Get an unfiltered look at startup life in Fukuoka, hear fresh pitches from emerging ventures, and pick up practical digital marketing skills. This week’s Thursday Gathering brings together candid conversation, startup support, and community connection in one dynamic evening.
Date and Time: Thursday, April 16, 2026, 16:00 to 20:00
Location: ONE FUKUOKA BLDG. 6F SKY LOBBY
Admission: Free (registration required)
Registration & details: Event website (Japanese)
Event Highlights (In-person only):
16:00 – 16:50
Bar Mega Ayana: Zero to One Night Talk Live Recording
Why do founders keep pushing forward in this environment? This live recording of the podcast Bar Mega Ayana takes place at Thursday Gathering and explores the realities of startup life through candid conversations with entrepreneurs and the people who support them. Expect honest stories, behind-the-scenes struggles, and insights that rarely make it into a press release, along with inspiration for your own next challenge.
16:00 – 20:00
Networking
Thursday Gathering’s networking time runs throughout the event, creating opportunities for new conversations, collaborations, and business connections. Participants can enjoy up to three free beers or soft drinks in a relaxed setting while meeting fellow attendees, session speakers, and guests. It is also a valuable chance to continue discussions after sessions and make new connections across industries.
17:00 – 17:15
How to Enjoy Thursday Gathering
New to Venture Café Fukuoka? This interactive session introduces Thursday Gathering, Venture Café Fukuoka’s signature weekly event. Learn more about the community, its mission, and the value of meaningful connections, along with tips on how to make the most of the experience.
17:30 – 18:20
F★Pitch: Global Connect Fukuoka Pitch Event Part 1
F★Pitch is a pitch event hosted by Global Connect Fukuoka, the first startup support hub established by Fukuoka Prefecture. Bringing together startups and supporters from inside and outside the prefecture, the program is designed to accelerate fundraising opportunities and business matching. With appearances by venture capital firms, accelerators, and other key supporters, F★Pitch serves as a core platform for building new connections in the region’s startup ecosystem.
18:30 – 19:20
Facebook Ads for Beginners
Held in the sub-session area beside REC COFFEE, this beginner-friendly workshop offers a practical introduction to advertising on Meta platforms, including Facebook and Instagram. Designed for those with little to no digital advertising experience, it covers campaign structure, objectives, budgeting, targeting, and common mistakes to avoid. Participants will leave with a clear understanding of how Meta ads work and how to launch a first campaign step by step.
18:30 – 19:30
F★Pitch: Global Connect Fukuoka Pitch Event Part 2
The second half of F★Pitch continues the spotlight on startups and the supporters helping them grow. Hosted by Global Connect Fukuoka, this session deepens the focus on fundraising, partnerships, and ecosystem building by connecting founders with venture capital firms, accelerators, and other players driving innovation forward in Fukuoka and beyond.
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.