Session

Opening Ceremony

As the world enters an era of significant transformation, emerging technologies are poised to revolutionize the economies and societies. Japan, recognizing this major shift, holds immense potential to drive the future through new value creation. In this session, the CEO of MUFG, one of Japan’s leading financial groups, will talk about Japan's promotion of innovation with an eye to the future and the evolving landscape of Japanese businesses. Through real-world examples and dialogues with startups, the session will highlight the potential of Japanese society and companies in shaping the future.

As the mission of universities continues to diversify and evolve, their role in nurturing talent and shaping changemakers, who will drive the transformation of society in the future, is becoming increasingly important.
Against the backdrop of academia’s changing landscape, the presidents of two of Tokyo’s leading, and among Japan’s most renowned and oldest, universities will address the new challenges that institutions of higher learning, such as their own, need to take on.
Recent years have seen a rise in the number of students pursuing entrepreneurship not just as a means for achieving economic success, but also as a vehicle for creating a better society. The urgent mission that universities are charged with is to build and provide an environment for the cultivation of individuals who can collaborate with others coming from diverse backgrounds, and to create new value and find solutions to the challenges facing our society.

This session explores how quantum technology can pave the way to a sustainable future. Experts will discuss innovations brought about by quantum technology, including improvements in energy efficiency, environmental protection, and new material development. By considering the societal transformations made possible by the practical application of quantum technology, the session aims to offer new perspectives and approaches for building a sustainable future.

This session will feature key figures of leading corporate venture capital (CVC) firms from Indonesian and Malaysian conglomerates with a core focus on real estate, and the heavy industry and engineering sectors in Singapore, and a prominent independent venture capital (VC) firm in Vietnam, these entities are actively engaged in fostering collaboration between the ecosystems of Japan and various Southeast Asian countries. This session will introduce the latest trends within each country's ecosystem and the initiatives undertaken by these companies, followed by a discussion on the roles expected of Japanese startups and business corporations, as well as the opportunities for collaboration.

Our world is at a tipping point. As we confront a convergence of global challenges - from a rising population and deepening food insecurity to biodiversity loss and a changing climate - the need to radically rethink how we produce, distribute, and consume food has never been more urgent.
Innovation - especially from bold startups and visionary technologists - holds the key to feeding the future while protecting our planet. At FAO, we believe that harnessing the power of science, data, and digital tools can unlock a new era for agrifood systems: one that is more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable. But no one actor can do it alone. We need partnerships that bring together public policy, private ingenuity, and grassroots innovation.

As Japan’s startup ecosystem seeks to globalize, the internationalization of VCs is vital. This session features five Kauffman Fellows sharing how the program shaped their growth as global investors—through its selection, training, and powerful network. Drawing on their post-fellowship journeys, we’ll explore the impact of global VC mindsets and what it takes for Japanese VCs and CVCs to connect with the world and lead on the global stage.

Toshiaki HIGASHIHARA, Executive Chairman of Hitachi, Ltd., will explore the founding spirit that dates back 115 years and how it has shaped the Hitachi Group Identity.
The Chairman will also share insights into the mindset required of leaders driving social innovation and how this philosophy guides the company’s efforts to create a human-centric society through its Social Innovation Business.
Furthermore, the session will highlight Hitachi’s Corporate Venture Capital (CVC) initiatives and the role of co-creation with startups in accelerating social innovation.

With the economic growth of Southeast Asian countries, such as Thailand, there is an increasing number of consumers seeking improved quality of life, presenting a significant business opportunity for Japan. In particular, high-quality Japanese products and technologies, such as cosmetics and food, are highly regarded in the ASEAN market. By leveraging the strength of the Japanese brand and actively collaborating with local companies to develop the combined market of Japan and ASEAN, totaling 800 million people, Japanese companies can expect both regional development and their own growth.
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government's "SusHi Tech Tokyo" is an excellent initiative supporting young entrepreneurs who will lead the future of Asia. Collaboration with the sister city Bangkok is expected to promote cooperation between young companies from both countries.
Additionally, CP's incubation facility, True Digital Park, hosts the "Rock Thailand", an event to support Japanese startups, which is anticipated to serve as a base for expanding into the ASEAN market in the future.
The global economy is currently facing a crisis. However, a crisis encompasses both "danger" and "opportunity." By deepening economic cooperation between Japan and Asia, integrating markets, and adhering to the "Three Benefits Principle"—prioritizing the country where business is conducted, its citizens, and finally, corporate profits—we are confident that sustainable urban development and corporate growth can be achieved.

Under the theme "Japan Through the Eyes of Global Top-Tier VCs," this panel features two leading Investor Relations executives from prominent U.S. venture capital firms. The discussion will explore Japan from three perspectives: 1) as a source of capital, 2) as a business market for their portfolio companies, and 3) as a destination for investment—namely, the appeal of Japanese startups. The panel will dive into the opportunities and challenges each perspective presents.

The evolution of AI technology holds the potential to dramatically transform business productivity and competitiveness. This session will discuss the current state and future prospects of AI agents. The speakers will share their companies' brief overview, visions, strategies, and future developments, illustrating concrete steps for international expansion using AI technology. Additionally, the session will delve into what technology companies should do to ride the next wave of AI productivity, the future of agent-based AI that accelerates R&D, and business/AI strategies to embrace these changes.

