Joshua Flannery
Founder & CEO at Innovation Dojo
Joshua Flannery is a prominent figure in the innovation ecosystem, bridging Japan and Australia. As the Founder and CEO of Innovation Dojo Japan, he has been instrumental in creating a diverse pipeline of tech and talent, supporting over 226 startups in its first year. Joshua's career spans leadership roles in both public and private sectors, including serving as the Lead Director for the Sydney Startup Hub and as the architect of the University of New South Wales’ startup programs. His work has significantly contributed to UNSW's reputation as a leading university for entrepreneurs in the Asia-Pacific region.Joshua's expertise extends to mentoring science-based ventures at Osaka University and advising Japanese corporates on startup engagement strategies. He is also an Adjunct Professor in Global Entrepreneurship at Kansai University of International Studies and an Official Startup Recommender for METI Kinki’s J-Startup Kansai initiative. His leadership in corporate innovation and venture building is evident through his roles with Rainmaking Japan and the establishment of the FounderLab venture studio with Microsoft.Joshua holds an MBA in Technology from AGSM @ UNSW Business School and has completed various certifications, including the Lean LaunchPad for Incubators/Accelerators and the Sake Professional Course. His contributions to the startup ecosystem are recognized through numerous publications and his active participation in industry forums and committees.
In their own words
From Joshua Flannery discusses the key differences between Australia and Japan’s startup ecosystems · The History of the Australian Startup Ecosystem - Interview SeriesPeople confuse listening with waiting for the other person to stop talking so they can speak.
Career
- Now Founder & CEO · Innovation Dojo
- Earlier Lead Director · Sydney Startup Hub
- Earlier First hire, startup programs · University of New South Wales (UNSW)
- Earlier · Startup Led Japan expansion · Rainmaking
- Earlier Employee · NSW Government
Sources: innovationdojo.com.au
Key moments
Jump straight to the part of Joshua Flannery discusses the key differences between Australia and Japan’s startup ecosystems you want.
- 0:31 Meet Joshua Flannery
- 0:54 Joshua's Early Involvement in the Startup Ecosystem
- 2:30 The Ecosystem in 2012
- 6:12 Role of Director at Sydney Startup Hub
- 9:47 History and Importance of Sydney Startup Hub
- 13:20 Comparison Between Australia and Japan's Ecosystems
- 17:44 Advice for New Founders
- 19:52 Final Thoughts on Global Perspective in Startups
Heard on
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▶ Innovation Dojo on Day One
Innovation Dojo Japan is a company dedicated to accelerating innovation by supporting startups, entrepreneurs, corporations, and universities. 1 person · 2 episodes → Connections
Adam SpencerHost, Documentary: The History Of The Australian Startup Ecosystem
Simon ThomsenEditor, Startup Daily
Tim BoyleCEO, LifeSciences Australia, LifeSciences Australia
David BurtDirector of Entrepreneurship, UNSW Founders
Rachel YangPartner, Giant Leap Fund
Sarah PearsonFormer Chancellor, University of New England, University of New England (UNE)
Bruce TullochDirector of Intelligent Systems, Mayman Aerospace, Mayman Aerospace
Cheryl MackCEO & Co-founder, Aussie Angels, Aussie Angels Spot something wrong? Suggest a correction Updated 25 September 2026
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