This week’s Gathering highlights accessibility innovation, investor insights from JAFCO, and high-potential startup pitches. Whether you’re a founder, urban designer, or simply curious, there’s something for you.
The event is free to attend, but registration is required.
Date and Time: Thursday, June 19, 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):
16:00 – 16:50
Café JAFCO
Join JAFCO, Japan’s oldest private venture capital firm, for a casual talk on their role in today’s uncertain society. Principal Tomoyasu Suzuki shares insights into the type of entrepreneurs JAFCO supports and how they work behind the scenes to help startups grow.
More info
17:00 – 17:15
How to Enjoy Thursday Gathering
New to Venture Café? This short intro session explains how Thursday Gatherings work and how to connect with Fukuoka’s innovation community.
More info
17:00 – 18:00
[ONLINE] Discover CIC Fukuoka & Startup Visa
Learn how to apply for the Startup Visa and explore CIC Fukuoka’s new space during this online session, co-hosted with Fukuoka City. A great opportunity for international founders looking to connect and grow in Japan.
Speakers: Shun Klinger (Fukuoka City), Kei Shimizu, Hazuki Nakano (CIC Fukuoka)
More info
17:30 – 18:20
Designing Cities for All: Fukuoka’s Barrier-Free Revolution
Explore how Fukuoka is building a more accessible city. Experts and advocates share practical insights from inclusive sidewalk design to new digital tools like Divers Map. This session looks at the future of urban mobility through real-world examples and research.
More info
18:30 – 19:30
F★Pitch – Global Connect Fukuoka Pitch Event
A startup showcase hosted by Global Connect Fukuoka. Hear live pitches from entrepreneurs tackling challenges in education, eldercare, tech, and finance. Meet VCs and accelerators driving the next wave of innovation.
Speakers include:
• Tatsuo Kawanami, PECOFREE
• Yoshiro Tanaka, Trinity Technology
• Tatsuya Koitabashi, Minato Investment
• Eihiro Saishu, Groovenauts, Inc.
• Shoko Nakahashi, Fukuoka CXO Bank
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.