Digital public goods are gaining attention as a powerful solution to global challenges such as population decline and social inequality. In this session, we will explore how rapidly advancing AI can accelerate the development of digital public goods, how these technologies might transform our life, economy & society. what actions we need to take to successfully integrate them into society.

How does a Singapore-based global VC, Vertex Holdings, develop growth strategies and create investment opportunities to drive global innovation in rapidly changing market environments? Leveraging their global networks, they build close relationships with startup ecosystems in each region and invest in promising startups. CEO Chua Kee Lock will speak about their methods, industry outlook, and expectations for the Japanese market.

This session brings together a diverse group of experts, including AI platform providers, startups, and economists. Viewing AI as a supportive co-creation partner for humans, the discussion will explore the latest AI trends and real-world implementations from multiple perspectives. Additionally, looking ahead to the next five years and beyond, the session will delve deeper into how AI integration into society is expected to evolve, offering insights and predictions for the future.

SusHi Tech Challenge 2025 Award Ceremony / Governor's Speech

University based accelerators and incubators play a critical role in innovation ecosystem. This session will explore how university-based incubators and accelerators actively contribute to foster a new wave of deep tech startups that are tackling global challenges with an emphasis on the role of universities in fostering and driving innovation and transformation

In this session, experts will shine a spotlight on startup ecosystems across Japan, highlighting their innovative initiatives and success stories. The session will delve into how startups can contribute to regional economies through the utilization of local resources and collaboration between industry, academia, and government. Additionally, the speakers will discuss about strategies to strengthen nationwide collaboration (All-Japan approach) and create startups that can grow globally. Four key ecosystem players from various regions will share their insights and perspectives on the future of Japan's startup ecosystem.

In this session, speakers will discuss the necessity and importance of DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) within ecosystems from various perspectives, including those from Europe and other global viewpoints. Further, this session will delve into DEI, influenced by historical backgrounds, current demands, and differing values through concrete examples. Additionally, the session will explore what challenges and ideas will be required by future ecosystem players.

Part1　NVIDIA: Current Status and Next Innovation of AI Revolution
Founded in 1993 for GPU development, NVIDIA has grown its business in fields such as autonomous driving and robotics, forming an ecosystem that collaborates with over 6 million developers and more than 30,000 companies. With over a decade of experience in the AI/deep learning sector, NVIDIA supports the latest advancements in generative AI. In this session, the company will introduce next-generation solutions in physical AI and agent-based AI, which are expected to see significant future advancements, as well as initiatives by related startup companies.

Part2　XinobiAI: The Future of AI Agents and Agentic Networks
Generative AI and autonomous agent technology are rapidly evolving beyond mere productivity enhancements, ushering in a new era defined by autonomous decision-making and proactive collaboration. Groundbreaking developments, including Google's agent-to-agent collaboration protocol "A2A," OpenAI's latest advanced reasoning and visual comprehension model "O3," and "Numus," a super-agent autonomously orchestrating dozens of tools.
In the near future, individuals and organizations will leverage dedicated AI agents capable of independently negotiating, contracting, and executing complex tasks—laying the foundation for a powerful new "Agent Economy." Businesses that embrace AI as a strategic competitive advantage will empower their human workforce to focus on higher-level, creative decision-making.

This strategic session explores how two of the world’s leading capital cities, Abu Dhabi and Tokyo are shaping globally connected innovation ecosystems. With shared ambitions to lead in emerging industries, both cities are investing in platform-building, policy reform, and global integration.
Through this dialogue, H.E. Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi and Governor Yuriko Koike will share their perspectives on navigating the challenges and opportunities of building cross-border innovation frameworks. Topics include investment promotion strategies, startup ecosystem development, inclusive growth, and the future of international collaboration.

From the perspectives of Keidanren and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, both actively promoting startup development, this discussion explores the milestones achieved so far and examines the outlook for future initiatives.

Japan’s startup support system has seen some progress over the past 15 years—but has the change been truly fundamental? In this session, experienced VC and institutional investors involved in early-stage and long-term capital deployment will share firsthand what has worked, what hasn’t, and why. Looking ahead, the discussion will focus on what Japan needs to prioritize to build a globally competitive ecosystem over the next decade.

As global energy systems undergo seismic shifts toward decarbonization, decentralization, and digitization, new market structures, investment strategies, and technological paradigms are emerging at scale. This session will discuss about the role that a global clean energy investor can play in fostering climate technology at several stages of development, with different sources of capital (Philanthropic, Venture Capital, Project Finance) and practical examples from portfolio companies driving the early-stage, next-generation clean energy innovations for sustainability and circularity.

This session will delve into how Japan can create and nurture decacorn companies with global competitiveness in the deep tech field. Why are startups that blend technology with “sweet strawberries” and “nutritious seaweed” capturing the world's attention? We will focus on Japan's strength in food-based technological innovation, featuring perspectives from globally active startups based in the U.S. and investors supporting deep tech companies in the food and agriculture sectors. Furthermore, we will explore concrete strategies for leveraging Japan's unique strengths on the global stage, discussing aspects such as funding and policy support.

