From global-local collaboration to open innovation and the future of music-driven cities, this week’s Thursday Gathering delivers ideas that span development, energy, and culture. Join changemakers, industry leaders, and creative thinkers for an evening of insights and connection.
Date and Time: Thursday, July 24, 2025, 15:30 to 20:00
Location: ONE FUKUOKA BLDG. 6F SKYLOBBY
Admission: Free (registration required)
Registration & details are here
Event Highlights (In-person only):
15:30 – 16:20
Global × Local: Co-Creating Innovation (Part 1)
Innovation is key to building a sustainable future, and collaboration between global and local players is driving major progress. In this first session, two distinguished speakers share insights into new trends, historical context, and real-world initiatives shaping the future of innovation in Japan and beyond.
More info
In Japanese
Speakers:
• Masashi Tomita, Executive Director, Fukuoka City Economy, Tourism & Culture Bureau
• Shinichi Tanaka, Senior Director, JICA Planning Department
16:30 – 17:20
Global × Local: Co-Creating Innovation (Part 2)
What does it take to create social innovation through business—spanning education, welfare, and green technology? Hear from three Kyushu-based entrepreneurs as they discuss the realities of scaling impact-driven ventures from local roots to global reach.
More info
In Japanese
Panelists:
• Sayuri Ogino, CEO, Kyoiku Joho Service
• Kosei Kawazoe, CEO, Liaison Design
• Ryoji Miyawaki, CEO, Aakel Technologies
Moderator: Miwa Gen, CEO, SPRINK Inc.
17:30 – 18:20
Kyuden Reverse Pitch: Open Innovation Opportunities
Kyuden Group is taking open innovation to the next level with its program “Hirameki & Co-Creation.” This info session includes a rare reverse pitch—where Kyuden’s business leaders present their innovation needs and partnership opportunities across 11 sectors, from renewable energy to ICT and community co-creation. Don’t miss this chance to explore collaboration possibilities with one of Kyushu’s leading enterprises.
More info
In Japanese
18:30 – 20:30
Music as Urban Infrastructure: Building a Music City in Fukuoka
How can music shape the future of cities? Shain Shapiro, founder of global consultancy Sound Diplomacy and author of Music Cities: Creating Music Ecosystems and Urban Policies, joins local experts for a conversation on integrating music into urban policy and economic development. From young musicians to venue owners and cultural leaders, this session invites all who care about Fukuoka’s creative future.
More info
In Japanese
Speakers:
• Shain Shapiro (Sound Diplomacy)
• Kei Wakabayashi (Kokucho-sha)
• Takahiro Saito (Attorney, Japan Nighttime Economy Association)
• Kenjiro Fukamachi (Fukuoka Music City Council)
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.
