Session Speakers | SusHi Tech Tokyo 2025

Agata NowickaFemale Foundry
Managing Partner Startup Support Organizations

■ Career

Agata Nowicka is the Managing Partner of Visionaries—an AI incubator launched in partnership with Google, focused on accelerating growth of the most ambitious female entrepreneurs in Europe with AI. With 12 years of experience as a VC investor and founder across the UK and the US, Agata is also the Founder of Female Foundry, a network of 7,000+ VC investors and founders in Europe, and the author of the Female Innovation Index—Europe's largest report mapping the funnel of innovation driven by female entrepreneurs.

Akito ArimaBeyond Next Ventures Inc.
Partner VCs & investors

■ Career

Akito Arima joined Marubeni Corporation in April 2017. In the Grain Division, he was involved in all aspects of agribusiness from production to sales through the trading business. In addition, he is also involved in start-up investments by setting up an in-house investment team focusing on agri-tech.
He joined BNV in August 2019. Engaged as an investment manager focusing on agri-tech, food-tech and other life-tech sectors in general.
His goal is to create an agri-tech ecosystem. I would like to support the creation of an ecosystem of industry-academia-government-private cooperation and global expansion.

Alexandra BecksteinQAI Ventures
CEO VCs & investors

■ Career

Founder and CEO of QAI Ventures, a company dedicated to investing in and accelerating Quantum and Quantum AI startups based in Basel and Calgary. She played a pivotal role in the >700M uptownBasel project, laying the foundation for a robust startup ecosystem. With a science background and advanced business expertise, she’s a two-time founder, including a renewable energy company in Berlin. Alexandra brings a wealth of experience across startups, SMEs, and government, and is the author of "Bossing It – The Future Belongs to the Bold."

Alissa MikyAqua Theon Inc.
CEO Startups

■ Career

Born in NY in 1992, Alissa helped launch a flower brand during her time at Waseda University, growing it into Rakuten's No.1. She gained experience in a sake startup, Fujimaki Department Store, and an Israeli trading company. In September 2019, she founded Aqua Theon inc. (formerly Cashi Cake inc.) in LA, with the mission of ‘Bringing rural Japan to the world’. The company focuses on seaweed tech for food, alternative plastics, and medical capsules. Misaky.Tokyo, the marine plant-based Japanese sweets brand, has 1.4 million TikTok followers and is expanding nationwide.

Arne RostTUM Venture Labs Management gGmbH
Managing Director TUM Venture Lab Robotics / AI Educational Institutions

■ Career

Dr.-Ing. Arne Rost is the Managing Director of the TUM Venture Lab Robotics / AI. This early-stage incubator is based in Munich, Germany, and currently supports more than 75 start-ups. The TUM Venture Labs are a joint venture of TUM and UnternehmerTUM. TUM is one of the best technical universities and is among the TOP 5 in the field of robotics / AI worldwide. UnternehmerTUM is Europe's leading center for start-ups and is ranked #1 for the second year in a row.

Ashley GroshBreakthrough Energy
Vice President VCs & investors

■ Career

Ashley has spent the entirety of her nearly two-decade career working at the intersection of finance and climate innovation. Prior to joining Breakthrough Energy as a Vice President to lead the Breakthrough Energy Fellows program, she spent 15 years at Wells Fargo as a thought leader working across several business units, supporting overall ESG, Cleantech Commercial Banking, and Sustainable Finance strategies. At Wells she pioneered a $100 million impact fund the Innovation Incubator (IN2), focused on speeding up the path to market for early-stage clean technologies. IN2 program’s 72 portfolio companies have gone on to raise $2.3B in follow on funding from external sources.

Today, Ashley leads the BE Discovery and Fellows efforts, continuing to immerse herself among the clean tech ecosystem - working alongside capital partners, entrepreneurs, universities, incubators and national labs. This early-stage, global, effort focuses on funding pre venture stages of innovation, to fill critical scientific gaps where the discovery of new solutions can lead to significant impacts in the hardest to abate sectors. Grosh earned a B.A. degree in Economics and Finance from the University of Colorado at Boulder, as a student athlete on the CU NCAA Division One women’s soccer team.

Atsushi Deguchi The University of Tokyo
Executive Director and Vice President, Professor at Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, Educational Institutions

■ Career

Dr. A. Deguchi obtained the Doctor of Engineering Degree in 1990 from Graduate School of Engineering at the University of Tokyo (UTokyo). After working as an assistant professor at the UTokyo, associate professor and Professor at Kyushu University, he has been a professor at the UTokyo since 2011. He specializes in urban planning and design, and has received numerous awards, including the Ishikawa Prize from the City Planning Institute of Japan both in year of 2015 and in 2016. He is the author of many books, including “Society 5.0: People-Centric Super-Smart Society” (co-authored, published by Springer). He has been the Secretary General of Asian Planning Schools Association (APSA) since 2015, President of the City Planning Institute of Japan in 2020-2021, President of the Area Management Network of Japan from 2024, and other academic association presidents. He has also served as President of the UDC Initiative, Director of the Urban Design Center Kashiwa-no-ha (UDCK), and General Coordinator of the Kashiwa-no-ha Smart City Consortium.

Audrey TangGovernment of Taiwan
Cyber Ambassador-at-large and 1st Digital Minister (2016-2024) Public Institutions

■ Career

Audrey Tang, Taiwan’s Cyber Ambassador-at-large and 1st Digital Minister (2016-2024), is celebrated for her pioneering efforts in digital democracy. Named one of TIME’s “100 Most Influential People in AI” in 2023, Tang was instrumental in shaping Taiwan’s internationally acclaimed COVID-19 response and in safeguarding the 2024 presidential and legislative elections from foreign cyber interference.

Tang is now focused on broadening her vision of Plurality — technology for collaborative diversity — to inspire global audiences.

Beth BechdolThe Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)
Deputy Director-General Public Institutions

■ Career

Beth Bechdol is Deputy Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). She oversees FAO’s work on Emergencies and Resilience, Resource Mobilization, South-South and Triangular Cooperation, key technical programs on land, water, and plant production and protection, as well as FAO’s Committee on Agriculture and the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) Secretariat.
Before joining FAO, she was President and CEO of AgriNovus Indiana and held leadership roles at Ice Miller LLP and the Indiana State Department of Agriculture. She also served as Chief of Staff at the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Economist on the Senate Agriculture Committee.

Bingbin Yu Aikido Technologies
Co-Founder and Chief Engineer Startups

■ Career

Bingbin Yu is co-founder and Chief Engineer of Aikido Technologies, based in San Francisco. She has a background of Naval Architecture and 10+ years of experience in floating offshore wind foundation design, including working on the world’s first few multi-MW floating wind projects. At Aikido, Bingbin and her team are developing an innovative floating platform that enables deployment of floating wind at commercial scale. Bingbin holds a PhD. in Naval Architecture from the University of Michigan. She is a believer in renewable energy and wants to dedicate her career to be part of the solution.

Caroline WinnettBerkeley SkyDeck
Executive Director Educational Institutions

■ Career

Caroline is Executive Director of Berkeley SkyDeck, UC Berkeley's startup accelerator and incubator. Berkeley SkyDeck is recognized as one of the world's leading startup accelerators. Caroline launched the Berkeley SkyDeck Fund, a $90 million VC fund investing in SkyDeck startups that shares half of fund profits with UC Berkeley. Caroline co-founded the pioneer company in the neuromarketing industry, NeuroFocus, which was acquired by Nielsen. Before her career in startups, Caroline was a professional concert violinist. Caroline received her MBA from the Haas School of Business at UC Berkeley.

Chris FabianGiga / UNICEF
Giga Co-founder Public Institutions

■ Career

Chris is a technology executive and co-founder of Giga, a UNICEF-ITU initiative to connect every school in the world to the internet. He focuses on leveraging technology and global policy to tackle major global issues. Chris has advised UN Secretary-Generals, led UNICEF’s Innovation Unit, and worked with world leaders on responsible tech investments. He has built and scaled tech companies, pioneered open-source projects, and co-founded the Digital Public Goods Alliance. Recognized by Time and WIRED, he has also held advisory roles in AI and global innovation initiatives.

Christophe JurczakQuantonation
Managing Partner VCs & investors

■ Career

Christophe Jurczak, who obtained his PhD in quantum physics under the supervision of ‘22 Nobel Laureate A. Aspect, has held roles in government, energy and defense, before joining Silicon Valley pioneer QC Ware. Since 2018, Christophe is founder and managing partner of Quantonation, the first VC firm dedicated to quantum technologies, and the largest early-stage investor in the sector with 32 portfolio companies worldwide and 211m€ AUM. Christophe sits on the boards of several startups and scale-ups as well as not for profits, playing a key role in shaping the future of quantum technology.

Chua Kee LockVertex Holdings
CEO VCs & investors

■ Career

Mr Chua Kee Lock is the Group President/CEO of Vertex Holdings (VH), a Singapore-headquartered venture capital investment holding company. VH is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Temasek with over US$6.9B asset under management focusing on IT and healthcare sector.
The Vertex Group is a global VC network comprising Vertex Ventures (VV) Japan, VV China, VV Israel, VV US, VV SEA & India, VV HC, and Vertex Growth. Each of these funds is managed by independent and separate General Partnerships and investment teams, with VH providing anchor funding alongside significant 3rd party capital commitments.

David HaSakana AI
Co-founder and CEO Startups

■ Career

David Ha is the Co-founder and CEO of Sakana AI. He previously worked as a Research Scientist at Google, leading the Google Brain Research team in Japan. His research interests include complex self-organizing systems and the self-advancement of artificial intelligence. Prior to joining Google, he was a derivatives trader, serving as Managing Director and head of interest rates trading at Goldman Sachs in Japan. He obtained his undergraduate degree in engineering science from the University of Toronto, and a PhD from the University of Tokyo.

