From cross-border student startup pitches to practical AI, corporate innovation, and community networking, this edition of Thursday Gathering brings together fresh ideas and meaningful connections. Join students, founders, innovators, and supporters for an evening that links Fukuoka, Kyushu, and Korea.
Date and Time: Thursday, May 21, 2026, 16:00 to 20:00
Location: ONE FUKUOKA BLDG. 6F SKY LOBBY
Admission: Free (registration required)
Registration & details: Event website (Japanese)
Event Highlights (In-person only):
16:00 to 16:50
PARKS x Hanyang University: International Pitch and Panel on University Collaboration Between Kyushu and Korea
Students from Hanyang University’s Graduate School of Entrepreneurship and universities across Kyushu and Okinawa will take part in a fast-paced pitch session, with around 12 teams delivering 90-second rocket pitches. The session will also feature a panel discussion on how students in Japan and Korea can build stronger cross-border startup collaboration.
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16:00 to 20:00
Networking
The all-evening networking program at Thursday Gathering is designed to spark business conversations and new collaborations. Participants can enjoy up to three free beers or soft drinks in a relaxed setting while connecting directly with other attendees, guest speakers, and session presenters. It is a great chance to continue discussions and meet potential partners.
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17:00 to 17:15
How to Enjoy Thursday Gathering
New to Venture Café Fukuoka? This interactive session introduces Thursday Gathering, the community behind it, and the mission that drives it. Learn how the event works, why connection matters, and how to get the most out of the experience.
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17:00 to 18:00
Cowork Presents: Claude Code Meetup
AI agents are tools that non-engineers can use too. This demo-focused session explores how Claude Code can support research, document creation, and strategy work, starting from a coworking context. It is a practical introduction designed to make advanced AI feel accessible and immediately useful.
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17:30 to 18:20
F Pitch: Global Connect Fukuoka 1st Anniversary Special
Hosted by Global Connect Fukuoka, this special anniversary edition of F Pitch features a keynote on corporate venture activity from a Silicon Valley perspective by the former CEO of Panasonic Ventures. The program also includes a talk session on global ambition from seed stage startups, spanning fields as diverse as wagashi and semiconductors with space-related potential.
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18:00 to 19:00
Strategic Cross-Boundary Talent in Practice: How Canon Marketing Japan Turns Talent Development into Business Growth
This session explores how large companies and startups can create mutual value through cross-boundary talent exchange, including side jobs and temporary transfers. Featuring examples from Canon Marketing Japan and Techhouse Works, it offers practical insight into how talent mobility can move beyond training and lead to low-risk collaboration and real business growth.
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18:30 to 19:20
F Pitch: Global Connect Fukuoka 1st Anniversary Special
A second opportunity to catch this special session from Global Connect Fukuoka. Expect insights into corporate venture strategy from a Silicon Valley perspective, along with a lively discussion on startup ambition, global expansion, and innovation across very different industries.
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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.