In addressing urban challenges, a collection of partial measures does not necessarily provide the correct solution. With the rapid advancement of technology and the dramatic shift in people's values regarding quality of life (QOL), there is a need for a fundamental innovation in urban structure. This cannot be solved by merely addressing individual issues; instead, a reform of networks and urban infrastructure viewed from a bird's-eye perspective is necessary. Since transforming urban infrastructure takes time, it is essential to start immediately. So, where should we begin? This session will explore answers from global pioneers.

This session provides an in-depth look at quantum ecosystems in various countries and the latest developments in quantum technology. International experts will gather to discuss the progress of quantum technology from the perspectives of policy, industry, and academia. By sharing different countries' initiatives and success stories, participants will gain valuable insights into the global forefront of quantum technology. This session aims to capture the trends of next-generation technological innovations and offer forward-looking insights into the future of quantum technology.

Overview: New York and Berlin are known for welcoming many immigrants and being chosen by foreigners.
Both cities have highly developed entrepreneurial cultures and have formed unique startup ecosystems throughout their histories.
The development of these ecosystems requires global collaboration, and various initiatives are underway.
In this session, we will invite two panelists who support and lead the ecosystems of New York and Berlin from the public side.
They will provide valuable insights into the ecosystems of both cities, including expectations for collaboration with Asia, particularly Tokyo.

Technology has a transformative role in creating a sustainable, equitable world, by enabling digital access to all. Digital inclusivity is a cornerstone for achieving such broader sustainability goals. This session envisions the role of connectivity, infrastructure and investment as key drives of digital inclusion and access.

Cities around the world are facing various challenges, including increasingly frequent and severe natural disasters on a global scale. In this session, Governor Chadchart of Bangkok will speak about the efforts made in Bangkok so far, the utilization of the latest technologies, collaboration with startups, and intercity partnerships, discussing prospects for enhancing urban resilience.

This session explores the present and future of startup ecosystems in Asia, with a focus on the economic value of startups compared to GDP. By examining the experiences and progress of Korea and India—where startups have had a notable impact on national economies—we aim to gain concrete insights into effective strategies for revitalizing Japan’s startup ecosystem.

This session will discuss startups leveraging AI to contribute to social infrastructure and the long-term ecosystem strategy that supports them.
We will share Google for Startups' long-term ecosystem support strategy and introduce new programs. Additionally, we will host Alchemist Accelerator to discuss their support offerings.
Furthermore, we will explore how startups using generative AI to support social infrastructure and transform entire industries can target the global market from their early stages and offer services that have established a strong foundation in Japan as valuable assets overseas.
We will also consider together the secrets for CxOs to effectively utilize support organizations and programs.
Ultimately, we will delve deeply into the ideal state of the long-term ecosystem as a whole, which is essential for Japanese startups to continue growing globally.

This session will highlight new investment opportunities in the decarbonization space and explain the key drivers and environmental impacts behind advancing a net-zero economy with concrete examples from the perspectives of top climate VCs and notable startups.

As a country that has long faced the challenges of an aging society, Japan has become a pioneer in addressing these issues. Now, the global markets, including the United States, are also beginning to focus on the care economy, specially Age Tech, and it is attracting significant attention. As human lifespans continue to increase, what kinds of technologies will be needed for people to maintain rich, independent lives both physically and mentally? What roles will cutting-edge technologies like Age Tech play in society? This session will discuss these topics while considering the social backgrounds of both Japan and the United States.

Mitsubishi Electric is shifting away from a self-reliant approach and embracing open innovation through partnerships with startups. Guided by the belief that “technology can transform the world,” the ME Innovation Fund promotes investment and collaboration with startups that bring bold ideas and groundbreaking technologies.
This session will present specific examples of collaborations with startups and highlight the strategic areas of focus going forward. It offers a valuable opportunity to gain insights into effective approaches to business collaboration.

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government aims to address social challenges through innovation while fostering the exponential growth of startups by collaborating with them. This pitch event will feature startups tackling "heat countermeasures" in response to climate change, with the Tokyo 2025 World Athletics Championship—a global-scale international sports event—as their testing ground. We invite you to explore innovative ideas and services designed to provide heat countermeasures for athletes, spectators, and others, focusing on solutions with minimal environmental impact that could serve as models for future international sports events.
The following is a list of judges for this pitch event.

From the perspective of "decarbonization starting with consumers," this discussion will cover the challenges of visualizing GHG emissions across the entire supply chain of companies, the establishment of social infrastructure to reduce environmental impact through urban micro-mobility, and approaches to promoting behavioral change among individuals. Each topic will be examined from different standpoints. This collaboration, where technology, urban development, and behavioral science intersect, will provide participants with a vision of advancing the implementation of decarbonization.

Discover how Egypt is emerging as a dynamic digital hub at the crossroads of continents. This session highlights the country’s bold strides in innovation, digital infrastructure, and tech talent development—driven by strategic public-private collaboration and an ambitious national vision. Hear from Egypt’s Minister of Communications and Information Technology Dr. Amr S. Talaat and the CEO of the Information Technology Development Agency Eng. Ahmed El Zaher, and company's testimonials, as they showcase investment opportunities, Egypt's thriving startup ecosystem, and Egypt’s positioning as a regional leader in connectivity, cloud, and digital services. Whether you're exploring partnerships, talent sourcing, or regional expansion, this session offers insights into how Egypt is a rising digital hub at the cross-roads of three continents and many cultures.

