Innovation, community, and culture under one roof in the heart of Tenjin
CIC Fukuoka, the region’s first full-scale international innovation center, officially opened this April—marking a major milestone for Fukuoka’s startup ecosystem. Now, on Thursday, June 5, the doors will open wide for one day only, inviting the public inside for a dynamic program of talks, performances, networking, and a first-hand look at what this new hub is all about. Hang on—there’s a lot to see and experience.
Located on the 6th and 7th floors of the ONE FUKUOKA BLDG. in central Tenjin, CIC Fukuoka is part of the global Cambridge Innovation Center network, which now spans 10 cities worldwide. The grand opening event doubles as a special edition of the weekly Thursday Gathering, offering a rich blend of business, creativity, and community in true CIC style. If you’ve never been to a CIC event, this is the perfect one to start with—and if you have, then you already know: this is one not to miss.
Opening Act – 15:00 to 16:00 (Invite-only & Media | Also streamed online)
The event kicks off with a formal ceremony featuring remarks from government officials and industry leaders, including a video message from Masaaki Taira, Japan’s Minister for Digital Affairs, with expected appearances by Fukuoka Governor Seitaro Hattori and Fukuoka Mayor Soichiro Takashima.
CIC President Denyse Medlenka and CIC Japan Chair Takaaki Umezawa will welcome guests, joined by representatives from Nishitetsu, CDIB Capital Innovation Advisors Corporation, and Sakana AI, among others, for a symbolic bell-ringing ceremony marking the start of a new chapter for innovation in Kyushu.
This session also includes a live, English-language panel featuring researchers and executives from CDIB, CHA Bio, Sakana AI, and Kyushu University, offering fresh perspectives on how Fukuoka is emerging as a gateway between Japan and the global innovation economy.
Open Campus – 16:00 to 20:00 (last entry 19:30 – Open to the public)
From 4pm, the public is invited to explore CIC Fukuoka’s open campus. Visitors can enjoy specialty coffee tastings by REC COFFEE, tour the newly opened spaces, and mingle with the tenants and startups already bringing the center to life.
At 5pm, a casual community meet-up begins—typically reserved for members but open to all for this special occasion. Around 6pm, don’t miss a live flower performance by floral artist Ryota Hagiwara, who blends tradition and artistry with a contemporary edge. In fact, every guest is invited to contribute to the final arrangement, which will remain on display at CIC Fukuoka. A rare chance to quite literally leave your mark on this new space.
Thursday Gathering – 16:00 to 20:00 @ 6F SKYLOBBY
Running alongside the open campus is a special edition of Thursday Gathering, hosted at the SKYLOBBY. This week’s theme highlights the intersection of innovation and culture, with a lively mix of music, talks, and startup pitches.
It begins with Soundscape Fukuoka, a session exploring the future of music and city identity, featuring a live performance by BOKEH (YOHLU) and commentary from Kenjiro Fukamachi of the Fukuoka Music City Council and CIC Japan’s Takaaki Umezawa.
Next, How to Enjoy Thursday Gathering, an introductory talk by Minako Hirata (GM, CIC Tokyo) and Ryusuke Komura (Executive Director, Venture Café Tokyo), welcomes newcomers into the CIC and Venture Café community.
At 5:30pm, the focus shifts to startups with CIC Pitch!—a rapid-fire pitching session featuring entrepreneurs from Japan and abroad. Presenters include Butlr Technologies, SignTime, xMap, and more. Judges include investors from GxPartners LLP, MCP Asset Management, and the GRC Venture Fund.
This is followed by an introduction to Fukuoka Growth Next, and then a keynote talk by Koichi Hayashida, President of Nishitetsu, sharing the long-term vision for the ONE FUKUOKA BLDG.
To close the evening, a panel discussion titled “Kyushu to Global” will explore how deeptech and university-led innovation are shaping the region’s future. Panelists include leaders from QB Capital, Kyushu Institute of Technology (Kyutech), Toy Medical, and the CIC Institute.
Startup DJs and Athlete Bar – 6F SKYLOBBY
Adding a social vibe to the evening, startup members from Fukuoka will take over the DJ booth for an informal lounge session. Meanwhile, REC COFFEE transforms into a pop-up Athlete Bar, where you can chat with former professional athletes including:
• Takashi Kikutani (former Japan Rugby captain)
• Masahiro Tsuiki (former Japan Rugby sevens captain)
• Yoshiyuki Fujiki (former rugby coach)
• Kazuya Murata (former J.League footballer)
• Kayono Maeda (former national team track cyclist)
This special activation is held in collaboration with the Athlete Wellbeing Association.
Why It Matters
This event isn’t just for tech insiders. It’s a showcase of the international, interdisciplinary energy that CIC is bringing to Fukuoka. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, investor, researcher, artist, or simply curious about the city’s future, June 5 offers a unique chance to experience the people, ideas, and creativity driving Fukuoka forward. See you there!
Details
Date: Thursday, June 5, 2025
Time: 15:00–20:00
Venue: ONE FUKUOKA BLDG. – 6F SKYLOBBY & 7F CIC Fukuoka
Format: In-person and online
Admission: Free (note: some sessions are invite-only)
Registration & Details:
https://venturecafefukuoka.org/event/cic-fukuoka-opening-campus-opening-event-rsvp-comoing-soon
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