Hear live pitches from Kyushu entrepreneurs and explore how LGBTQ inclusion can contribute to business growth at Thursday Gathering #89. This week’s program features the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year regional competition, practical perspectives on diversity, and opportunities to meet fellow participants and speakers.
Date and Time: Thursday, October 15, 2026, 16:00 to 20:00
Location: ONE FUKUOKA BLDG. 6F SKYLOBBY
Admission: Free (registration required)
Registration & details: Event website
Event Highlights (In-person only):
16:00 – 18:20
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2026 Japan: Kyushu Regional Competition
Discover the entrepreneurs representing Kyushu at this year’s national competition in Tokyo in December. EY Japan’s annual regional event supports entrepreneurs as they work toward the global stage. The program also includes the final selection for Kyushu’s Challenging Spirit category, with finalists presenting their pitches live.
More info: Event program
16:00 – 20:00
Networking
Meet fellow participants, session speakers and guest presenters throughout the afternoon and evening. Continue a discussion after a session, exchange ideas or find someone to collaborate with. Enjoy up to three complimentary beers or soft drinks in a relaxed setting.
More info: Event program
17:00 – 17:15
How to Enjoy Thursday Gathering
Get an introduction to Venture Café Fukuoka’s weekly event and the community behind it. This interactive session explains its mission, how to get involved and why making connections matters. A useful starting point for anyone curious about Thursday Gathering.
More info: Event program
17:30 – 18:15
Meetup for Thursday Gathering Beginners!
New to Thursday Gathering? Meet other first-time participants and learn how to make the most of Venture Café’s community. This welcoming session introduces the weekly gathering and gives newcomers a chance to start conversations and get to know one another.
Venue: CIC Fukuoka, 7F, Conference Room WATA
More info: Event program
18:30 – 19:20
LGBTQ Inclusion and Business: Connecting Diversity with Growth
What does LGBTQ inclusion mean for the way companies hire, retain staff, develop products and serve customers? Explore the situation in Kyushu and Japan, including public-sector initiatives, then hear from companies putting diversity into practice. The discussion will cover lessons from existing efforts and practical first steps for businesses beginning to address inclusion.
More info: Event program
Organized by Venture Café Fukuoka
Languages: EY, introduction and LGBTQ sessions in Japanese; networking and beginners’ meetup in Japanese and English.
All sessions are in-person only. Pre-registration required via the event website.