As generative and Agent AI drive attention toward a "workforce revolution," how is AI actually being implemented on the frontlines? In this session, three innovative startup companies leading the charge in practical AI adoption share their insights. We’ll explore real-world experiences and key takeaways for the future of digital transformation.

Innovation and sustainability don't emerge in isolation—they grow in ecosystems where communities are nurtured, connected, and empowered. This panel explores the dual role of the public and private sectors in building these ecosystems at both macro and micro levels.
Governments play a pivotal role in shaping macro communities—through policies, infrastructure, and investment—that attract industry clusters, R&D hubs, and sustainable development zones. Meanwhile, private sector players foster grassroots innovation by supporting startups, social enterprises, creators, and citizen-led solutions.

This session will begin with mothers and their children taking the stage together.It brings together mothers who are both entrepreneurs and supporters of other entrepreneurs to discuss the realities of balancing parenting and careers in Japan’s startup ecosystem. Gain insights into the unique challenges women face in the industry and discover practical strategies for achieving success despite time constraints. Topics will include managing the emotional struggle between family and business, taking proactive steps to garner support and understanding, and harnessing the power of community connections. Additionally, the session will feature a live graphic recording to visually capture the key moments. At the end, participants will come together to reflect on the session using the completed graphic recording. Don't miss this opportunity to learn, connect, and be inspired!

Today, the driving force energizing the world is the "spirit of challenge" that young people possess.
Armed with abundant energy, curiosity, and the flexibility to bounce back from failure, all it takes is a little bit of courage to turn new ideas into reality.
In this session, we’ll explore diverse forms of challenge—from solopreneurs to student-led startups—while discovering insights with globally active entrepreneurs on how to unlock your full potential.

India – the powerhouse of the Global South – has achieved remarkable growth. Elite innovators from the world's third-largest startup nation are coming to Japan – people you rarely get to meet! A unicorn founder, prominent women entrepreneurs, and the CEO of India's largest tech media will discuss India's booming startup ecosystem, stock market, innovative EXIT strategies, the future direction of tech dominance, and opportunities for Japanese in this market. Take advantage of this valuable opportunity to explore the inner workings of this explosively growing elephant, and discover untapped opportunities that Japanese companies and investors should seize!

Members of the Tokyo AI Strategy Council will discuss how advancements in AI will transform society, how these changes will impact our daily lives, and how government administrations should approach and integrate AI.

How to convet cities to global innovation hubs? This session will explore strategies for the global expansion of startups that originate from urban ecosystems, highlighting the case of Newlab in the United States, which has successfully formed an ecosystem centered on innovative technology through public-private partnerships. Using this as a reference, this session will focus on applying these insights to Japanese cities and explore policy approaches and examine strategies to maximize the potential of Japanese cities and transform the world from the local level.

The concept of "regeneration" has recently gained global attention as a new approach to urban development. This session will delve into the concept of regeneration through the lens of "water environment and human regeneration." Innovative entrepreneurs from WOTA, INNOQUA, and Nocnum will take the stage to discuss the circulation and symbiosis of water in future cities and lifestyles from multiple perspectives.

In this session, we will explore the pivotal role stablecoins play in driving the mass adoption of Web3 technologies across Asia. As digital economies continue to expand, stablecoins offer a bridge between traditional finance and the decentralized world of Web3. This panel will delve into the regulatory landscape, technological advancements, and real-world applications that make stablecoins a crucial element in the transition to a more inclusive and efficient digital economy. Our esteemed panelists will share insights on the challenges and opportunities presented by stablecoins, discuss the importance of compliance in fostering trust and stability, and highlight case studies from across the region that demonstrate successful integration and adoption.

On March 27, 2025, TAKANAWA GATEWAY CITY, JR East’s largest urban development project, celebrated its grand opening. With a vision of "Global Benefit," the city aims to lead the environmentally sustainable urban development. It also serves as a testing ground for a "rich life 100 years into the future," supporting startups in the fields of environment, mobility, and healthcare. Using this city as a case-study, this session will explore urban development for the next 100 years.

This session will begin with an introduction to Google's initiatives supporting innovation ecosystems in the AI x healthcare domain. Following this, a panel discussion will be held with startups and experts in Japan's AI x healthcare sector. The AI x healthcare field holds significant potential, particularly for Japan, at the forefront of addressing challenges related to an aging society. Japan has the opportunity to develop and expand medical solutions internationally as a pioneer in tackling these issues. The discussion will focus on advancing Japan's ecosystem further from the perspectives of data, healthcare, policy, and talent development.

As the world faces unprecedented environmental challenges, the transition to a circular economy is essential. This session highlights actionable strategies, and inspiring examples that can pave way to a sustainable future and methods to encourage various stakeholders’ participation in circular economy.

This session will explore how to preserve and evolve Japan's food culture, skills, and techniques, and utilize them in the future food industry. Japan's food traditions, which have been cultivated over a long history, such as fermentation techniques, seasonal ingredients, regional food culture, soy, seaweed, and fish culture, and rice and rice cultivation techniques, are attracting attention from all over the world. How will traditional techniques and culture evolve and be passed down with cutting-edge technology? Both centuries-old companies from the Muromachi period and startups will come together to discuss how traditional techniques and food culture can evolve and passed doewn to future through advanced technology. This session will connect the past and present to create future possibilities in food tech, discussing how to shape the future of food industry and culture, and what are the necessary actions to achieve this.

