This week’s Thursday Gathering focuses on innovation in IT and biotechnology. Award-winning IT startups will share their visions, biotech founders will present breakthrough technologies, and top venture capitalists will discuss the future of bio-innovation. The evening also offers networking opportunities with founders, investors, and innovators, along with complimentary drinks in a relaxed atmosphere.
Date and Time: Thursday, Sep. 18, 2025, 16:00 to 20:00
Location: ONE FUKUOKA BLDG. 6F SKYLOBBY
Admission: Free (registration required)
Registration & details are here
Event Highlights (In-person only):
15:55 – 20:00
Networking
Every Thursday Gathering includes dedicated networking time designed to spark collaboration and new opportunities. Enjoy up to three complimentary drinks (beer or soft drinks) while connecting with fellow participants, speakers, and guest experts in a relaxed atmosphere. Stay after the sessions to continue discussions and build new relationships.
More info: In English and Japanese
16:00 – 16:50
WeLove Tenjin presents: RKB Radio Live Event “What’s Okehazama? Returns”
The lively radio program “What’s Okehazama?” comes to Thursday Gathering for a special live edition! Hosted by Erena Sakamoto, Masanori Hashimoto, and Kotaro Take, the show will welcome guest Sachi Nishizaki, an entrepreneur who turned her knack for organization into a business. Expect energetic banter, insights into Nishizaki’s journey, and a look at her “Okehazama” – the pivotal moments shaping her future. A rare chance to see your favorite radio personalities live on stage!
More info: In Japanese
17:00 – 17:50
F★PITCH – IT Edition
Hosted by Global Connect Fukuoka, this startup pitch event supports funding and business matching for IT innovators. This session highlights award-winning companies from Fukuoka’s IT industry initiatives, offering a first-hand look at the future of digital innovation.
Pitching companies:
• eatas Inc. – CEO Etsuko Teshima
• pono Inc. – CEO Chie Ushijima
• AnyCarry Inc. – CEO Hidenobu Kosaki
• BEAGLE Inc. – CEO Nobumichi Shinohara
• Eletus Inc. – CEO Masatoshi Sonoda (online)
More info: In Japanese
17:00 – 17:15
How to Enjoy Thursday Gathering
New to Thursday Gathering? This short, interactive session introduces the community, its mission, and the meaning of connecting through Venture Café Fukuoka’s weekly flagship event. A perfect entry point for first-time visitors.
More info: In Japanese & English
18:00 – 19:30
F★PITCH – BIO Edition
Five pioneering biotech startups take the stage to share their technologies and visions for the future. Following the pitches, leading venture capitalists and industry experts will join a panel discussion on the global future of bio-innovation. An unmissable chance to meet founders, investors, and peers in life sciences.
Pitching companies:
• Bridge Core Kyushu Inc.
• Walkable Future Inc.
• Chiral Inc.
• Hynts Tech Inc.
• HaKaL Inc.
Panel discussion with:
• Atsushi Usami, Partner, The University of Tokyo Edge Capital Partners (UTEC)
• Hikaru Saito, Partner, Saisei Ventures
• Aya Sasaki, Manager, FFG Venture Business Partners
• Mika Gushima, Senior Associate, QB Capital LLC
• Akihiko Soyama, Executive Director, LINK-J (Moderator)
More info: In Japanese
Organized by: Venture Café Fukuoka
Languages: Japanese and/or English (varies by session)
All sessions are in-person only. Pre-registration required via the event website.