Dhanin Chearavanont Senior Chairman of the C.P. Group Business Corporations

■ Career

Mr. Dhanin CHEARAVANONT is Senior Chairman of Charoen Pokphand Group. The CP operates businesses in Asia, Europe and North America related to agrifoods, modern trade, telecommunications, property and financial services. The “Three Benefits Principle” describes his business outlook, namely benefits to country, to people and to company. It encapsulates the spirit and challenge of CP’s global mission. He was bestowed The Order of the Rising Sun (Gold & Silver Star) by Japanese Government in 2023 in recognition of his contribution to the promotion of relations between Japan and Thailand.

Fernando FabreKauffman Fellows
CEO Startup Support Organizations,VCs & investors

■ Career

Fernando is the CEO of Kauffman Fellows, the venture capitalists' leading education and community platform.

He is a co-founder and partner (inactive) at Matterscale Ventures, a venture capital firm investing in Latin America. He also co-founded Columbia University's eLab, a fellowship for global entrepreneurs in edtech/workforce, and is an Adjunct Professor at Columbia University.

Before this, he was the president of Endeavor, a global organization that selects, supports, and invests in the world's top entrepreneurs.

He lives in New York with his family.

Gen TsuchikawaSony Ventures Corp.
Former Chairman VCs & investors

■ Career

Gen spent almost 20 years at Sony group corporation and retired last September. At Sony he built Sony ventures from scratch to its current form and have also run investor relations, mergers and acquisitions, business developments globally, prior to such. Gen currently is the non-executive Director to NASDAQ listed Global-e and also is the senior advisor to Deloitte Tohmatsu venture support. Before Sony, Gen worked at Merill Lynch and the industrial Bank of Japan. Gen holds a BA from Hitotsubashi Univ and MBA from Stanford University.

Hanhee Paik IBM
Director, Quantum Algorithms Centers and Quantum-Centric Supercomputing Partnerships, IBM Quantum Business Corporations

■ Career

Dr. Hanhee Paik is the Director of Algorithm Centers and Quantum-Centric Supercomputing (QCSC) Partnerships. Dr. Paik has been a quantum computing scientist for more than 20 years. Dr. Paik was elected an American Physical Society Fellow in 2021 for pioneering a novel superconducting qubit architecture that catalyzed the commercialization of superconducting quantum computing and contributing to the advancement quantum computing research in the industry. She led the IBM Quantum Japan team until March 2025 when she became the Director to lead the QCSC Partnerships in Japan and Illinois.

Hiro NishiguchiStartup Genome Japan
President Startup Support Organizations

■ Career

He is a serial entrepreneur committed to revitalizing Japanese society by fostering innovation management in established companies and building a thriving startup ecosystem. He serves as President of Startup Genome Japan, Inc., Managing Director of GEN Japan, and Professor at Sophia University. A graduate of Sophia University and Kellogg School of Management (MBA), he blends academic insight with hands-on leadership. He is a member of Keizai Doyukai and advises national policy as part of the Green Innovation Project Subcommittee (METI) and as a Moonshot Ambassador (Cabinet Office). Certified as an Innovation Management Professional by RISE, his career includes roles at Long-Term Credit Bank of Japan, World Bank Group, Mercer, and INCJ.

Hiroki KogaOishii Farm Corporation
Co-Founder & CEO Startups

■ Career

Hiroki Koga is the co-founder & CEO of Oishii, the world’s largest indoor vertical strawberry farm. As a vertical farming industry expert with a decade of experience in the field, he leads the innovative company that is transforming the way we grow food today. Prior to co-founding Oishii in 2016, Koga worked as a consultant, where he focused on the pharmaceutical industry and biotechnology before spearheading the firm’s entry into agriculture technology consulting. Koga earned his MBA from the University of California, Berkeley, and graduated with a B.S. in economics from Keio University.

Hiromi OkudaWizGroup, Inc.
CEO Startup Support Organizations

■ Career

President of WizGroup, Inc. Graduated from the University of Mumbai (formerly National Bombay University) with a Master's degree in Social Welfare. Founded an IT-focused conference business in 1991. Established WizGroup, Inc. in 2001. In 2013, founded Takaranoyama Co., Ltd. in a depopulated area, initiating projects to explore IT solutions for local social issues. Serves as chairman of the judging committee for the Ministry of the Environment's "Environmental Startup Award," a judge for the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry's "Unexplored IT Talent Discovery and Development Project," and a committee member for the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare's "Medical Venture Promotion Council." Author of "Do Only What Excites You!" (PHP Publishing) and others. From 2024, serving as the overall producer of the global event TechGALA.

Hironori KamezawaMitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, Inc.
President & Group CEO Business Corporations

■ Career

Since joining the company in 1986, Hironori “Hiro” Kamezawa has been a pioneer in financial services and a leader in crisis management, in a career marked by groundbreaking roles.

Early in his career, Hiro spearheaded the field of derivative trading and Asset-Liability-Management at the Bank, and equity secondary business at Securities. Since 2004, Hiro has developed the Bank’s credit portfolio management business, and later navigated MUFG through the global financial crisis, the Great East Japan Earthquake, and the introduction of negative interest rates, while serving as General Manager.

In 2014, he was appointed Deputy CEO of the Americas, based in New York, also assuming the region’s role of Chief Risk Officer and leading seminal risk-management enhancement projects. In 2016, Hiro returned to Tokyo to serve as Chief Data Officer; and later as Global Chief Information Officer and Chief Digital Transformation Officer, driving the transformation of existing businesses, processes, and culture of MUFG.

Hiro earned a master’s degree in mathematics, from the Graduate School of Mathematical Sciences at the University of Tokyo in 1986.

Hirotaka Sahashi STATION Ai Corp.
CEO Startup Support Organizations

■ Career

After joining SoftBank Corp., he worked in the Human Resources department and later in the President's Office of SoftBank Group Corp., where he was responsible for strategic management. Following the Great East Japan Earthquake, he served as the Head of Business Planning at SB Energy Corp., overseeing renewable energy projects. From 2014, he promoted the development of an in-house entrepreneur program and hands-on support at SB Innovation Corp. Since September 2021, he has been seconded to STATION Ai in his current role.

Jessica OwensInitiate Ventures
Founding Partner VCs & investors

■ Career

Jessica Owens is a Founding General Partner at Initiate Ventures, where she funds & co-founds transformative companies at the intersection of life sciences, healthcare, and technology. Jessica is an experienced venture investor, serial entrepreneur, and scientist. She has been part of the founding team of seven start-ups, including GRAIL, where she led various business & commercial functions before the company’s $8B acquisition. She was also an investor at Kleiner Perkins. Today, she applies her experience to support early-stage startups that possess the potential to improve millions of lives.

Joshua DavidHigh Line
Co-Founder Experts

■ Career

Joshua David worked with Robert Hammond to found Friends of the High Line (FHL) in 1999, with the goal of saving the High Line elevated rail viaduct from demolition and transforming it into a one-of-a-kind public landscape. FHL partnered with the City of New York to design, fund, and build the High Line, which opened in five stages, between 2009 and 2023. The High Line now welcomes millions of visitors each year and is maintained by FHL with funds raised almost entirely from private, philanthropic sources. In 2023, David stepped down and turned leadership of FHL to Alan van Capelle.

Junko Foley Daidomon Co., Ltd.
President Business Corporations

■ Career

After graduating from Kobe College, she worked at the Osaka Prefectural Government as an interpreter for the Governor of Osaka. She then worked as a simultaneous and consecutive Japanese-English interpreter at international conferences and other events. In 1994, she founded Maid Japan Co., Ltd., an online database company. In 1998, she co-founded Silver Egg Technology Co., Ltd. with Mr. Thomas Foley. The company was listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange Mothers Market in September 2016. In 2010, she became President of Daidomon Co., Ltd. She currently serves as a Standing Executive Member of the Kansai Association of Corporate Executives, a Director of the Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition, and a Director of the Osaka Industrial Promotion Organization, among other roles.

Kathy MatsuiMPower Partners Fund L.P.
General Partner VCs & investors

■ Career

Kathy is a founding General Partner of MPower Partners, Japan’s first ESG-integrated global venture capital fund. She is the former Vice Chair of Goldman Sachs Japan and Chief Japan Equity Strategist. Her groundbreaking ʻWomenomicsʼ research spurred the Japanese government to promote gender diversity, and she has advised corporations on governance and diversity best practices. She has an MA from Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies and an AB from Harvard.

Katsuhiko HibinoTokyo University of the Arts
President Educational Institutions

■ Career

Born in Gifu Prefecture in 1958. He began his career as an artist in the early 1980s while studying at Tokyo University of the Arts, and his expansion of the realm of expression that combines social media and artistic activities has attracted a lot of attention. Since then, he has participated in the Sydney Biennale and the Venice Biennale, and has held solo and group exhibitions and engaged in a wide range of activities across fields both in Japan and abroad. He also continues to promote workshops and art projects that take advantage of the characteristics of local places. He is currently the director of the Gifu Prefectural Museum of Art and the Contemporary Art Museum, Kumamoto, and has been engaged in education and research at his alma mater, Tokyo University of the Arts, since 1995, and has served as the president since 2022. He has launched the Art Future Research Center, pursues further possibilities for art in the modern world, and actively collaborates with companies and local governments, continuing to research and practice "art is the power to live."

