the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO).

The grants are aimed at fostering innovation in the blockchain space, particularly in areas such as decentralized finance (DeFi), real-world asset tokenization (RWA), and digital payments. Startups selected for the grants will not only receive financial backing but also benefit from Ripple’s extensive global network of investors, partners, and customers. The selection criteria for the grants include strong growth potential, high technical sophistication, and a clear application built on or integrated with the XRP Ledger.

In addition to the grants, Ripple will co-host four major Web3 events with Web3 Salon through March 2026. These events will include startup pitch showcases, fireside chats with global thought leaders, networking sessions, and educational deep dives on various topics related to blockchain technology. The events are designed to promote leading startups and intensify the conversation between public bodies and private sector innovators.

Japan was chosen for this initiative due to its clear and structured crypto regulation, which provides a stable environment for Web3 entrepreneurs. The Financial Services Agency (FSA) has set a good precedent for crypto exchanges and token environments, attracting serious builders who seek long-term stability. However, the structured regulatory environment can also present challenges, which is why the contribution of JETRO and the Asia Web3 Alliance Japan is critical in assisting startups with regulation and bureaucracy.

Ripple’s investment in Japan’s developer ecosystem is part of its wider push across Asia. The company has enhanced XRPL-underpinned remittance networks throughout Southeast Asia, formed strategic partnerships in South Korea and the Philippines, and gained regulatory clarity for XRP usage in countries like Singapore and Dubai. This initiative in Japan is expected to create vibrant, homegrown innovation and serve as a springboard for bringing the XRPL into Asia.

The industry has reacted positively to Ripple’s move. Hinza Asif, President of the Asia Web3 Alliance Japan, described Japan as one of the most exciting and challenging markets for Web3. He noted that the partnership strengthens the bridge between global innovation and local infrastructure. Christina Chan, RippleX Senior Director, emphasized the long-term goal of fueling innovation and supporting the next generation of leaders.

While many global crypto companies are scaling back amid market volatility, Ripple’s deep-rooted investment in Japan suggests a confident, long-term bet on Asia’s crypto future. The focus on regulatory clarity and real-world use cases is expected to define the winners in this rapidly evolving landscape.