![\"Thursday](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.fukuoka-now.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/fn_th35_2025_cl.jpg?resize=1400%2C793&ssl=1\")
<\/p>\nThis week\u2019s Thursday Gathering spotlights the rapidly growing caregiving market, innovative startup solutions, and practical hiring strategies for an era of labor shortages\u2014plus a lively \u201cResearcher Oogiri\u201d session on Kyushu\u2019s energy future. Join industry experts, entrepreneurs, and community members for an evening of insights and networking.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Date and Time: Thursday, Aug. 28, 2025, 16:00 to 20:00 15:55 \u2013 20:00 16:00 \u2013 16:50 In this session: Speakers: 17:00 \u2013 17:15 18:00 \u2013 20:00 18:30 \u2013 19:20 From applicant outreach to interview conversions, media usage tips, branding essentials, and real-world case studies, this session is packed with actionable insights\u2014ideal for HR, recruitment, and management professionals facing hiring challenges.<\/p>\n
\nLocation: ONE FUKUOKA BLDG. 6F SKYLOBBY<\/a>
\nAdmission: Free (registration required)
\nRegistration & details are here<\/a><\/p>\nEvent Highlights (In-person only)<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\nNetworking (All Evening)<\/strong>
\nConnect with innovators, startup founders, corporate leaders, and investors in a relaxed setting. Enjoy up to 3 complimentary beers or soft drinks while engaging in casual conversation or diving deep into new ideas.
\nMore info<\/a> \u2013 In Japanese & English<\/em><\/p>\n
\nCreating Smiles in Caregiving \u2013 DX, New Business Models, and a \u00a520 Trillion Market<\/strong>
\nJapan\u2019s caregiving market is already valued at around \u00a515 trillion annually and is expected to exceed \u00a520 trillion by 2040 due to the rapid growth of the elderly population. However, with an estimated shortage of 600,000 caregiving workers by that year, improving efficiency and working conditions is critical.
\nThe government is actively promoting DX adoption and regulatory reform, while initiatives like the Kyushu Healthcare Industry Promotion Council (HAMIQ) are supporting caregiving-focused startups. Their efforts include hands-on guidance from 16 professional coordinators\u2014many with nursing or occupational therapy backgrounds\u2014and product testing in 14 hospitals and care facilities across Kyushu.<\/p>\n
\n\u2022 An overview of Japan\u2019s caregiving challenges and HAMIQ\u2019s startup support programs
\n\u2022 Startup pitches:
\n\u2013 Abstract LLC<\/strong>: Transforming facility operations with a caregiving record system that turns documentation into valuable assets
\n\u2013 Orabubble Inc.<\/strong>: Preventing pneumonia with a microbubble-powered oral care device
\n\u2022 A mini-panel discussion on how to create a thriving, smile-filled caregiving environment and capture the future market opportunity<\/p>\n
\n\u2022 Hiroto Ishibashi, Chief Coordinator, Kyushu Healthcare Industry Promotion Council
\n\u2022 Yu Yoshioka, CEO, Abstract LLC
\n\u2022 Satoru Ogawara, CEO, Orabubble Inc.
\nMore info<\/a> \u2013 In Japanese<\/em><\/p>\n
\nHow to Enjoy Thursday Gathering<\/strong>
\nAn interactive introduction to Venture Caf\u00e9 Fukuoka\u2019s signature weekly event\u2014its mission, community, and tips for making the most of your time here. Perfect for first-time visitors.
\nMore info<\/a> \u2013 In Japanese & English<\/em><\/p>\n
\nResearcher Oogiri in Kyushu \u2013 The Future of Energy<\/strong>
\nDetails coming soon! Expect lively, rapid-fire presentations from researchers on energy innovations for Kyushu\u2019s future.
\nMore info<\/a> \u2013 In Japanese<\/em><\/p>\n
\nSurviving the Hiring Ice Age \u2013 Talent Strategies in an Era of Shortages<\/strong>
\nWith Japan\u2019s shrinking population intensifying labor shortages and contributing to rising corporate bankruptcies, companies must rethink their recruitment approach. Drawing on 30 years of experience, Fukuoka-based hiring support company Quick Fukuoka shares practical, field-tested strategies to attract, secure, and retain the right talent.<\/p>\n