Ken Shigematsuinspiring dots inc. Founder, CEO/
Laguarda.Low Architects Principal Experts

■ Career

Ken Shigematsu is redefining urban planning and architectural design by fostering collaboration with experts from diverse backgrounds. With 20 years of experience, he has led projects from master planning to mixed-use developments in 25+ countries. His focus is on enhancing quality of life by creating "places for creativity"—spaces where people can freely explore and express their curiosity. Beyond architecture, he develops cutting-edge technologies, including infrastructure systems, software applications, and AI-powered Smart City Digital Twins.

Kuniyoshi Mabuchi XinobiAI
Co-CEO Startups

■ Career

In 2009, appointed as General Manager of Tribal DDB Tokyo, a digital agency under the Omnicom Group, successfully launching its business in Japan. In 2012, led the revitalization of OgilvyOne Japan as its President, part of the WPP Group. After serving as SVP & Partner at FleishmanHillard in 2016, he became an Executive Advisor at PwC Consulting LLC in 2017. In 2018, as an executive at Facebook Japan, he achieved 35 million MAUs for Instagram and drove revenue growth in APAC. Since 2020, he has been a Partner at PwC Consulting LLC. In 2023, he joined Matsuo Laboratory Inc. as a Partner. He is also a member of the Japan Deep Learning Association and the Japanese Society for Artificial Intelligence. Starting his current role in December 2024.

Ladi DelanoMoove
Co-CEO and Co-Founder Startups

■ Career

Ladi Delano is a British-born Nigerian entrepreneur and the Co-Founder & Co-CEO of Moove, leading its expansion into 19 cities across six continents since 2020. Under his leadership, Moove is building the world’s largest fleet and best-in-class technologies that power mobility platforms. Its flagship Drive-to-Own (DTO) product democratises access to vehicle ownership with a revolutionary revenue-based financing model. To date, Moove’s customers have completed over 50 million trips in Moove-financed vehicles.

Lisa LambertQuantum Industry Canada (QIC)
Chief Executive Officer Startup Support Organizations

■ Career

Lisa Lambert is CEO of Quantum Industry Canada (QIC), the country's industry-led quantum technology consortium. She leads QIC's mission to transform Canada's quantum capabilities into global business success and national prosperity. A recognized leader in innovation strategy, Lisa champions collaborative approaches to addressing complex challenges. Her career spans pioneering initiatives at the intersection of science, technology, and society, where she has successfully united diverse stakeholders to drive transformative change.

Maja AndjelkovicWorld Bank Group
Senior Private Sector Specialist Public Institutions

■ Career

Maja has led World Bank innovation and entrepreneurship teams at for over a decade, supporting R&D and startup capabilities in client countries in Africa, Asia and Europe. Her experience includes building an NLP company, advising policymakers on the links between sustainability and technology, and fundraising. She has led raises totaling over $1B from institutional and private investors. Maja holds a PhD from the University of Oxford on entrepreneurship ecosystems, an LLM from the University of Kent on Internet governance and a B.Comm from Queen’s University.

Mari KogisoSDG Impact Japan
Co CEO VCs & investors

■ Career

Mari is a sustainable finance expert with extensive background in inclusive business, sustainable finance, and entrepreneurship. Mari founded the SDG Impact Japan to promote ESG and impact finance in Japan and Asia and serve as CoCEO. Before the SDG Impact Japan, She was the global head of diversity and human rights of the Fastretailing Group. Before FR, she led the establishment of the Asia Women Impact Fund, USD 100 million Impact Fund at the Sasakawa Peace Foundation, with the objective to catalyze capital to improve the lives of women and remove gender barriers in Asia. Mari held various senior positions at the World Bank Group in Washington DC and Tokyo including the representative of the MIGA Tokyo.

Mariko NishimuraHEART CATCH Inc.
CEO, Producer Business Corporations

■ Career

Started as an IT engineer at IBM Japan, with roles at Adobe and Bascule before co-founding HEART CATCH (Tokyo) in 2014 and HEART CATCH LA (Los Angeles) in 2020. Leveraging expertise in technology and creativity, supports startups in Japan and the US through investment, growth, and operations, while collaborating with Japanese companies and municipalities on new business initiatives. Serves as a J-Startup supporter, member of the Expert Committee for Japan Open Innovation Awards (Cabinet Office), instructor at Art Thinking Collective (ESCP), Guest Professor at Musashino Art University, Forbes Japan columnist, and Fellow for Hamamatsu and Shizuoka.

Masataka OsakiNVIDIA
Japan Country Manager, VP Worldwide Field Operations Business Corporations

■ Career

Joined Texas Instruments Japan in 1991. After gaining experience as an engineer and in sales, he engaged in various management roles for over 20 years, working with products such as DSP, analog, and DLP.
In 2014, he joined NVIDIA. He has been leading the market expansion of products and solutions such as graphics for PC gaming, industrial design, scientific computing workstations, and supercomputers, focusing on the popularization of AI computing.

Miki TsusakaMicrosoft Japan Co., Ltd.
Representative Director and President, Microsoft Japan Business Corporations

■ Career

Miki Tsusaka is the Representative Director and President of Microsoft Japan. Under her leadership, she focuses on enabling the acceleration of Japan's digital transformation through Microsoft’s global and local expertise of our leading productivity and platform solutions. She will also build and reinforce Microsoft’s reputation in Japan as a trusted partner for individuals, organizations, and governments.
She is a former Senior Partner and Managing Director at Boston Consulting Group.
Tsusaka holds a Bachelor of AB from Harvard, and an MBA from Harvard Business School. She was recognized by Fortune as among the 100 most powerful women in the world and in Asia in 2024.

Min Kim500 Global
General Partner VCs & investors

■ Career

Min Kim is a General Partner at 500 Global, managing Korea funds, with primary markets in the US, Japan, MENA and Korea. The fund's thesis is rooted in Korea’s strengths in software, healthcare, clean tech, hardware, chemicals, AI Agent, content, and K-beauty (Industry agnostics). These industries hold immense potential, attracting global founders eager to build startups and businesses leveraging these assets beyond Korea.

Miyuki IiyamaJapan International Research Center for Agricultural Sciences (JIRCAS)
Program Director, Information Program Public Institutions

■ Career

Originally trained as an economist, Miyuki spent her earlier professional career in Africa to do the evaluation of socio-economic and environmental viability of natural resource management, including agroforestry, within smallholder systems. She later joined JIRCAS where she has been engaged in research on the role of science, technology and innovation in driving global food systems transformation as Program Director of Information Program. She was selected as an expert for WGIII, IPCC AR7 Scoping Meeting.

Masayoshi TerabeDeloitte Tohmatsu Consulting LLC
Chief of Quantum Technology Startup Support Organizations

■ Career

He has worked as a quantum project leader for an automotive manufacturer and a trading and investment company. He led numerous world-first demonstrations and the largest number of overseas startup investments in the quantum field in Japan, and has a broad global network.
He also serves as an advisor to venture capital, overseas quantum startups and the chairman of the national quantum project. He has served as a visiting associate professor at Tohoku University.

Nobutake SuzukiMUFG Innovation Partners Co., Ltd.
President and CEO Business Corporations

■ Career

Nobutake has joined MUFG Bank in 2018 as a managing director in charge of open innovation of MUFG Group, and he has been the President and CEO of MUIP since January 2019. Before joining MUFG, he started his career as a venture capitalist at Global Brain, an independent venture capital firm in Japan, in 2002, and had experiences of investing in both Japanese and overseas startups and managing corporate venture capital funds.
Nobutake started his career as a banker at MUFG Bank, where he was in the Industrial Research Division in New York Branch, and other divisions.

Nobuyuki Akimoto AT PARTNERS, Inc.
Co-Founder and General Partner Startup Support Organizations

■ Career

Nobuyuki Akimoto is Co-Founder and General Partner at AT PARTNERS, Inc., a Tokyo-based Fund of Funds investing in top global VC firms. He began his career at NTT in 1987, leading telecom projects across Asia. He later joined NTT DOCOMO, serving in executive roles including COO of DOCOMO Labs USA and CEO of DOCOMO Capital, spending nine years in the U.S. leading R&D and startup investments. After returning to Japan, he launched NTT DOCOMO Ventures and managed investments for DOCOMO and NTT Holdings. He is a former JVCA board member and now a Fellow.

Noriyuki KojimaKotoba Technologies, K.K.
CEO Startups

■ Career

Earned a Ph.D. in Computer Science from Cornell University. Awarded the Best Paper Award at EMNLP 2022, one of the leading conferences in AI. Specializes in natural language processing and computer vision, with a particular focus on large language models. Currently a co-founder of the LLM Fugaku project, a cross-organizational initiative involving Japanese universities and companies, utilizing Fugaku (then the world's second-fastest supercomputer).

Previously worked at Facebook and Hugging Face, a leading company in open-source AI models and data infrastructure. Also a recipient of the Masayoshi Son Foundation Scholarship.

Patrick NewellShizenkan University
Professor Educational Institutions

■ Career

Patrick has been a social entrepreneur in Japan since 1991. With his expertise in education, design, strategy, technology, and global communication, he strives to connect Japan with the world. Patrick co-founded Tokyo International School in 1995 and TEDxTokyo in 2008, sparking the global TEDx movement, Japan’s first SingularityU Summit in 2017, and is a professor at Shizenkan University. He also advises major Japanese organizations to expand their global strategy, branding, and merger integration.

Phil WickhamSozo Ventures
Executive Managing Director VCs & investors

■ Career

Phil Wickham is Co-Founder and Executive Managing Director of Sozo Ventures, a $1.7-billion venture fund with offices in Redwood City and Tokyo. Sozo has, for over 15 years, invested in disruptive data science start-ups with global ambitions, specifically supporting them with early, intelligent engagement with Japanese markets. Notable successes include Palantir, Twitter (X), Square, MongoDB, Coinbase and Zoom. Sozo is also an early investor in Applied Intuition, Anduril, Saronic, Grammarly, Deel, Chainalysis, Need and Carbon Robotics. Of the 78 companies in Sozo’s portfolio, 22 are unicorns.

