Explore how AI, education, entrepreneurship, and Kyushu’s food industry are shaping the future at Venture Café Fukuoka’s 80th Thursday Gathering. From hands-on prototyping workshops to discussions on AI-powered learning and global food innovation, this week’s program offers practical insights, fresh perspectives, and valuable networking opportunities.
Date and Time: Thursday, August 6, 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):
16:00 – 20:00
Networking (All Day)
Venture Café Fukuoka’s signature networking session runs throughout the event, creating opportunities to connect with entrepreneurs, innovators, investors, and community members. Enjoy up to three complimentary beers or soft drinks while meeting fellow participants, session speakers, and guest speakers in a relaxed atmosphere. Continue conversations after the sessions and discover new opportunities for collaboration.
16:00 – 16:50
Invent the Language of the Future: A Prototyping Workshop to Expand Ideas Through Technology (Part 1)
Designed especially for junior high school students interested in technology and making things, this interactive workshop combines AI, drones, image recognition, and other emerging technologies to inspire ideas for future products and services. Participants will transform original concepts into simple prototypes using everyday craft materials while experiencing the blend of technology, design, and entrepreneurship that defines Kamiyama Marugoto College of Design, Technology and Entrepreneurship.
16:00 – 16:50
How Can AI Expand Your Child’s Learning? A Discussion for Parents (Part 1)
Location: Sub-session Area (next to REC COFFEE)
As AI reshapes education and career pathways, parents are invited to explore what future-ready learning looks like. A board member from Kamiyama Marugoto College of Design, Technology and Entrepreneurship will share practical examples from the school and discuss the skills young people will need in the AI era, encouraging an open discussion about nurturing children’s interests and potential.
17:00 – 17:15
How to Enjoy Thursday Gathering
New to Thursday Gathering? This interactive introduction explains Venture Café Fukuoka’s mission, community, and the value of meaningful networking. Learn how to make the most of the weekly gathering and connect with people across Fukuoka’s innovation ecosystem.
17:30 – 18:30
Understanding Women’s Health in the Workplace: Building Stronger Organizations
Location: 7F CIC Fukuoka
Women’s health issues such as menstruation and PMS affect not only individuals but also workplace productivity and organizational culture. Bringing together perspectives from business, healthcare, and frontline professionals, this panel explores how these challenges impact organizations and what business leaders, HR professionals, and managers can do to create more supportive and inclusive workplaces.
17:30 – 18:20
Invent the Language of the Future: A Prototyping Workshop to Expand Ideas Through Technology (Part 2)
Continue developing and refining ideas introduced in the first session. Participants will build and improve their prototypes while discovering how creative thinking and emerging technologies can be turned into tangible innovations.
17:30 – 18:20
How Can AI Expand Your Child’s Learning? A Discussion for Parents (Part 2)
Location: Sub-session Area (next to REC COFFEE)
The conversation continues with further discussion on how AI is changing education and how parents can help children develop their interests, creativity, and confidence for a rapidly evolving future.
18:30 – 19:20
Kyushu’s Finest Can Compete Globally: The Underdog Strikes Back Vol. 2
Kyushu is home to world-class ingredients, from yellowtail and Japanese spiny lobster to sweet potatoes. Three business leaders who are bringing these products to international markets will discuss how storytelling, branding, and entrepreneurship can unlock global opportunities. The session will also feature the first public presentation of the new SSP Sweets Project.
18:30 – 19:30
Fukuoka AI Agent Night #2: Transform Tomorrow’s Work with AI
Location: Sub-session Area (next to REC COFFEE)
This is the second session in a four-part series designed to help participants move from simply using AI to building AI agents that can support real business operations. Learn how to document workflows, capture organizational knowledge, and create reusable AI skills that reflect your company’s unique processes. Beginners are welcome. Please bring a laptop and access to your preferred AI agent platform.
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.