How can design, innovation, and entrepreneurship drive sustainability? This week’s Thursday Gathering highlights inspiring initiatives in carbon-neutral business and women’s leadership in Fukuoka. Join us for an evening of ideas that are shaping a greener and more inclusive future.
Date and Time: Thursday, Nov. 6, 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
Each Thursday Gathering features dedicated networking time with up to three complimentary drinks (beer or soft drinks). Meet speakers, entrepreneurs, and fellow attendees in a relaxed, open setting designed to spark new ideas, partnerships, and collaborations.
More info : In English and Japanese
16:00 – 16:50
University × Industry Collaboration for a Sustainable Future – Shaping Change with Kyushu University BeCAT
Celebrating its fifth anniversary, Kyushu University’s BeCAT (Built Environment Collaborative Architectural Team) has been pioneering experimental and practical projects in Itoshima, integrating cutting-edge research to address real-world challenges through architecture. This session invites participants to explore new forms of collaboration that connect education with practice, and to discuss what sustainable co-creation between academia and business can look like.
More info : In Japanese
16:00 – 16:50
Smart Asset Building with Corporate 401(k)-Style Retirement Plans
Inspired by the U.S. 401(k) model, Japan’s corporate defined contribution pension system is gaining attention as a tool for smarter asset formation. This seminar offers a clear, practical introduction to the latest retirement investment options for executives and HR professionals at startups and growing companies. From personal investment programs like iDeCo and NISA to implementing your own corporate DC plan, discover strategies to enhance both employee and executive financial well-being while improving financial literacy across your organization.
More info : In Japanese
17:30 – 18:20
Decarbonization Business Pitch in Fukuoka
The City of Fukuoka supports companies with certified environmental initiatives under the Carbon Neutral Contribution Program, promoting sustainable business growth and market expansion. This session introduces local companies tackling decarbonization from diverse angles—technology, recycling, food innovation, and waste management.
Featured Presentations:
Fukuoka City – “Decarbonization Business × Corporate Growth”
Exploring how a growing global decarbonization market presents opportunities for proactive local companies.
Total Care System – “Recycling Used Diapers for CO2 Reduction and Environmental Education”
A pioneering 20-year project from Ōmuta City turning used diapers into a recycling resource while reducing emissions and educating communities.
Uwamuki – “Soycle and the Future of Food”
From “sprinkle-on protein” to sustainable meat alternatives, Soycle promotes an eco-friendly diet and awareness through everyday meals.
Green Prop – “Waste Management Support That Keeps Businesses Moving”
A service that helps companies improve compliance, reduce risks, and streamline industrial waste operations.
More info: In Japanese
18:30 – 18:50
Taking the First Step into the “Space × Business” Frontier from Fukuoka
Space is no longer the exclusive realm of national agencies or aerospace giants—it’s fast becoming a dynamic arena where anyone with vision and innovation can participate. This session explores the expanding possibilities of the space business, from satellite technologies to everyday applications driving new markets on Earth.
JAXA and Kyushu Mirai Kyoso’s Shunsaku Kamimura will explain what defines the “space business,” how it connects to new business creation, and how non-space industries can discover opportunities in this growing sector.
Then, the Fukuoka Prefecture Space Business Team will introduce regional initiatives, including the Fukuoka Space Business Research Association and the Space Business Promoter program—efforts aimed at fostering collaboration and accelerating space industry development in Kyushu.
Discover how Fukuoka is positioning itself as a launchpad for new space-driven ventures!
More info: In Japanese
18:30 – 19:20
Fukuoka Women’s University Leadership Center: Pitch & Alumni Networking
The Women’s Leadership Center fosters the growth of women who lead toward a sustainable society. This session features final presentations from graduates of the Advanced Program and a networking event for alumni of the Recurrent Program.
“Meeting old and new friends gives us strength for tomorrow.”
Reunite, connect, and share your next career steps in a warm, community-driven atmosphere.
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.