Sabrina ManiscalcoAlgorithmiq Inc
CEO and cofounder Startups

■ Career

Sabrina Maniscalco is CEO and co-founder of Algorithmiq Ltd, a startup focusing on quantum algorithms and software, and a Professor of Quantum Information and Logic at the University of Helsinki.
Sabrina Maniscalco has been working for over twenty years on quantum science and technology.
She has published over 250 scientific publications on quantum science and technologies in international refereed journals, receiving over 10000 citations.

Saikiran Reddy BOMMAREDDY Lincore
Co-Founder & CEO Startups

■ Career

Saikiran is the Co-founder & CEO of Lincore, a spin-off from the National University of Singapore (NUS), focused on recovering Lithium, Nickel, Cobalt, and Manganese from battery waste and processing them into low-carbon precursors for manufacturing new batteries. As a Breakthrough Energy-SEA Fellow based in Singapore, Saikiran is advancing sustainable, low-cost, and modular solutions for critical materials refining to enable circular battery supply chains. He holds an MSc in Chemical Engineering from NUS and a B.Tech from India.

Shunsuke Aoki Turing Inc.
Co-founder, Director Startups

■ Career

Holds a Ph.D. in Computer Engineering from Carnegie Mellon University. In the U.S., he was engaged in the development and research of autonomous driving systems, including the creation of cyber traffic signals and the development of autonomous driving functions for major automotive manufacturers. Since 2021, he has been serving as an Assistant Professor at the National Institute of Informatics, where he leads the Aoki Lab. He also holds concurrent positions as a Visiting Associate Professor at Nagoya University and a JST PRESTO researcher. Selected as one of Japan's Innovators Under 35 by MIT Technology Review Japan.

Simone SeveriniAmazon Web Services (AWS)
General Manager, Quantum Technologies Business Corporations

■ Career

Simone leads the Quantum Technologies program at AWS, where he launched Amazon Braket, the first cloud service to integrate quantum processors, and helped establish the AWS Centers for Quantum Computing (with Caltech) and Quantum Networking (with Harvard). As a UCL Professor of Physics of Information, he initiated collaborations with Google, Lockheed Martin, and Siemens. He co-founded pioneering quantum startups like Cambridge Quantum (now Quantinuum) and PhaseCraft and has advised research organizations and major venture capital firms globally.

Soichiro Takashima Fukuoka City
Mayor Public Institutions

■ Career

After working as a commercial broadcaster, he became the youngest mayor of Fukuoka City in 2010 at the age of 36. Since then, he has consistently won record-breaking votes in every election and is currently serving his fourth term. Under his leadership, Fukuoka has ranked first among designated cities in population growth, tax revenue growth, and business startu p rates. Utilizing the National Strategic Special Zone designation, he has implemented various deregulations, including the Startup Visa, and established the Startup City Promotion Council, significantly driving Japan's startup scene. As a regional representative, he actively participates in key government meetings and advisory roles such as the Administrative Reform Promotion Council, the Impact Consortium, and the Council for Promotion of Foreign Direct Investment in Japan, work ing energetically for the future of Japan.

Takahiro AnnoManagement Machine, Inc.
CEO Startups

■ Career

AI engineer, entrepreneur, and science fiction writer: After graduating from Kaisei High School, he went on to study at the University of Tokyo. He graduated from the laboratory of Prof. Yutaka MATSUO, who serves as chair of the Cabinet Office's AI Strategy Council.
After working at the Boston Consulting Group, he founded AI chatbot company BEDORE Inc. (now PKSHA Communication) and Legal-tech company MNTSQ Inc. (co-founded the latter), and is involved in transforming social systems through digital technology.
A Mitou Super Creator, a young talent with exceptional abilities in the software-related fields selected by IPA: Member of the Digital Agency's Digital Legislation Working Group. Member of the Science Fiction Writers of Japan.
In 2024, he ran for Tokyo governor on a platform of realizing digital democracy, and became an advisor to the GovTech Tokyo General Incorporated Foundation, where he practices two-way communication using AI.

Talitha Amalia Solve Education Foundation
Co-founder Startups

■ Career

Talitha Amalia is the co-founder of Solve Education! Foundation, a social impact organisation empowering young people through educational technology. She leads its operations, expanding access to quality education for underserved youth in Asia-Pacific via an AI-powered learning platform. Beyond Solve Education!, Talitha is a research consultant and writer for think tank organisations. Her expertise lies at the intersection of digital technology and social impact, exploring strategies to harness innovation for meaningful, systemic change.

Taro ShimadaToshiba Corporation
Representative Director, Corporate Officer, President and CEO Business Corporations

■ Career

Taro Shimada started his career at ShinMaywa Industries, Ltd., and after working at Siemens K.K., he joined Toshiba in October 2018 as Corporate Digital Business Chief Strategy Officer.
In April 2019, he became Chief Digital Officer, responsible for Toshiba’s digital transformation and for strategic business creation and promotion. He was appointed CEO & Representative Director of Toshiba Data Corporation in February 2020, and President and CEO of Toshiba Digital Solutions Corporation in April 2020. In March 2022, Mr. Shimada was appointed to take the reins at Toshiba, as President & CEO.
In May 2022, he was appointed Chairman of Q-STAR (Quantum STrategic industry Alliance for Revolution), a consortium that promotes business creation with quantum technologies.

Teruo FujiiThe University of Tokyo
President Educational Institutions

■ Career

Dr. Teruo Fujii is the 31st President of the University of Tokyo (UTokyo). Prior to taking the President’s office in April 2021, he was Executive Vice President in charge of finance and external relations for the university. He also served as the Director General of the Institute of Industrial Sciences (IIS) of the university from 2015 to 2018. He received his Ph.D. in engineering from UTokyo in 1993 and held research positions at IIS and RIKEN prior to becoming a professor of IIS in 2007.
Dr. Fujii was an advisor to the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) from 2005 to 2007, co-director of LIMMS-CNRS/IIS, a joint research laboratory between CNRS of France, and IIS, from 2007 to 2014, and the President of the Chemical and Biological Microsystems Society (CBMS) from 2017 to 2019. From March 2021 to February 2024, he held the position of an Executive Member (part-time) of the Council for Science, Technology and Innovation, Cabinet Office, Government of Japan. Since 2019, he has served as the Chair of the Subdivision on Ocean Development of the Council for Science and Technology (MEXT).
Dr. Fujii’s research specializes in applied microfluidics systems and underwater technology.

Toshiaki HigashiharaHitachi, Ltd.
Executive Chairman, Representative Executive Officer and Director Business Corporations

■ Career

As Executive Chairman of Hitachi, Ltd. after serving as Executive Chairman & CEO since 2021 and President & CEO since 2016, Higashihara leads a global organization of over 500 companies and approximately 270,000 employees.
Prior to his current position, Higashihara has held several executive leadership positions in Hitachi, including President of Hitachi Power Europe GmbH, President of Hitachi Plant Technologies, Ltd.
Higashihara holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical Engineering from Tokushima University and a Master of Science in Computer Science from Boston University.

Will PrendergastFrontline Ventures
General Partner VCs & investors

■ Career

Will is a General Partner at Frontline, and co-founded the firm in 2012 with an ambition to build a more collaborative approach to funding globally ambitious founders.

He has led over 30 investments at Frontline, backing founders in a range of industries and geographies
He was a director and first cheque investor in companies including Pointy (acquired by Google), Britebill (acq. Amdocs), and AMCS (>$2bn valuation). Will’s sectoral focus is on fintech and he represents Frontline on the boards of Finbourne and Appital.

Will is a Kauffman Fellow and a professionally trained chef.

Wui Liang HENGBLOCK71, NUS Enterprise, National University of Singapore
General Partner Educational Institutions

■ Career

Wui Liang is an experienced business leader passionate about leveraging technology to solve business needs. He has a track record in leading regional multi-disciplinary programs in fintech, banking and insurance. A builder at heart, he has grown ideas from scratch into businesses. Having started 2 companies and helping a Series C company expand regionally, he is now focused on supporting the startup ecosystem at BLOCK71, NUS Enterprise.

Ynse DeinemaRoboat
CEO & Co-founder Startups

■ Career

Ynse Deinema is co-founder & CEO for Roboat. He is an experienced sailor and also a robotics enthusiast. Together with his team in Amsterdam they work hard to optimize waterborne logistics and mobility in the urban environment. “Autonomous navigation will lower costs and also introduce a safer and more flexible operation”.

Aaron Wang Bosch (China) Investment Ltd.
Senior Open Innovation Expert Business Corporations

■ Career

- 10+ years working experience in Automotive Industry
- Ford Motor (AP) R&E Co., Ltd. – Program Management
- Beijing Benz Automotive Co., Ltd. – Commercial Purchasing
- Bosch (China) Investment Ltd. – Open Innovation Manager
- Bosch Management Trainee – JMP project
- Cost Model Analysis & Benchmarking expert
- Market Intelligence and Research
- Open Innovation Eco-system
- Startup Scouting and Evaluation
- Industry 4.0, Industrial Robotics, Humanoid Robotics
- Generative AI Application
- ADAS
- Power Electrification System

Adeline PhuaThe Ascott Limited
Managing lyf Partner and Vice President, Business Development, The Ascott Limited Business Corporations

■ Career

As Managing lyf Partner, Adeline champions the development and growth of the lyf (pronounced ‘life’) brand, an experience-led social living concept designed for the next-generation traveller to ‘live your freedom’. Leading the strategic growth of the lyf brand globally, she spearheads brand development, collaborations and partnerships, and drives commercial and operational excellence of the properties. Adeline’s global experience in hospitality development, strategy, planning, investment and asset management spans close to 20 years, across China, Asia Pacific, Europe and the USA.

