Exploring diversity-driven innovation and cross-border startup collaboration between Japan and Thailand.
This week’s Thursday Gathering combines an academic perspective on DEI as a competitive business strategy with an international startup pitch event featuring emerging companies from Bangkok. Learn how inclusive management strengthens innovation in the AI era, then connect with global founders looking to expand into Japan.
Date and Time: Thursday, February 5, 2026, 16:00 to 20:30
Location: ONE FUKUOKA BLDG. 6F SKYLOBBY
Admission: Free (registration required)
Registration & details: Available online (Japanese)
Event Highlights (In-person only):
16:00 – 20:00
Networking (All Day)
A core feature of every Thursday Gathering, this all-day networking program creates space for meaningful business connections and new collaborations. Enjoy up to three free drinks (beer or soft drinks) while connecting with fellow participants in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. It’s also a great chance to meet session speakers and guest presenters directly, continue conversations after talks, and spark new ideas through spontaneous discussions.
More info: Japanese
16:00 – 16:50
APU x DEI: Diversity, Equity & Inclusion as a Competitive Strategy
DEI is often misunderstood as a values-driven or welfare-oriented initiative. In reality, it is a proven management approach that enhances innovation, competitiveness, and long-term growth—particularly in the AI era.
In this session, Associate Professor Hirahara from APU’s College of International Management presents insights from leading management research, explaining how DEI contributes directly to corporate value and competitive advantage. The talk also covers practical considerations and common pitfalls when implementing DEI within organizations.
More info: Japanese
17:00 – 17:15
How to Enjoy Thursday Gathering
An interactive introduction to Venture Café Fukuoka’s signature weekly event, Thursday Gathering. This short session explains how the community works, its mission, and why meaningful human connection is at the heart of everything we do. Held every week, it’s especially recommended for first-time attendees or anyone curious about how to make the most of the Thursday Gathering experience.
More info: Japanese
17:30 – 20:30
Fukuoka–Bangkok Startup Exchange Program: GLOBAL CONNECT (SPARK) DAY
Marking 20 years of friendship between Fukuoka Prefecture and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, nine high-potential Thai startups visit Fukuoka with ambitions to enter the Japanese market.
This pitch-focused networking event connects startups with local financial institutions, investors, and companies seeking international collaboration. Many participating teams already have experience working with Japanese firms, making this a valuable opportunity for meaningful business matching.
The event is ideal for those interested in overseas startup trends, collaboration with Thai companies, and innovation across fields such as DX, marketing tech, deep tech, healthcare, XR, and sustainability.
Languages: Japanese & English (with interpretation)
More info: 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.
