![\"Thursday](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.fukuoka-now.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/fn_tg43_2025_cl.jpg?resize=1330%2C746&ssl=1\")
<\/p>\nThis week\u2019s Thursday Gathering bridges global innovation and Kyushu\u2019s local culture. Learn about opportunities to connect with Nordic startups ahead of Finland\u2019s world-renowned \u201cSlush\u201d event, and enjoy the first edition of a Kagoshima-style sweet potato festival celebrating shochu, one of Japan\u2019s most iconic spirits.<\/p>\n
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Date and Time:<\/strong> Thursday, Oct. 23, 2025, 16:00 to 20:00 15:55 \u2013 20:00 16:00 \u2013 16:50 17:00 \u2013 17:15 17:30 \u2013 19:20 Speakers: This session is part of \u201cSave the Sweet Potato\u201d, an industry\u2013academia\u2013government collaboration that brings together farmers, companies, universities, and local governments across southern Kyushu to sustain and grow the regional sweet potato economy. Amid challenges lie major opportunities \u2014 from shochu and sweets to tourism and design \u2014 to build a vibrant, enjoyable, and sustainable local ecosystem.<\/p>\n Shochu brands available for tasting:
\nLocation:<\/strong> ONE FUKUOKA BLDG. 6F SKYLOBBY<\/a>
\nAdmission:<\/strong> Free (registration required)
\nRegistration & details are here<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\nEvent Highlights (In-person only)<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\nNetworking<\/strong>
\nEach Thursday Gathering includes dedicated networking time, with up to three complimentary drinks (beer or soft drinks). Meet speakers, entrepreneurs, and fellow attendees in a relaxed setting designed to spark new connections and collaborations.
\nMore info<\/a> : In English and Japanese<\/em><\/p>\n
\nGold Track to the Nordics! Collaboration Opportunities with the Nordic Startup Scene<\/strong>
\nThis session introduces the vibrant startup ecosystem of Northern Europe, with insights from experts connected to \u201cSlush,\u201d the region\u2019s largest startup event held each November in Helsinki. Learn how Fukuoka-based startups and established companies can expand into the Nordic market, form partnerships, and embrace the region\u2019s unique approach to innovation, sustainability, and entrepreneurship. Expect practical advice, collaboration stories, and introductions to key players helping bridge Japan and the Nordics.
\nMore info<\/a> : In English and Japanese<\/em><\/p>\n
\nHow to Enjoy Thursday Gathering<\/strong>
\nA short interactive orientation explaining the purpose and mission of Thursday Gathering, community values, and how to get the most from your participation. Highly recommended for first-timers.
\nMore info<\/a> : In English & Japanese<\/em><\/p>\n
\nExploring the Future of the Sweet Potato Economy through Shochu<\/strong>
\n\u201cSharing Shochu, Sharing the Future\u201d \u2014 This session dives into the evolving \u201csweet potato economy,\u201d covering topics such as the impact of sweet potato root rot disease, this year\u2019s harvest outlook, the preservation and innovation of shochu culture, and new collaborations with startups. In the second half, participants can enjoy a tasting session featuring leading Kyushu shochu brands that express the region\u2019s unique spirit and terroir.<\/p>\n
\n\u2022 Saki Tominaga (Representative, LINK SPIRITS \/ Shochu Sommelier)
\n\u2022 Representatives from Satsuma Shuzo and Kojika Shuzo
\n\u2022 Kana Torigoe (MC \/ \u201cSweet Potato Announcer\u201d)
\n\u2022 Motofumi Goto (Director, Biz Promotion Division, welzo \/ SSP Project Leader)<\/p>\n
\n\u2022 Kojika Shuzo \u2013 Kojika, Umashisato, Ten to Chi to Hito to, Bliss-Time
\n\u2022 Satsuma Shuzo \u2013 Ayahibiki, Shiranami Shinshu
\n\u2022 Inoue Shuzo \u2013 20% Sawayakai Obisugi, 25% Aka Obisugi, 25% Kuro Obisugi
\n\u2022 Sakura no Sato Shuzo \u2013 Silk Sweet Blend, Mugetsu Marumi Kurabito Gensen, Mugetsu Marumi Long-term Kame-aged
\n\u2022 Jukai Shuzo \u2013 Imobi, Kura no Namida<\/p>\n