Ai KawaharaORYZAE inc.
Director of the R&D Division Startups

■ Career

Born in Fukuoka Prefecture in 1995, Ai Kawahara studied Nutrition at　the university and pursued Microbiology in graduate school, earning a Ph.D. in Environmental Symbiosis and a registered dietitian license. After working as a freelance marketer in the fields of nutrition, veganism, and fermentation, Ai joined Orize Co., Ltd. in 2024. Through the development of rice koji-derived fermented sweeteners as sugar alternatives, Ai aims to create a demand for rice and promote the culture of fermentation and rice koji globally.

Aimi SekiguchiMUSOU Co.,Ltd.
CEO Business Corporations

■ Career

Since 2016, he has been working as an artist who paints 3D pictures in VR space.
She has performed in various countries including Japan,USA, Germany, France, Russia, UAE, Singapore, Thai land, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia and Morocco..
Her museum in Metaverse attracts tourists from all over the world and was featured at the Venice International Film Festival.
She was selected as one of the “Forbes Japan 100” in 2021.
Dubai Golden Visa Artist.

Ajibike JimohIsopa Consulting Limited
Impact Investment Program Manager Startup Support Organizations

■ Career

Ajibike Jimoh is an Impact Investment Program Manager with a proven track record in scaling innovation through access to funding for start-ups across sectors like health, agriculture, fintech, logistics, edtech and cleantech. She has successfully led large-scale initiatives in partnership with global organizations such as JICA, develoPPP Ventures, GIZ, VC4A, UNFPA, and NITDA, helping businesses access over €1 million in funding and form strategic partnerships. She is passionate about catalyzing change and fostering growth in Africa.

Akihiro KanekoYOUTRUST, Inc.
Executive Director / Chief Strategy Officer (CSO) Startups

■ Career

After graduating from the School of Law at Waseda University, joined CyberAgent, Inc. in 2012. Began career in the creative field, then held specialist roles in data, technology, and media. Subsequently served as head of strategic planning, marketing, and new business development. Joined YOUTRUST, Inc. in October 2021, and was appointed Executive Director in October 2023.

Akihiro Nakamura M Service JSC
Senior Director of Strategy Startups

■ Career

With over two decades of experience in retail banking, both in Japan and internationally, Akihiro brings deep expertise in financial services and fintech innovation. After joining Mizuho Bank in 1996, he earned an MBA from Babson College and held leadership roles in mortgage product development, credit risk, digital channels, and workplace-based sales. From 2012 to 2017, he was seconded to Vietcombank, top commercial bank in Vietnam, contributing to the growth of Vietnam’s retail banking sector. Since 2022, he has been seconded to M-Service, where he plays a key role in driving corporate value at MoMo, one of Vietnam’s leading fintech platforms, while actively engaging in the evolving digital finance landscape.

Akiko MurakamiSompo Japan Insurance Inc.
Executive Officer, Chief Data Officer / General Manager of Data Management Department Business Corporations

■ Career

Akiko Murakami is the Executive Officer and Chief Data Officer of Sompo Japan Insurance Inc and the Executive Director of the Japan AI Safety Institute.
Akiko delivers DX of P&C insurance utilizing digital technologies and AI for the purpose of innovation challenges with digital.
Prior to joining Sompo Japan in 2021, Akiko was a researcher of Natural Language Processing, social analysis and text mining at IBM Research for 16 years. After this, Akiko represented Watson development as an architect at IBM for 5 years.

Akio Isowa Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation
Senior Managing Executive Officer Business Corporations

■ Career

Joined SMBC in 1990. After gaining experience in corporate banking, legal affairs, corporate planning, and human resources, he led the launch of the Retail Marketing Department and the IT Strategy Office (at that time) as General Manager. He was involved in initiatives such as issuing debit cards and improving the UX of internet banking applications. Later, as Head of the Transaction Business Division, he oversaw the development and business planning of online payment services such as Bank Pay and Kotora.
Since 2023, he has been serving as Senior Managing Executive Officer, Group CDIO, and Director in charge of startups, leading digital transformation and startup support initiatives across the SMBC Group.

Akio Tanaka Headline Asia
Founding Partner VCs & Investors

■ Career

Akio Tanaka is the Founding Partner at Headline Asia, with a focus on fintech, consumer internet, SaaS, and blockchain. He previously led Adobe’s venture investment program in Asia, overseeing corporate venture investments in Greater China, Japan, and India. Prior to Adobe, he served as CTO for Macromedia Japan, where he was part of the local management team and also held the role of Technology Advisor to the CEO.

Akira Sakano Zero Waste Japan
Representative Director Startups

■ Career

Contributed to the building of the 1st Zero Waste Town in Japan – Kamikatsu, and now co-building the zero waste policies in various municipalities and local communities across Japan. Co-founded Green Innovator Academy to foster more than 1,000 innovators in green transformation by 2030. Joined ECOMMIT Co.,Ltd. as Chief Sustainability Officer in 2023 to create infrastructure for the circular economy. Co-Chair of the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2019. Nikkei Women of the Year 2022.

Alexander C. Lembcke OECD
Deputy Head of Division Public Institutions

■ Career

Alexander C. Lembcke is the Deputy Head of the Economics Analysis, Data and Statistics Division of the OECD’s Centre for Entrepreneurship, SMEs, Regions and Cities where he is also responsible for the Economic Analysis Unit. His role is to provide analysis and empirical evidence that supports the development of policies for cities, regions, rural areas, SMEs and entrepreneurs. In this capacity, he works with his team to improve policies that help foster innovation, reduce inequalities and boost growth and well-being in all regions.

Arisa EmaTokyo College, The University of Tokyo
Associate Professor Educational Institutions

■ Career

Arisa Ema is an Associate Professor at the University of Tokyo and Visiting Researcher at RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project in Japan. She is a researcher in Science and Technology Studies (STS), and her primary interest is to investigate the benefits and risks of artificial intelligence by organizing an interdisciplinary research group. She is a board member of the Japan Deep Learning Association (JDLA). She is also a member of the Council for Social Principles of Human-centric AI, The Cabinet Office, which released “Social Principles of Human-Centric AI” in 2019, and also a member of the Japanese government's AI Strategy Council launched in May 2023. She is also a member of the Tokyo AI Strategy Council. Internationally, she is an expert member of the working group on the Future of Work, GPAI (Global Partnership on AI). She obtained a Ph.D. from the University of Tokyo and previously held a position as Assistant Professor at the Hakubi Center for Advanced Research, Kyoto University.

Atsuo NakayamaRe entertainment
Entertainment Sociologist/ President, Re entertaiment Co., LTD. Experts

■ Career

Entertainment Sociologist & Consultant, METI adviser, Cabinet office media strategy adviser, guest lecture at Keio univ. and Waseda/NTU univ. Based on the 15yrs career as a marketer/business development in Recruit Staffing, DeNA, Deloitte, Bandai Namco, Bushiroad, he has initiated character business creation into various field: Game, Anime, Trading Card, Musical, Music Live, Sports. Published book: “Creator　Wonderland“（2024）“Entertainment Business History” “Entertainment Guru”(2023), “Stan Economy”(2021), “Otaku Economy Genesis”(2019 Nikkei BP) “The Third Wave of Japanese Games”(2015)
www.reentertainment.online

Atsushi OkadaMori Hamada & Matsumoto
Partner Experts

■ Career

Mr. Atsushi Okada is a partner in Mori Hamada & Matsumoto’s office in Tokyo. His principal practice areas are intellectual property, information technology, data protection and cybersecurity. He is co-head of the firm’s IP, Data Security, Fintech, Healthcare and AI/IoT practice groups. He was educated at the University of Tokyo and Harvard Law School. He serves as a member of the AI Strategy Council for the Japanese government (Cabinet Office); the Committee for Intellectual Property Rights in the Age of AI (Cabinet Office); and the Working Group on AI Guidelines for Business (METI).

Atsuya MomikuraPOCKET RD Inc.
CEO Startups

■ Career

In 2024, received the Tokyo Metropolitan Venture Technology Encouragement Award as the only entertainment company in Japan. Since its establishment, it has developed alliances with many companies. He is pioneering the future of communication and entertainment around the world with his state-of-the-art AI-based avatar technology and blockchain. A serial entrepreneur, his motto is to always move forward with a smile. Recently, he has been offering “AVATARIUM Portable”. Anyone can easily become an avatar by simply standing in front of the device and enjoy a variety of worlds, such as performing with their favorite idols and celebrities, exploring unexplored regions, and dressing up as historical figures.

Ayame OsanaiFermecutes,Inc.
Co-owner Startups

■ Career

Osanai Ayame
Senior researcher at Keio University SFC Research Institute.
Works on recreating dishes especially with the theme of the Meiji era, the most singular point in the history of Japanese food culture.
Conducts sustainable food culture research activities that connect “what you should eat” and “what you want to eat” to the next generation.

Ayuko Nakamura eiicon co.,ltd
Founder・CEO

■ Career

Graduated from Tokyo Gakugei University. In 2015, he independently conceived and founded the "eiicon" business, which was released as a new business within the Persol Group. In April 2023, he completed an MBO and is currently the CEO of eiicon, where he operates "AUBA," Japan's largest company search and matching platform with over 34,000 registered companies from all over the country, and "TOMORUBA," a business revitalization media with over 20,000 members. He currently serves as a speaker and commentator at more than 60 events a year, and is also active as a mentor and judge for many accelerator programs. In December 2023, he founded XSprout Inc. as a joint venture with the Spiral Group and became a director.