The simultaneous pursuit of energy security and decarbonization demands technological innovation in an era of escalating geopolitical risks. This session delves into the intersection of Climate Tech and Defense Tech, exploring their collective contributions to next-generation energy supply and a decarbonized society. Join us as we uncover insights from the founder of a German DeepTech startup specializing in critical mineral recycling, the CEO of an Estonian government fund, and Makoto Shiono, an expert in geopolitics and technology. The discussion will be moderated by Tomosaku Sohara of NordicNinja VC, an investor in European DeepTech.

The sports industry is experiencing a significant transformation on a global scale. By incorporating cutting-edge technology and the power of startups, sports teams are not only advancing the sports themselves but also creating new values in the sports business and bringing about a social impact on local and fan communities. This session will introduce initiatives such as Real Madrid's "Real Madrid Next Accelerator for Asia" and Brazilian soccer team Botafogo, and discuss the potential for innovation brought about by the collaboration between global sports teams and startups.

Regulation and legal reforms play a crucial role in the future growth of the Web3 industry. In this panel, Can Sun from BackPack will discuss the latest trends in licensing and regulation, while Genki Oda from JVCEA will explain the upcoming legal changes in Japan and their impact on the market. Moderated by Yuki Kamimoto from CoinDesk, the session will explore both domestic and international regulatory environments and the business transformations they bring.

This session will identify strategies for Japanese startups to enter and grow in the international space market. With a particular focus on collaboration with France, the session will present the state of international collaboration, approaches to European, US and emerging markets, and best practices that Japanese companies should utilize. This session will also delve deeper into the significance of entering the global market for companies active not only in the space industry but also in adjacent fields, as well as the opportunities for Japan-France and Japan-Europe collaboration.

Open Innovation is increasingly recognized as an important area for Japanese companies in the wake of ongoing global uncertainties in international business. Why should Japanese companies look to Europe as a partner now? How should they approach successful collaboration? Experts who are actively engaged in Japan-Europe tech collaborations across the UK, Nordic/Baltic countries and continental Europe will discuss these topics based on their respective experiences.

The movement of digital transformation (DX) is fundamentally reshaping business operations, while the environment surrounding startups is also increasingly fostering their creation and growth in Japan.
In this session, Mr. Akio Isowa—a DX leader at SMBC Group who has successfully led innovative projects such as SMBC CLOUDSIGN and Cotra, and engaged in building ecosystems for academic startups as an executive officer at Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation responsible for supporting startups—will discuss the group’s approach to digital transformation and initiatives to support startups.

This session will explore the potential of cultured meat and alternative ingredients from multiple angles, with a focus on balancing technological advances and "deliciousness" for the future of food. The key to consumer acceptance is deliciousness. French startups focusing on food culture, chefs, and researchers will discuss about the latest trends from their respective positions and perspectives, and consider sustainable and delicious food of the future.

SHIMZ NEXT, Shimizu Corporation’s business co-creation program, is taking on the challenge of creating new values in collaboration with a diverse range of startups, aiming to realize a sustainable future society. This session will introduce an overview of the program and feature a panel discussion with participating startups and in-house experts, showcasing the program’s practices and potential.

In today's world, where global challenges such as climate change and poverty are mounting, where can we find ways to accelerate initiatives aimed at solving these issues? In this session, panelists from various perspectives, including startups and international organizations, will gather to discuss the importance of an ecosystem that balances social impact with economic impact, ultimately achieving well-being.

Tokyo Metropolitan Government aims to solve common urban challenges and foster the next unicorns through global scaleup by supporting the Joint Project of startups in Tokyo to address issues in overseas cities since last year. This year, the cities of Malmö (Sweden) and Jakarta (Indonesia) will serve as the testing grounds for this joint project. Malmö, known for its diversity with residents from approximately 180 different countries, leverages this strength by actively supporting startups that drive positive social change. The city has established Minc, a startup community that fosters such innovative enterprises. Jakarta, one of the largest cities in Southeast Asia, is the business, commercial, and cultural hub of Indonesia. The city has set up the "Future City Hub," a platform where government, businesses, and startups can gather to discuss, collaborate, and innovate. On the event day, representatives from each city will conduct reverse pitches aimed at addressing sustainable urban development in each city. Please join us at the venue if you are interested in learning more about the specific needs of these cities.In addition to the reverse pitches from both cities, there will be presentations from startups originating from Malmö.

SusHi Tech TOKYO 2025 海外都市リバースピッチ参加申込フォーム

With this in mind, the Mitsubishi Estate Group is steadfast in its commitment to promoting open innovation with diverse players, including startups. We are aiming for 'Business Transformation' through the innovation of existing business models, a path we are confident will lead to success. We are taking on the "Change Makers" role, actively creating change by exploring and seizing new business opportunities in growth areas and forming ecosystems in the Otemachi-Marunouchi-Yurakucho area. Our goal is not merely open innovation itself. We aim to go beyond open innovation to solve societal issues and create new value. This session will showcase our initiatives aimed at solving social issues and creating new values — going beyond open innovation.

