INSPIRE INNOVATION
A one-stop, tailored, end-to-end partner for Japanese life sciences innovators to realize their global ambitions
Unlocking Japan’s Untapped Global Potential
Japan is uniquely positioned to become a global leader in life sciences innovation. The country boasts world-class research (e.g., Nobel Prizes in immunotherapy and regenerative medicine), and benefits from an aging population that generates extensive health data. Japan has also demonstrated strong commercial capabilities, ranking second globally for FDA-approved new drugs between 2011 and 2020, and producing blockbuster therapies like Opdivo and Enhertu
Beyond pharmaceuticals, Japan offers significant potential to repurpose adjacent technologies (e.g., robotics and advanced materials) for healthcare applications, leveraging its broad technological strengths
However, despite this strong foundation, Japanese innovators face systemic barriers in accessing the U.S.—the largest and most competitive life sciences market, accounting for over 50% of global value. Limited in terms of the number of startups, funding, and global success cases reflect a gap in tailored U.S. market strategy and support.
Q Partners was created to change that.
We were founded in Washington, DC by two professionals with deep roots in both the U.S. and Japan, united by a shared belief: Japan’s life sciences potential is vast—and with the right partner, it can thrive on the global stage.
The “Q” in our name represents our commitment to asking the right Questions and pursuing only Quintessential opportunities that drive value, rather than just scale. It also reflects the kanji ‘久’—shared by both founders’ names—symbolizing our dedication to creating long-term impact.
A Seamless Support System Rooted in Entrepreneurial Needs
Q Partners provides an integrated, flexible, and personal approach designed specifically for Japanese innovators entering the U.S. market.
Brainstorming Partner
We act as a strategic sounding board—working through your vision, key questions, hypotheses, and solution
First Call
When you’re at a crossroads or facing a challenge, we’re your go-to resource with timely, actionable insights tailored to your needs
Community Curator and Matchmaker
We foster ecosystems where shared values spark innovation – connecting vision, technology, talent, and capital
Meet the Founders
Miho Sakuma (Founding Partner, President)
Former Associate Partner at McKinsey & Company in the Life Sciences Practice, Miho brings strategic consulting experience with a practical edge. She holds an MBA from Harvard Business School and is known for driving tangible outcomes for life sciences leaders navigating complex markets
Dr. Sachiko Kuno (Senior Partner)
A trailblazing biotech and social entrepreneur, Dr. Kuno is the founder groundbreaking ventures such as Sucampo, R-Tech Ueno, and VLP Therapeutics. She is also the visionary behind social innovation platforms like Halcyon and toberu. With a Ph.D. from Kyoto University, she combines scientific excellence with deep entrepreneurial impact.
What sets us apart
End-to-End, Tailored Support
We meet you where you are and walk with you every step of the way
Deep U.S.–Japan Expertise
10+ years of hands-on experience in life sciences across both countries
Proven Track Record
From drug development to commercialization, our team has worked across the pharmaceutical value chain
Fully Bilingual & Culturally Fluent
No language barriers, no cultural missteps— communication that builds trust and drives results.
Contact Us
Email: contact@qpartnersdc.com