Ayumi ChikamotoICHIGO Inc.
CEO Startups

■ Career

Ayumi Chikamoto joined Recruit after graduating from university where Ayumi initially worked in sales for beauty media. Following this, Ayumi participated in launching a new e-commerce business for the domestic market. Noticing the explosive increase in inbound foreign tourists and observing that they invariably purchased sweets as souvenirs, Ayumi initiated an overseas e-commerce business. In 2015, Ayumi launched 'TOKYO TREAT,' and as of 2024, the business has expanded to encompass seven brands, including subscription boxes and social commerce apps.

This year, through an M&A, they have entered the takeout-only restaurant business sector within Japan.

Bayu Seto Living Lab Ventures / Sinar Mas Land
Partner VCs & Investors

■ Career

Bayu Seto is a Partner at Living Lab Ventures (LLV), the corporate venture arm of Sinar Mas Land. He leads investments in visionary entrepreneurs, driving innovation and market impact. With over a decade of experience in business development and strategic investment, Bayu has forged key partnerships and accelerated growth of the portfolio. Since LLV’s founding in 2021, he has shaped its four pillars: Investment, Venture Building, Advisory, and Global Partnerships. LLV helps companies enter Indonesia by becoming their go-to-market partner.

Chih-Han Yu Appier Group
Chief Executive Officer & Co-founder Startups

■ Career

He has over 20 years of experience in AI, having a Ph.D. in Computer Science from Harvard University and a Master’s degree from Stanford University’s AI Lab. Dr. Yu specializes in applying AI technologies to machine learning and empowering business decision-making through data analysis. In 2012, he founded Appier to democratize AI by making software intelligent and transforming AI into measurable investment returns to drive business growth. Appier is now listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange's Prime Market. Appier was recognized as one of the Top 50 revolutionary AI companies by Fortune Magazine.

Colin Rowat Rakuten Institute of Technology
Senior Research Scientist Business Corporations

■ Career

Colin (BA Psychology, Carleton; PhD Economics, Cambridge) is an economic theorist working, most recently, in explainability and interpretability, and building economically-informed neural networks. He has written for the Economist Intelligence Unit, submitted evidence to the UK House of Lords, given a TEDx talk, founded a fintech company, and helped develop the world's cheapest brain-computer interface.

Daisuke NojimaYokogawa Innovation Switzerland
Managing Director Business Corporations

■ Career

Joined Yokogawa Electric Corporation in 2018 and engaged in the development of microbial testing systems for food and beverages. In July 2020, was appointed to Yokogawa Innovation Switzerland, whish was established to build a foundation for the bioeconomy business. Serving as Managing Director from January 2024, he will be involved in creating new bio R&D themes and promoting R&D and partnerships through global open innovation. Holds a Ph.D. in Life Sciences.

Daisuke Tokunaga SUSHITOP MARKETING Co., Ltd.
CEO

■ Career

After working in advertising sales and book editing at a publishing company, I went independent. I have developed a marketing business centered on NFT x advertising, and has supported the digital initiatives of over 150 companies. My strengths lie in NFT-utilizing initiatives using LINE and television.

Dian GuanPatsnap
Co-founder & APAC General Manager Startups

■ Career

Guan Dian is a visionary leader who transformed Patsnap into a global AI-powered innovation intelligence leader, building its SaaS business in Asia and expanding it to serve over 15,000 customers across 50 countries. Under her leadership, Patsnap revolutionised how IP and R&D teams innovate, empowering trailblazers such as NASA, Tesla, and Disney. Securing funding from investors such as SoftBank and Sequoia, she drove Patsnap’s valuation beyond US$1 billion. Guan also made the Forbes Asia 30 Under 30 list and received the NUS (National University of Singapore) Outstanding Young Alumni Award.

Dom TaylorUber
Regional General Manager, Uber, Asia Pacific Business Corporations

■ Career

Dom is the Regional General Manager of Uber's mobility business across the Asia Pacific, leading the company’s operations across nine key markets. He joined Uber in 2014, managing driver growth in Sydney before embarking on a number of broader roles across the region. Prior to Uber, Dom worked in investment banking at Morgan Stanley and Macquarie Group.

Elizabeth Myrta Attorney | Regional Business Development Manager | Executive Director I International strategic advisor Experts

■ Career

Ms. Myrta is an Attorney at Law in Italy and Albania, advising businesses on expanding into international markets. With 15 years of experience, she has worked with universities, startups, ministries, NGOs, and the private sector, focusing on empowering communities, promoting social inclusion, and advancing human rights. She played an active role in Albania’s EU transition, leading projects to empower women and youth. She is committed to fostering positive transformation and believes collaboration is key to a more inclusive, tech-driven future.

Fariza AbidovaTrusted Corporation
Co-founder & CEO Startup Support Organizations

■ Career

Fariza Abidova is a serial entrepreneur passionate about fostering global business collaboration to accelerate technological innovation.

In 2016, she founded Trusted Corporation, which helps Japanese and European enterprises innovate by exploring new business models, technology applications and market opportunities involving all key ecosystem members.

She is also a mentor for the Tokyo Metropolitan Government’s women’s acceleration program, a commentator on J-Wave Radio and Abema TV, a columnist for Nikkei Business Daily and a lecturer at Kobe University.

Fumiha BranscombeFleurinary,Inc.
CEO Startup Support Organizations

■ Career

Fumiha Branscombe joined 01Booster after launching DisneySea at Oriental Land, working as a CFO secretary at Culture Convenience Club, and serving as a Financial Advisor at Nomura Securities. Involved in managing "Yurakucho SAAI," supporting female entrepreneur development programs, and providing entrepreneurship education for high school students, she excels in creating communities that transcend gender and age. Became independent in April 2024. She is dedicated to maximizing the potential of individuals and creating environments for "moments of blooming." She is the head of the Japan branch of Prospera Women, which supports female entrepreneurs globally. She also serves as an outside director of All Bridge Inc. and holds an MBA from Globis University.

Garrett WintherNewlab
Chief Product Officer Startup Support Organizations

■ Career

Garrett Winther is Chief Product Officer of Newlab, a venture platform for critical technology startups, where he leads Newlab’s global businesses including startup membership, industry advisory and investments.

Garrett was previously a Partner at SOSV, a deep tech venture firm with $1.5B AUM and portfolio of 100+ early stage startups. Before joining SOSV, Garrett led global programs at IDEO leading to client products generating $80B annually.

Garrett is a former founder, active startup investor and holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

Grace Park Prospera Women
Cofounder Startup Support Organizations

■ Career

Grace Park is CEO of Nuleep and cofounder of Prospera Women, with 20 years of global leadership in strategic planning, innovation, and impact. She has led initiatives across 100+ countries for Fortune 500s, governments, and VCs, and managed $2.8B+ in portfolios at Disney and TPG. Her work spans AI, Biotech, Cleantech, ESG, and CPG sectors. As Co-Chair of LA Venture Association’s GREEN division and a champion for women entrepreneurs at Prospera Women, Grace advances leadership, scales global innovation, and amplifies community voices.

Gregor Gimmy27pilots
Founding CEO Startup Support Organizations

■ Career

Gregor Gimmy is a corporate venturing expert and coined the term "Venture Client" in 2014. He developed this breakthrough venturing model at BMW, which is used globally today. In 2015, he created BMW Startup Garage, the first Venture Client Unit, and lead it till 2018. In 2018, he founded 27pilots, the world's first Venture Client Solutions firm that helps corporations build and scale Venture Client Units with consulting & technology. Airbus, BMW, Bosch and Siemens are some notable clients. He has extensive experience in Silicon Valley and has lectured at top business schools and written books.

Hirokazu MashitaSGgrow
Director VCs & investors

■ Career

Hiro is one of the most active Japanese investors in the Indian startup ecosystem. He has dealt with over 170+ startups, including Razorpay, Ninjacart, Silverpush, Cashify, and so on.

Currently as a director of SGgrow Pte. Ltd; he is actively investing in India and Nigeria. He has global investment & business experiences, especially in Japan, the U.S., China, India, Nigeria, and Southeast Asia.

Hiromichi AkimotoAlbatross Technology Inc.
CEO Startups

■ Career

He completed his doctoral course at the University of Tokyo Graduate School (Naval and Ocean Engineering) and is a PhD in Engineering. He has been engaged in education and research as a university instructor in Japan and Korea. In the wake of the Great East Japan Earthquake and nuclear power plant accident in 2011, he established a limited liability company with the aim of commercializing marine renewable energy, working part-time in that position until 2019. In 2022, the company was restructured to Albatross Technology Inc., and he became its CEO. He is currently working with multiple power companies, shipping companies, and heavy machinery manufacturers to prepare for small-scale offshore experiments of floating vertical axis wind turbines. He aims to commercialize low-cost, domestically produced large-scale floating vertical axis wind turbines.

Hirotaka TanakaUnlocX & Co.
CEO / SKS JAPAN Founder Startup Support Organizations

■ Career

With experience at Panasonic and McKinsey & Company, Hiro has dedicated 8 years to growth strategy formulation and execution, M&A, business development, and venture collaboration primarily in the high-tech and telecommunications industries. In 2017, he joined SIGMAXYZ and launched the global food tech summit “SKS Japan”. Through his involvement in business development and community building in food innovation Hiro established UnlocX in October 2023 with the aspiration to create a food ecosystem. Co-authored “Food Tech Revolution” (2020/Nikkei BP). Director of the General Incorporated Association Space Foodsphere / External Board Member of Basefood Co., Ltd. / External Board Member of TechMagic, Inc./ Representative director of the General Incorporated Association Next Prime Food.