This session explores how family offices can ignite startup investments in Japan. Unlike traditional venture capital, family offices bring unique investment perspectives and longer-term strategies. Together with leading experts, we will discuss what makes family office investments distinctive, the opportunities they see in the Japanese market, and what steps are needed to encourage more family office participation in Japan’s startup ecosystem. By shedding light on these topics, the session aims to open new possibilities for startup financing in Japan.

In this session, we delve into how women entrepreneurs thriving overseas leverage their communities to expand their businesses. We will share practical insights gained from different countries and explore keys to further global expansion. Participants will learn strategies for overcoming challenges, building networks, and taking bold steps toward new ventures. Through diverse case studies, we will offer a comprehensive look at what it takes for women leaders to succeed in international markets.

Japan, surrounded by the sea, holds significant potential for floating offshore wind power generation, particularly suited for deep waters. However, as this technology is still developing, there is a growing expectation for risk and cost reduction through innovations in both hardware and software. This session will introduce successful examples from Norway and technological advancements in Japan, exploring the future of floating offshore wind power from the perspectives of technology, finance, and international collaboration.

This session focuses on collaboration between cities and startups in tackling urban issues and fostering innovation. Representatives from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, New York City, and both Japanese and international startups will take the stage to share their experiences, policy initiatives, and perspectives on key challenges. Topics include the outlook for startup policy, the significance of city–startup cooperation, and the challenges and opportunities of global expansion. Through multifaceted discussion, the session will explore how cities and startups can deepen mutual understanding and consider future approaches to collaboration.

Japanese pop culture has evolved by integrating elements such as games, music, and fashion, with a focus on "manga" and "anime" that captivate the world. The unique appeal of "2.5D" and "kawaii culture" has emerged from these concepts. In recent years, advancements in new technologies have increasingly blurred the boundaries between 2D and 3D. This discussion will explore the new possibilities brought about by the fusion of 2D and 3D, and the strategies for Japanese pop culture to succeed globally. The panel will feature perspectives from startups, globally active VR artists, and experts in pop culture.

This session will look at the spread of renewable energy in cities and regions, using examples from advanced cities around the world as a basis for considering Japan's direction in this regard, while also taking into account their experiences and challenges. In addition, the session will explore the paths, challenges, and new opportunities for realizing sustainable green cities, with the knowledge of notable startups that are driving the development of renewable energy and VCs that are promoting investment in this field.

Join us for an engaging discussion on the challenges and strategies of passing down traditional craftsmanship and cultural heritage to future generations. Representatives from long-established companies, startups, and globally expanding enterprises will share their insights and concrete examples from their unique perspectives.
The session will particularly focus on how innovation and technology can be harnessed to adapt traditional culture to the modern world and expand its reach globally. This is a valuable opportunity to explore the new possibilities of traditional culture and envision the future of our cities.

This session will discuss sustainable development and innovation through collaboration between African startups and Japanese companies with a particular focus on the food and agriculture sector, where innovation is particularly notable among Africa's market potential and trends.

This session will showcase Japan-originated innovations and Mizuho’s initiatives aimed at achieving a sustainable future and capturing business opportunities in global growth markets, complemented by insights from the CVC of a leading global chemical company with deep expertise in global innovation. This session will also introduce efforts such as the overseas expansion support for a groundbreaking ammonia production technology and an environmentally friendly printed circuit board manufacturing technology—as well as a satellite observation data analysis technology, and the facilitation of partnerships between Japanese startups and a leading Vietnamese electronic payment unicorn holding over 60% market share.

Japan has long been a global leader in the fields of precision control, collaborative robots, and automation systems. Recently, with advancements in AI, we are entering an era of "Physical AI" where robots operate autonomously. This session will explore the impact of Physical AI on society and industry, focusing on Japan's robotics technology. We will delve into improving efficiency and addressing challenges in the logistics sector, where labor shortages are critical. The future of Physical AI and the transformative potential of robotics in logistics will be examined.

While the world is reeling from the US tariff issue, the content market is expanding on a global scale and the content industry is attracting increasing attention as a key export industry.In particular, Japanese IP is gaining fans around the world every year, and the market is expected to grow.In this session, we will discuss the creation of original IP and IP strategies for the world.

This session will introduce various approaches to autonomous driving technology and the current state of demonstration experiments. We will delve into the challenges and future prospects related to social implementation in Japan, focusing on regulations, infrastructure, and social acceptance. Additionally, we will consider the possibilities for scaling up towards commercial deployment, taking into account examples from leading countries in autonomous driving. This session aims to provide a multifaceted view of the future of sustainable mobility brought by autonomous driving from the perspectives of various players from multiple angles.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) are no longer optional but essential for innovation, performance, and talent retention. However, the approach to implementing DEI varies significantly between startups and large corporations. This session will focus on the importance of DEI for achieving rapid growth and innovation, aiming to shift the mindset of entrepreneurs and executives in large enterprises. Leaders from diverse backgrounds will explore what meaningful inclusion looks like at various stages of business growth.

In this session, ENEOS's CVC unit, the company’s Carbon Neutral Strategy Department, and WasteBox will share insights on their collaboration. In 2021, ENEOS CVC invested in WasteBox, a company focused on environmental value assessment and began joint projects. In 2024, the initiative transitioned to ENEOS's Carbon Neutral Strategy Department, leading to the joint product development for carbon offset. The panel will discuss the challenges and successes of this partnership.

