Ripple Funds Japan’s Web3 Future: $200K Grants Aim to Ignite XRP Ledger

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Ripple is taking a strategic leap into Japan’s burgeoning Web3 scene, launching a high-impact grant initiative to empower startups building on the XRP Ledger (XRPL). The program, backed by up to $200,000 per project, is poised to catalyze innovation across DeFi, tokenization, and payments in one of Asia’s most regulation-savvy crypto hubs.

Ripple Unleashes XRPL Innovation Grants in Japan

Ripple, the firm behind the XRP cryptocurrency, has launched a new initiative offering grants of up to $200,000 per Web3 project in Japan. This program is powered by the XRPL Japan & Korea Fund, a sub-initiative under Ripple’s massive 1 billion XRP ecosystem commitment, designed to support the growth of decentralized applications on the XRPL blockchain.

According to Ripple, the fund will fuel early-stage startups that leverage the XRP Ledger for DeFi protocols, real-world asset (RWA) tokenization, and next-gen payments infrastructure. The move aligns with Ripple’s broader mission to boost the utility and adoption of XRPL as a scalable, low-cost blockchain solution.

Strategic Backing from Japanese Authorities and Web3 Groups

Ripple has partnered with Web3 Salon, a Japanese Web3 community initiative supported by the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) and the Asia Web3 Alliance Japan. This collaboration will give selected projects access not only to capital, but also to mentorship, regulatory guidance, investor connections, and technical support.

Web3 Salon XRP XRPL startup funding

In a press statement, Christina Chan, Senior Director at RippleX, said:

“Ripple is proud to collaborate with Web3 Salon to unlock new opportunities in Japan’s thriving startup ecosystem. We’re committed to empowering developers and entrepreneurs building on XRPL.”

The initiative includes a lineup of four major events running through March 2026, including developer workshops, policy roundtables, investor pitch sessions, and community-building forums, designed to elevate the profile of XRPL innovation in the region.

Why Japan? A Fertile Yet Challenging Market

Japan remains one of the most promising yet complex Web3 markets globally. Known for its forward-thinking crypto regulatory framework and active institutional participation, the country is also home to a fast-growing base of developers and blockchain entrepreneurs.

However, navigating Japan’s tight financial oversight, licensing processes, and operational rules can be a major hurdle for new startups. Ripple’s grant program directly addresses these challenges by providing funding and localized support that many founders need to thrive.

XRP Ledger Japan

Hinza Asif, President of the Asia Web3 Alliance Japan, commented:

“Japan is one of the most exciting and challenging markets for Web3 adoption. Ripple’s support will help close the gap for early builders and accelerate XRPL-based innovation.”

XRP Ledger Gains Traction in Japan’s Real Economy

Ripple is not new to Japan. In fact, its partnership with SBI Holdings has already integrated XRP into cross-border remittances, while platforms like Mercari accept XRP payments. In the real estate sector, Japanese firms are increasingly open to accepting XRP for property transactions.

Estimates suggest that over 80% of Japanese banks could adopt RippleNet or XRPL-based payment rails by the end of 2025, highlighting the blockchain’s growing utility in Japan’s traditional financial sector.

With Ripple’s new fund, the firm is clearly doubling down on localized growth, pushing beyond financial institutions to back grassroots blockchain development.

A Catalyst for XRPL’s Next Growth Chapter

The grant program is more than just a financial boost, it’s a strategic play to build a self-sustaining XRPL ecosystem in Asia. By supporting developers at the grassroots level and aligning with government-backed initiatives, Ripple is positioning the XRP Ledger as a go-to platform for regulated blockchain innovation in Japan.

If successful, the ripple effects could inspire similar programs across South Korea and Southeast Asia, where developer interest in XRPL is already on the rise.

FAQs

What is Ripple’s new grant program in Japan?

Ripple is offering up to $200,000 in funding per project for early-stage Web3 startups building on the XRP Ledger in Japan.

Who is eligible to apply?

Startups working on DeFi, tokenization, payments, or other XRPL-based applications in Japan are encouraged to apply via Web3 Salon.

What is the XRPL Japan & Korea Fund?

It is a region-focused segment of Ripple’s broader 1 billion XRP commitment to support ecosystem development on the XRP Ledger.

Why is Ripple focusing on Japan?

Japan has a mature regulatory environment and a high level of institutional crypto adoption, making it ideal for Web3 innovation—despite the barriers to entry.