Discover how Kyushu innovators are addressing Japan’s aging society through university-led startups—then unwind with a one-night-only conversation between two of Fukuoka’s top coffee roasters.
Date and Time: Thursday, Nov. 13, 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 includes dedicated networking time, with up to three complimentary drinks (beer or soft drinks). Meet speakers, entrepreneurs, and fellow attendees in a relaxed environment designed to spark conversation and collaboration.
More info: In English and Japanese
16:00 – 16:50
KSLab Vol.2: Care x Startups x University (Kyushu Institute of Technology) — The Future Starts Here
Japan’s care industry is expanding rapidly, projected to exceed ¥20 trillion by 2040, yet faces a shortage of more than 600,000 caregivers. KSLab’s Kyushu hub—driven by HAMIQ (Kyushu Healthcare Industry Promotion Council)—supports care-focused startups through collaborations across 14 hospitals and care facilities in the region.
This session highlights Kyushu Institute of Technology’s initiatives to launch university-origin ventures tackling challenges in elderly care. Hear from faculty, student teams, and researchers working at the intersection of robotics, AI, and welfare technology.
Program:
• 16:00–16:10: The Future Starts Here – University Startups x Regional Innovation – Prof. Tomohiro Shibata, Kyushu Institute of Technology
• 16:10–16:20: Developing an Autonomous Support Robot with AI for Monitoring Care Environments – Team “Sabotics”
• 16:20–16:30: Creating with the Field, Right Away! Building an Ecosystem for Rapid Social Implementation – Student Project “Sugu Tsukuru-ka”
• 16:30–16:40: Social Implementation of University Technology in Welfare Fields – Researcher Kakeru Yamasaki
• 16:40–16:50: Panel Discussion
More info : In Japanese
17:00 – 17:15
How to Enjoy Thursday Gathering
A short interactive orientation introducing the mission of Thursday Gathering, its community spirit, and tips for making the most of your experience. Highly recommended for newcomers.
More info : In English & Japanese
17:00 – 18:00
Beat Inflation and Taxes! Practical Wealth-Building with DC, iDeCo & NISA
Relying on savings alone is risky. Learn how to build assets that can withstand rising prices and taxes using Japan’s DC, iDeCo, and NISA systems. This intensive 50-minute session breaks down the latest rules, strategies for long-term, diversified investing, and common pitfalls to avoid. Includes age-based allocation examples, payout strategies, and practical guidance on corporate DC reviews and switching.
More info : In Japanese
17:30 – 18:20
The Story Beyond the Cup – REC COFFEE & Tokado Coffee on the Spirit of Specialty Coffee
REC COFFEE and Tokado Coffee—two icons of Fukuoka’s vibrant coffee culture—come together for their first-ever public dialogue inside ONE FUKUOKA BLDG. From cultivation and trade to brewing and serving, they’ll share the stories behind each cup and the philosophies that shape their craft.
A one-night-only event exclusive to ONE FUKUOKA BLDG—perfect for coffee lovers and globally minded professionals alike.
More info: In Japanese
18:30 – 19:00
English You Can Use Today! Mastering Small Talk at Startup Conferences
Many in Fukuoka still struggle to respond naturally when approached in English. This hands-on session helps participants overcome hesitation and start communicating confidently at international events. GxPartners’ Mr. Kishihara recreates his startup conference English workshop, joined by communication design researcher Alice Balle, to share simple, practical tips for real-world English interactions.
More info: In English & Japanese
19:00 – 19:40
The Future of D&I in Japanese Society – Insights from APU
Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APU) in Beppu, home to students from over 100 countries, celebrates its 25th anniversary this year. Under the theme Leap Beyond Global, APU continues to drive diversity and inclusion (D&I) as a foundation for social change. This session explores APU’s experiences in fostering inclusive communities, featuring APU alumni now active in Fukuoka.
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.
