![\"Thursday](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.fukuoka-now.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/fn_th38-2_2025_cl.jpg?resize=1359%2C760&ssl=1\")
<\/p>\nThis week\u2019s Thursday Gathering focuses on innovation in IT and biotechnology. Award-winning IT startups will share their visions, biotech founders will present breakthrough technologies, and top venture capitalists will discuss the future of bio-innovation. The evening also offers networking opportunities with founders, investors, and innovators, along with complimentary drinks in a relaxed atmosphere.<\/p>\n
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Date and Time:<\/strong> Thursday, Sep. 18, 2025, 16:00 to 20:00 15:55 \u2013 20:00 16:00 \u2013 16:50 17:00 \u2013 17:50 Pitching companies: More info<\/a>: In Japanese<\/em><\/p>\n 17:00 \u2013 17:15 18:00 \u2013 19:30 Pitching companies: Panel discussion with:
\nLocation:<\/strong> ONE FUKUOKA BLDG. 6F SKYLOBBY<\/a>
\nAdmission: Free (registration required)
\nRegistration & details are here<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\nEvent Highlights (In-person only):<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\nNetworking<\/strong>
\nEvery Thursday Gathering includes dedicated networking time designed to spark collaboration and new opportunities. Enjoy up to three complimentary drinks (beer or soft drinks) while connecting with fellow participants, speakers, and guest experts in a relaxed atmosphere. Stay after the sessions to continue discussions and build new relationships.
\nMore info<\/a>: In English and Japanese<\/em><\/p>\n
\nWeLove Tenjin presents: RKB Radio Live Event \u201cWhat\u2019s Okehazama? Returns\u201d<\/strong>
\nThe lively radio program \u201cWhat\u2019s Okehazama?\u201d<\/em> comes to Thursday Gathering for a special live edition! Hosted by Erena Sakamoto, Masanori Hashimoto, and Kotaro Take, the show will welcome guest Sachi Nishizaki, an entrepreneur who turned her knack for organization into a business. Expect energetic banter, insights into Nishizaki\u2019s journey, and a look at her \u201cOkehazama\u201d \u2013 the pivotal moments shaping her future. A rare chance to see your favorite radio personalities live on stage!
\nMore info<\/a>: In Japanese<\/em><\/p>\n
\nF\u2605PITCH \u2013 IT Edition<\/strong>
\nHosted by Global Connect Fukuoka, this startup pitch event supports funding and business matching for IT innovators. This session highlights award-winning companies from Fukuoka\u2019s IT industry initiatives, offering a first-hand look at the future of digital innovation.<\/p>\n
\n\u2022 eatas Inc. \u2013 CEO Etsuko Teshima
\n\u2022 pono Inc. \u2013 CEO Chie Ushijima
\n\u2022 AnyCarry Inc. \u2013 CEO Hidenobu Kosaki
\n\u2022 BEAGLE Inc. \u2013 CEO Nobumichi Shinohara
\n\u2022 Eletus Inc. \u2013 CEO Masatoshi Sonoda (online)<\/p>\n
\nHow to Enjoy Thursday Gathering<\/strong>
\nNew to Thursday Gathering? This short, interactive session introduces the community, its mission, and the meaning of connecting through Venture Caf\u00e9 Fukuoka\u2019s weekly flagship event. A perfect entry point for first-time visitors.
\nMore info<\/a>: In Japanese & English<\/em><\/p>\n
\nF\u2605PITCH \u2013 BIO Edition<\/strong>
\nFive pioneering biotech startups take the stage to share their technologies and visions for the future. Following the pitches, leading venture capitalists and industry experts will join a panel discussion on the global future of bio-innovation. An unmissable chance to meet founders, investors, and peers in life sciences.<\/p>\n
\n\u2022 Bridge Core Kyushu Inc.
\n\u2022 Walkable Future Inc.
\n\u2022 Chiral Inc.
\n\u2022 Hynts Tech Inc.
\n\u2022 HaKaL Inc.<\/p>\n
\n\u2022 Atsushi Usami, Partner, The University of Tokyo Edge Capital Partners (UTEC)
\n\u2022 Hikaru Saito, Partner, Saisei Ventures
\n\u2022 Aya Sasaki, Manager, FFG Venture Business Partners
\n\u2022 Mika Gushima, Senior Associate, QB Capital LLC
\n\u2022 Akihiko Soyama, Executive Director, LINK-J (Moderator)<\/p>\n