Venture Café Fukuoka marks its second anniversary with an afternoon of AI insights, startup pitches and networking. GLOBAL CONNECT (SPARK) DAY, held in collaboration with SoftBank, brings emerging technology and opportunities for business partnerships into focus.
Date and Time: Thursday, November 5, 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 – 20:00
Networking
Meet fellow participants, speakers and potential collaborators throughout the afternoon and evening. Continue conversations after the sessions and exchange ideas over a drink, with up to three complimentary beers or soft drinks available per person. Networking is in Japanese and English.
More info: Event program
17:00 – 17:15
How to Enjoy Thursday Gathering
Discover how Venture Café Fukuoka’s weekly gathering works and how to get involved. This interactive introduction covers the community’s mission and the role of personal connections in developing ideas and collaborations. A useful starting point for anyone curious about the event.
More info: Event program
17:30 – 18:15
Meetup for Thursday Gathering Beginners
Meet other first-time visitors and get to know the Venture Café community. This welcoming session introduces Thursday Gathering and helps newcomers find their way into conversations and future activities. Held in a 7F CIC Fukuoka meeting room.
More info: Event program
17:30 – 20:00
GLOBAL CONNECT (SPARK) DAY Featuring SoftBank
Global Connect Fukuoka teams up with SoftBank for special talks on advanced AI technologies and business development, alongside pitches from startups based in Fukuoka Prefecture. The fourth SPARK DAY of the fiscal year offers practical insights into AI trends and opportunities to explore partnerships. The series supports business matching between startups and major companies in Japan and overseas.
More info: Event program
Organized by Venture Café Fukuoka
Languages: Primarily Japanese; networking in Japanese and English
All sessions are in-person only. Advance registration required via the event website.