Space technology is fundamentally changing urban development and infrastructure monitoring. Space-based technologies are being brought back to Earth, such as the optimization of urban infrastructure and urban development using Earth observation data, and disaster prevention measures using satellite communications, thereby contributing to improving urban resilience. Further technological innovations are also on the horizon, such as lunar development and Mars exploration. In this session, experts from startups and telecommunications companies with knowledge of the use of satellite data will explore the future of urban development based on an overview of the space industry.

Conversational AI is rapidly expanding across industries like customer support, IoT, gaming, education, and smart cities. As the global market is expected to grow 11x by 2034, real-time, low-latency communication is key to adoption.
This session covers how to build and deploy low latency voice AI agents using top LLMs like OpenAI or Gemini. Join the session to see real-world use cases and learn how to build responsive, natural conversational AI easily and affordably.

This panel discussion will bring together experts and entrepreneurs from Japan and the UK to explore how startups are driving innovation in the fields of smart cities (CityTech) and urban innovation. The session will delve into how these startups are advancing groundbreaking initiatives and fostering cross-border collaboration between cities. Panelists will share insights on the latest trends, opportunities for collaboration, and real-world experiences and lessons learned from international projects.

Toward building a society where people from various backgrounds can realize their potential, this session will focus on inclusion, specially the inclusion of people with disabilities in business, . By highlighting the advanced and concrete initiatives of leading Japanese and Western companies in this field, as well as new challenges faced by startups, this session will promote a change in the mindset of Japan's top business leaders and provide an opportunity for each individual in the audience to see inclusion as their own issue.

Fujitsu is renewing its decade-long co-creation initiatives with startups and launching a new phase of open innovation through cross-industry collaborations among the public, private, and academic sectors. The aim is to generate greater business and societal impact. By forming innovation clusters with a wide range of stakeholders, Fujitsu will drive co-creation projects that leverage each party’s strengths—whether in business domains, technological fields such as quantum computing and AI, or opportunities for real-world implementation. In this session, taking the joint initiative between Fujitsu and Kawasaki City to create “a city its citizens can be proud of” as an example, we will engage in a passionate dialogue with Kawasaki City to explore the future of open innovation.

Startups selected for the Tokyo Consortium's acceleration program, "Green Startup Support," will engage in a discussion with member companies. Weaving in keywords such as green and global, this session will explore ways to deepen open innovation through discussions of each company's specific initiatives and the realizations and challenges they have gained from them.

This session features women entrepreneurs who are driving innovative startup initiatives to address global social issues such as sustainability, caregiving, and diversity & inclusion (D&I). They will showcase real-world examples of creating social impact through their businesses and discuss the challenges and driving forces behind achieving their missions.

To address the diverse challenges facing supply chains in the food and agriculture sectors, this program introduces technological innovation, business model innovation, and cooperation with local communities from the perspective of advanced startups and incubators in the United States and India, and explores new solutions and international perspectives toward the realization of sustainable food in the future.

10 Swiss startups from various fields will pitch their innovative solutions to the audience and show how deep innovation can create a sustainable future.

The Malaysia Tech Spotlight at SushiTech Tokyo 2025 highlights Malaysia’s dynamic tech ecosystem and its growing collaborations with Japan. This 50-minute session will feature three key segments: Malaysia Tech Overview – A snapshot of Malaysia’s digital economy, showcasing emerging sectors, government initiatives, and investment opportunities. Fireside Chat: Malaysia-Japan Success Story – A discussion on a successful partnership between a Malaysian startup and a Japanese company, sharing insights on scaling, co-innovation, and market expansion. Elevated Pitch – Selected Malaysian tech companies will present their solutions, offering collaboration opportunities for Japanese investors and businesses.

From smart energy to digital healthcare, meet five high-potential startups from Thailand, selected by the National Innovation Agency (NIA), as they present innovations designed for a rapidly evolving global landscape. This session highlights cross-sector solutions—spanning Climate Tech, HealthTech, Digital Platforms, and more—built to scale, partner, and adapt to Japan’s innovation needs.

This pitching event showcases innovative technologies from 7 Seoul startups supported by SBA. It provides a platform for startups to present their cutting-edge ideas and products, highlighting their potential to shape the future of various industries.

Young entrepreneurs are redefining DEI on the global stage. This session explores their challenges, breakthroughs, and vision for a more inclusive and diverse startup ecosystem.

In the startup industry, deep-tech startups tend to be predominantly male. The low number of female students in STEM fields has also been pointed out as a contributing factor. This session will discuss support initiatives for female university students, graduate students, and researchers in these fields.

This session will focus on growth strategies for startups and women entrepreneurs to exceed traditional boundaries and open up new possibilities for themselves.
How are they solving the essential challenges of the growth phase and taking on the next challenge? We will discuss from a practical perspective what they are aiming for in their future growth and their global challenges.

This session will explore how programs supporting women entrepreneurs in Japan have evolved over the past decade and discuss the outlook for the future. We will welcome representatives from Apt Women, a program initiated by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, and EY's women entrepreneur support program to reflect on their initiatives over the past ten years.
Through concrete data and case studies, we will examine how these programs have contributed to expanding networks, facilitating fundraising, and supporting global expansion for women entrepreneurs. Additionally, we will discuss the challenges faced and explore what is needed for the next phase of support.

