TOKYO -- The Japanese government is becoming increasingly like a venture investor in space startups, soliciting ideas, making them compete for money and investing in those with the most business potential.
On Sept. 19, the government awarded a total of 10 billion yen ($69 million) in subsidies to three launch startups in the second leg of a three-stage competition. The first leg was held in September 2023, and four launch startups were selected. The last selection is scheduled for April 2026, in which two finalists will be chosen for full subsidies.
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