Iklima MusaNational Information Technology Development Agency
Special Assistant to the Director General Public Institutions

■ Career

Iklima Musa is a strategic leader and innovation expert specializing in policy development, digital inclusion, and tech-driven economic growth. As Special Assistant to the Director General on Strategy and Innovation at NITDA, she shapes national digital policies. With over five years at NITDA, she helped develop SRAP 1.0 & 2.0, driving Nigeria’s digital transformation. She has led initiatives in digital literacy, cybersecurity, and startup ecosystem growth, collaborating with global partners. Passionate about women’s digital inclusion, she advocates for policies that bridge the digital divide.

Isaac NgMTR Lab
Associate Head of Investments Business Corporations

■ Career

Isaac is Associate Head of Investment for MTR Lab, where he focuses on venture investments across mobility, proptech and climate. Prior to his current role, Isaac was CFO to Beyondcars, an online used car platform that was acquired by Carro. Previously, Isaac was a venture capital professional focusing on seed to Series A investments. Isaac is an avid scuba diver and is passionate about climate and social inclusion.

Issei TakinoMujin, Inc.
Co-Founder and CEO Startups

■ Career

Issei Takino is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer at Mujin Inc, and is responsible for leveraging Mujin's automation technology to fundamentally change the landscape of manufacturing and logistics. Before founding Mujin, he served as an Award-Winning Sales Manager at the Japanese branch of Iscar, one of the most profitable precision tool makers in the world.

Jean Alfonso-Decena In Silence AI
Founder & Executive Director Startups

■ Career

Jean Alfonso-Decena is the Founder of In Silence AI, a spirit-tech virtual ashram exploring the convergence of deep tech and spirituality. She has led global teams at Silicon Valley startups and media giants like Starbutter AI and Avid Technology. Certified in yoga, meditation, and Ayurveda, she’s also a community builder in Manila and Kansai. Jean speaks at global tech events including TEDx Japan, serves as AI advisor for Singularity Earth, and is on the founding team of a stealth AI/Web3 startup based in Mexico.

Jerry OCHEZowasel
CEO Startups

■ Career

Jerry OCHE is a Nigerian entrepreneur, economist, and agricultural technologist.　He is a second-time founder and CEO of Zowasel, an agricultural company leverages data science, technology, and nature-based solutions to enhance smallholder farmers' productivity, sustainability, and profitability across the value chain. Please visit https://wikitia.com/wiki/Jerry_OCHE to learn more.

Zowasel primarily works with big corporates and smallholder farmers across supply chains.

Jerry mentors across Founder Institute, AFD Social Inclusive BootCamp, and the Nigeria Climate Innovation Center.

jiwon bangMoty
CEO Startups

■ Career

Bachelor's in Automotive Engineering, Kookmin University (Minor in Electronics Engineering)
LG Scholarship Student (Industry-Academia Program)
Master's in Automotive Engineering, Motor Control Laboratory, Kookmin University
Former Engineer, Vehicle Motor Development Team, LG
Current CEO and Founder of Moty

Joanna DrakeMagnify Ventures
Founder & Managing Partner VCs & investors

■ Career

Joanna Drake has built and invested in next-generation technology companies from Silicon Valley for over 20 years. She was the Co-Founding COO of Current TV, then COO of DeNA West, before becoming a venture capitalist. As GP of Core Ventures Group, Joanna oversees global category leaders in fintech, big data and cybersecurity. As Founding Managing Partner of Magnify Ventures, she is pioneering a new category of venture startups bringing technology innovation to the $6 Trillion Care Economy, from pregnancy through to end of life.

Julien Piwowar REAL MADRID NEXT
Head of innovation Startup Support Organizations

■ Career

Dr. Julien Piwowar is the Head of innovation at REAL MADRID NEXT for 5 years. RMNext is the hub of technology of REAL MADRID CF, which is at the forefront of sports innovation. With a Ph.D. in Systems Optimization and Dependability, specializing in stadium and airport systems, Dr. Piwowar brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his role. His career includes creating several successful startups in the sports industry and pioneering advancements such as 3D ticket sales and blockchain technologies in Europe.

Junji Takaoka UTokyo Innovation Platform Co., Ltd.
Incubation Partner Educational Institutions

■ Career

In 2023, Junji Takaoka, Kevin, joined UTokyo IPC as an Incubation Partner. He established Deep Tech Founders and assumed responsibility for various key aspects, including the Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EIR) program, EIR community design, entrepreneurship development, and the commercialization of technology seeds from researchers, ultimately fostering the creation of startups from the ground up. In 2005, immediately following his university graduation, he embarked on a startup journey in Shanghai. By 2007, he had returned to Japan and commenced work at the strategic consulting firm Booz Allen Hamilton (now Strategy&). In 2009, he became a part of Alibaba Japan's President's Office, actively contributing to the development of numerous new ventures as Alibaba experienced rapid growth, transforming into a global IT giant. In 2016, he served as an Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EIR) at Draper Nexus in Silicon Valley (now DNX USA). Then, in 2017, he founded UsideU, focusing on remote customer engagement and AI as the business domain. In 2020, he achieved a successful exit through the sale of the company. Currently, he holds positions as a board member at Komehyo Co., Ltd. Kevin holds degrees from the University of Tokyo Faculty of Law, an MBA from Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management, and a Master's in Design Innovation from Northwestern University's McCormick School of Engineering and Applied Science.

Kanako TsujiCreww Inc.
Office of the President / Public Relations Startup Support Organizations

■ Career

Kanako is a public relations specialist, who provides strategic PR and communications support to various startups in Japan, including Creww. After starting her career at LVMH Group - Louis Vuitton Japan, she joined ecbo, a Tokyo-based luggage storage startup as a founding member. After establishing its PR function, following roles in brand management at another tech startup, she became an independent PR consultant.
She is a graduate of Waseda University (LL.B.).

Kay MakishiLupoff/Stevens Family Office
Vice President VCs & investors

■ Career

Kay Makishi is Vice President at Lupoff/Stevens Family Office, a NYC based single family office, advising investments as LPs into impact-oriented early-stage VC funds and founders. She is also an Ambassador for Invest Tokyo, US-Japan Council Member, Board Member of Oxford Alumni Association of New York, Advisor to Mount Sinai Innovation Partners, and Advisor to various startups/VCs mainly in the US and Japan. Kay is a former founder, operator, and VC turned LP based in NYC.

Kazuhide SugiyamaMitsubishi Electric Corporation
General Manager, Open Innovation Dep. Business Corporations

■ Career

After graduating from Kansai University in 1999, he joined Mitsubishi Electric, Defense and Space Systems Division. He experienced B2C business for 15 years. Since 2014, he engaged global business for defense and space. He gained deep understanding of global markets, extensive expertise and networking with clients and partners across various countries. In 2025, he has been assigned the head of the Open Innovation Department, with a mission to drive corporate growth and enhance competitiveness through business development and Corporate Venture Capital activities.

Kei Ikegami Planet Savers, Inc.
Founder and CEO Startups

■ Career

Kei is an serial entrepreneur with energy infrastructure background. He launched Japan's first Direct Air Capture startup ""Planet Savers"" in 2023 with Kenta Iyoki, Associate Professor at the University of Tokyo. Previously, he founded an education startup, MIRAIing; achieved 600+ paid users in 2 years (exited in 2024).
Engaged in power and energy infrastructure development/policy support at JICA, and in global business expansion at SoftBank Robotics.
Education: Cambridge University (MBA), Kyoto University (MA - Public Policy)

Kentaro Hoshiba fukubekaji
CEO

■ Career

Born in Noto Town in 1980. Studied business administration at university and joined Noto Town Hall, where he was involved in revitalizing local industries and supporting the inheritance of traditional culture. 12 years later, following the death of his mother from illness, he took over his family's blacksmithing business, which has been in business for over 100 years, as the fourth generation. He developed "Pochispa (a knife sharpening delivery service)," which allows customers to easily order professional knife sharpening craftsmanship, and repairs over 20,000 knives a year. After the earthquake, he launched "DAIJINI," a repair platform for traditional industrial products that utilizes the system, and has sold the SAAS system to overseas knife retailers, with plans to expand to America by 2025.

Kentaro Machii ERIA / JETRO
Program Manager on Startup Ecosystem, ERIA Public Institutions

■ Career

Kentaro Machii joined ERIA in February 2024 as a Program Manager in the Startup Ecosystem. Since 2013, he has worked for JETRO in various roles, including at JETRO Jakarta. During this time, he facilitated collaborations between Japanese companies and Indonesian conglomerates and invited a leading Indonesian corporate venture capital to Japan.
Additionally, he spent two years at the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, working on free trade agreements. He also developed and published a digital tool to help SMEs utilize FTAs effectively.

Kento Tokumaru Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
Associate Expert, Corporate Venturing & Investment Business Corporations

■ Career

In 2007, he joined Marubeni Corporation, a major general trading company, where he gained extensive experience in project development and management in the railway sector, primarily across Asia. He has broad practical experience in areas such as engineering, legal affairs, accounting, and taxation. Since 2017, he transferred to the government-private fund, Japan Overseas Infrastructure Investment Corporation for Transport & Urban Development (JOIN), he has been involved in large-scale infrastructure projects as well as venture-related investments and M&A. He has also engaged in developing businesses in the digital and decarbonization fields in Canada. He started a new career in Mitsubishi Electric’s Corporate Venture Capital in 2025.

