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This week’s Thursday Gathering spotlights founders, innovators, and next-generation business leaders shaping the future of Fukuoka’s startup ecosystem. Featuring the F★Pitch program, the evening explores traditional business transformation, emerging startups, and global innovation perspectives.
Date and Time: Thursday, March 19, 2026, 16:00 to 20:00
Location: ONE FUKUOKA BLDG. 6F SKYLOBBY
Admission: Free (registration required)
Registration & details: Event website (Japanese)
Event Highlights (In-person only):
16:05 – 16:35
The Journey of Yatsuhashi: Tradition and the Future
Kanako Suzuka, President of Shogoin Yatsuhashi Sohonten, shares how she is guiding the 300-year-old Kyoto confectionery company into a new era. From launching the modern “nikiniki” brand to reimagining a historic product for today’s market, the talk explores innovation within long-established businesses.
More info: Japanese
16:40 – 17:30
Atotsugi & Sasshin Venture Program – Results Presentation
This session presents outcomes from the Atotsugi & Sasshin Venture Support Program, which helps small and medium-sized businesses launch new ventures using existing resources or by entering new fields. Discover how participating companies are developing new business models and driving regional innovation.
More info: Japanese
17:40 – 18:20
When Ecosystems Move: Fukuoka’s Innovation Moment
Tim Rowe, Founder and Executive Chairman of CIC (Cambridge Innovation Center) and Chair of Venture Café Global Institute, shares insights on how startup ecosystems grow and connect globally. Drawing on experience from Kendall Square and other global innovation hubs, he examines Fukuoka’s current position and its potential for future growth.
More info: Japanese
18:25 – 19:00
ISSIN Startup Acceleration Program – Demo Presentations
Meet four startups from the Fukuoka Prefecture Startup Acceleration Program “ISSIN.” Presentations include AI-powered solar energy optimization (Tensor Energy), AI-based ESG analysis (aiESG), rapid on-site diagnostic technology for infectious diseases and environmental risks (HaKaL), and AI and quantum computing services through the MAGELLAN BLOCKS platform (Groovenauts).
More info: Japanese
19:00 – 20:00
Networking Reception
Meet founders, investors, and ecosystem leaders and continue the conversation over drinks.
Participation fee: ¥3,000 (advance registration required).
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.