As the global startup landscape continues to evolve, so too do the dynamics of fundraising. While the U.S. offers a mature and competitive venture capital environment, it still grapples with capital concentration and barriers for underrepresented founders. Japan, on the other hand, is seeing rapid growth in its startup ecosystem, with both untapped potential and cultural challenges around inclusion and diversity.
This session brings together leading venture capitalists who are actively investing and operating across both the U.S. and Japan. They will share how they evaluate startups, what they see as structural strengths and weaknesses in each market, and how DEI and gender equity are (or aren't) reflected in real-world decision-making.
Rather than providing simple comparisons, this session aims to broaden participants' perspectives on what equitable access to capital truly means, deepen their understanding of the current realities of cross-border fundraising, and explore how investors and founders alike can help shape a more inclusive, resilient startup ecosystem.

AI is transforming industries worldwide, but it also highlights persistent gender inequalities in the tech sector. This session will explore whether AI can serve as a catalyst for gender equality or if it unintentionally reinforces existing biases.

Explore the exciting innovations of 12 groundbreaking startups from ASEAN & India through a series of pitches and discover how ERIA’s program in collaboration with JETRO connects you to the dynamic ASEAN & Indie startup cosystem and foster cross-border collaboration.

The top Israeli innovators showcasing and exploring their groundbreaking technologies. Join us and be inspired by pioneering companies from the Israel National Pavilion as they showcase their latest tech. InnerEye, GeoX, Forsea Foods, Seismic AI, CoffeesAI, Cool Automation, ValidIT, EyeClick

Discover why Latvia is the next big thing in tech—strong infrastructure, top talent, and full government support. Plus, catch 10 bold startup pitches you won't want to miss!

Representing just 0.13 percent of the global population, Sweden has a disproportionate amount of influence on global innovation. On several occasions, the country has topped the European Innovation Scoreboard, a yearly index published by the European Commission. This is reflected in Sweden’s vibrant startup scene who are driving game changing innovation for a greener, smarter future. Join this introduction to startups from the Swedish pavilion at SusHi Tech Tokyo 2025 – join Sweden to pioneer the possible.

Discover how Taiwan’s cutting-edge AI technology and startups are shaping the future in this dynamic session.

This session would focus on the practical challenges and strategies for scaling a startup beyond its home market. It can provide a comprehensive look at the steps, resources, and key considerations needed to successfully expand into new international markets.

Startup India is a flagship initiative by the Government of India launched in 2016 to foster innovation, support budding entrepreneurs, and build a strong startup ecosystem. The initiative offers a range of benefits including easier compliance, funding support, tax exemptions, mentorship, and access to government procurement. Through programs, partnerships, and policy interventions, Startup India aims to make India a global hub for startups by encouraging sustainable Snowth and job creation across sectors.

Enterprise Singapore invites you to a special session that explores the Snowing collaboration between Japan and Singapore in the startup and innovation space. We’ll showcase how both countries are working closely to support startup partnerships—through shared platforms, complementary deep tech strengths, and a common drive to co-innovate. With strong government and industry support on both sides, Japanese and Singaporean startups are increasingly coming together to explore new opportunities—particularly in areas such as sustainability, advanced manufacturing, and healthcare. Enterprise Singapore plays a role in facilitating this exchange, enabling startups to connect with partners, mentors, and market access opportunities across both countries. We welcome Japanese founders, investors, and corporates to discover how you can engage with Singapore’s startup ecosystem—and explore new possibilities for collaboration and Snowth.

The session presents technologies and solutions ‘Made in Italy’ and in Emilia-Romagna, a vibrant European innovation ecosystem, with world-class businesses, top level supply chains, outstanding universities and research centres, innovative and growing startups: Emilia-Romagna ranks 1st in Italy as a European innovative region, 1st for patent applications and 1st for export per capita, with a strong international mindset. The session provides an insight on how people, skills and technologies leverage digital transformation and innovative technologies, in the areas of AI and enabling technologies for healthcare, logistics and critical infrastructures.K62

In this session, the first part will feature a panel discussion on NEDO's support for deep tech startups, with two participants who have been selected for NEDO's startup support program. In the second part, there will be pitches by recipients of the NEDO Entrepreneurs Program (NEP).

The Faculty of Entrepreneurship (EMC) at Musashino University, Japan’s first and only academic department focused on entrepreneurship, has been nurturing students to boldly take on challenges and create societal value since its establishment in 2021. With growing emphasis on global talent development, EMC has launched programs such as overseas business pitch tours and international student exchanges. In 2024, the initiative expanded with the launch of EMC Global, a non-profit organization that supports globally-minded entrepreneurs beyond the student community. In this session, Dean and EMC Global Representative Yoichi Ito will address the current state of Japan and highlight the critical role of entrepreneurship and global engagement. The session continues with a panel moderated by serial entrepreneur Ikuo Hiraishi, featuring leaders from India, Singapore, and a Japanese student entrepreneur, sharing insights from their real-world global experiences and discussing what it truly means to work across borders.

This session will explore the current status and key challenges of regional startup ecosystems in a global context. Through international case studies and examples of public-private collaboration, the discussion will focus on identifying bottlenecks to sustainable growth and examining policy and ecosystem-level approaches to strengthen locally-driven innovation.