Koichi Sakamoto Persefoni Japan G.K.
Japan Country Manager Business Corporations

■ Career

I joined Apple as a new graduate in 2009, a year and a half after the iPhone was released in the US. I have been involved in Sales & Partnership roles such as Market Development, Account Management & Partnership for about 14 years. I also has experienced the product launch of iPad and Apple Watch in the Japanese market. In 2019, I was appointed as Senior Manager in charge of Japan's leading mobile carrier. I felt passion about the potential and challenges in the field of decarbonization, which is attracting a great deal of attention globally, he joined Persefoni in 2022. He was appointed Account Director as Global Strategic Account Lead. He will be appointed Country Manager at the company in July 2024.

Koji Kawaguchi FUJI CORPORATION
General Manager

■ Career

I have over 20 years of experience in developing electronic component mounting robots, FUJI Corporation’s core business. I later established a new business development division centered on open innovation, leading numerous co-creation initiatives with startups and academic institutions. Currently, I focus on bridging internal and external technologies and talent to generate new value and contribute to social implementation.

Lauren Ha Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology
Associate Vice President for Technology Development and Innovation

■ Career

As Associate Vice President of the Technology Development & Innovation at OIST, Lauren Ha is responsible for the Center’s operations and strategic direction, overseeing programs to commercialize research at the university, with the goal of making an impact on society and contributing to the self-sustaining development of Okinawa. Prior to Joining OIST, Lauren was Vice President of Administration at the Molecular Sciences Institute in Berkeley, California where she played a key role in securing its designation as a Center of Excellence in Genomic Sciences by the U.S. National Institute of Health. B.S. in Biological Sciences from the University of South Carolina.

Li Li BASF Venture Capital
Senior Investment Manager VCs & Investors

■ Career

Li Li joined BASF Venture Capital in 2018, managing investments and portfolios in the Asia region from Hong Kong. She oversees portfolios in India and two agri-tech portfolios in China, with other areas under evaluation. Li began her career at PwC China, providing transaction services to top investment firms like Warburg Pincus and Sequoia. She then established the corporate strategy and M&A department for Voith Group in China, completing their first M&A transaction there. At SABIC Ventures, she helped close their first fund and first direct startup investment in China, displaying a strong venturous spirit in the corporate world. A Fudan University graduate with a major in Economics, Li is interested in deep-tech, material science, process innovation, digitalization, and sustainability investments aligning with BASF's future.

Lina SakaiFermenstation Co., Ltd.
CEO Startups

■ Career

Lina started her career in financial institutions (Fuji bank and Deutsche Bank) in Tokyo and spent more than 10 years in finance, corporate planning & M&A.
Lina's curiosity to make use of the resources that have not been effectively utilized drove her to study fermentation and biotechnology and founded Fermenstation in 2009.
Lina holds a degree from the Department of Brewing and Fermentation Science at the Tokyo University of Agriculture. She has also graduated from the International Christian University.
Lina’s achievements include VIVA Technology 2022 Japan X France Startup Pitch Winner, Japan X France Startup Pitch Winner, Morning Pitch Special Edition 2023 etc.

Makiko KawabeSOMPO Digital Lab Silicon Valley
Senior Researcher Business Corporations

■ Career

After obtaining a Master's degree in Medical Science, she joined Mitsubishi Research Institute, where she has over 15 years of experience in policy formulation support, primarily for the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare. She has extensive knowledge in the long-term care insurance system, the senior market, care management, and Age Tech. Following her tenure as a visiting researcher at Stanford University's US-ATMC, she is currently at SOMPO Digital Lab Silicon Valley, where she is responsible for linking innovations in healthcare and well-being to new businesses in Japan. Additionally, she serves as a Specially Appointed (Visiting) Professor in the Tohoku University's Advanced Graduate Program for Future Medicine and Health Care and co-leads the Japanese Women's Initiative in the Bay Area (JWIBA).

Makoto ShionoIndustrial Growth Platform, Inc. (IGPI)
Managing Director Partner (IGPI Group) Business Corporations

■ Career

Makoto Shiono

Partner, CLO at IGPI Group
Executive Director at JBIC IG Partners
Group Head, Emerging Technologies at Institute of Geoeconomics

With over 20 years of experience in investment and consulting in the technology sector both domestically and internationally, he is the founder of the Nordic VC firm NordicNinja. In recent years, he has been conducting research on emerging technologies at the Institute of Geoeconomics and has served as a member of various government committees.
He previously worked at Goldman Sachs, Bain & Company, and Livedoor before assuming his current position.

His publications include “The Dynamics of Digital Technology and International Politics”, among others.

Mari Matsuzaki BLACKBOX
Community Manager

■ Career

Core team member of Slush Tokyo, one of the world’s largest startup events, responsible for leading marketing and PR, and serving as the main stage host. Since 2019, has worked with SUNRYSE, a global startup information platform, where contributed to forming over 50 strategic partnerships. Since 2020, has been involved with Shibuya Startup Support, developing PR strategies and building partnerships to facilitate collaboration between government agencies and international startup communities.

Mari Yoshitaka Virtue Design
Representative Directer Business Corporations

■ Career

After working for an IT company and a US investment bank, she engaged in environmental finance consulting such as carbon credit business for many years. She holds a Master of Science from the University of Michigan Graduate School of Environment and Sustainability, and a PhD from the Graduate School of Media and Governance at Keio University. She currently conducts research and advice on sustainability business and ESG investment to institutional investors, government ministries, business companies, local governments, financial institutions, etc. She conducts research on visualization of regional sustainability economy. She is a Tokyo Metropolitan Councilor, a member of the Financial Services Agency Sustainable Finance Expert Council, a member of the GX Acceleration Agency Steering Committee, and a number of government committees related to sustainability. She is a visiting professor at the Faculty of Arts and Sciences of the University of Tokyo and a special visiting professor at Keio University.

Masaaki HamadaAsuene APAC Pte. Ltd.
Managing Director, Asuene APAC Startups

■ Career

15 years of experience in Asia Pacific business expansion and leadership working at renowned companies such as Google and Meta, managing mid-market teams. Masa spearheads Asuene’s operation in APAC.

Masafumi Yonazu General Incorporated Association cross U
Secretary General Startup Support Organizations

■ Career

Focusing on community building in Nihonbashi, Tokyo to expand the base of businesses that utilize space as a venue. Company owner and university professor. Formerly with the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. Skills: Cross-industry-academia-government. Worked on startup x urban development at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and disaster prevention/mitigation x information (space) at the Cabinet Office.

Masahide SakishigeJETRO London
Deputy Director General Public Institutions

■ Career

As of 2021, Masahide has led investment and innovation operations at JETRO London, his responsibilities include facilitating open innovation between Japanese corporates and European start-ups/academia. Additionally, he also focuses on promoting foreign direct investment into Japan from companies based in the UK and Nordic region, as well as supporting Japanese startups to expand their businesses in the UK. He holds a master’s degree in International Politics from the Graduate School of Political Science at Waseda University.

Masaki YoshidaGivery, Inc.
Executive Officer, CMO / COO of the Marketing DX Division Business Corporations

■ Career

Masaki Yoshida began his career at a long-established research firm before founding Arrange Base, a company specializing in OEM marketing research services. He later joined Givery, Inc. as an Executive Officer, where he led the Marketing DX division and drove revenue management initiatives. Within the company’s Salesforce environment, he spearheaded the implementation and operation of Sales Cloud, Account Engagement, and Service Cloud, while also driving AI-powered business transformation using tools such as Einstein and Agentforce. Currently, he oversees AI initiatives in the marketing domain, supporting business growth through technology-driven solutions.

Masako Eguchi-BaconOcean Bridge Management
CEO Startup Support Organizations

■ Career

A cross-border business specialist, focusing on fostering UK-Japan innovation, business partnerships, and investment deals in the energy, manufacturing, and sustainability sectors.

Masako was instrumental in establishing a regional relationship between the UK and Japan. She has actively led this relationship over the last 10 years as the Head of Japan Desk at the Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce.

With extensive experience driving government-industry-academia partnerships, serving as a Director at a Japanese company’s European subsidiary, and as an advisor to Japanese government agencies, Masako specialises in bridging the gap between the UK and Japan.

In 2023, she was honoured as a finalist in the Entrepreneur category of the Asian Women of Achievement Awards.

Masao KawanoProgram Director, Tokyo Contents Incubation Center(TCIC)/Program Manager,Into Global Startup Support Organizations

■ Career

I started my career at a global advertising agency and moved to a US creative agency in 2001.
I then learned management as the representative of a subsidiary of a listed venture company in 2004. Since 2006, I have been in charge of overseas business, video business, management strategy, planning and production, and overseas subsidiaries at KADOKAWA Corporation.Since 2020, I have been in charge of Tokyo's content industry startup support project at Tsucrea Corporation. I am currently the program director of the Tokyo Content Incubation Center and the program manager of Into Global, an overseas expansion support project.Starting in 2022, I will be in charge of the startup program at Meiji University.

Masashi ShimanukiENEOS Holdings, Inc.
General Manager, CVC Office, Corporate Planning Department Business Corporations

■ Career

Coming soon

Masayuki Kimura Deloitte Tohmatsu Venture Support
COO / Partner Deloitte Private Asia Pacific, Emerging Growth Leader Startup Support Organizations

■ Career

He co-founded Deloitte Tohmatsu Venture Support as a second venture, expanding it to a team of 200 across five global locations and successfully devising business plans for over 200 companies annually, resulting in 15 successful financings.He provides consulting services for new business development through open innovation and supports the establishment and operation of corporate venture capital (CVC).In 2015, he opened an office in Silicon Valley and has since been driving collaboration and digital strategy formulation for automotive-related companies, insurance companies, financial institutions, and major home appliance companies with Silicon Valley startups.He is a member of D-Lab, which disseminates information on Silicon Valley sponsored by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, and is invited as an expert to the Future Innovation WG established by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare and the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, among other activities.

Matthijs van LeeuwenSunway
Chief Innovation Officer VCs & investors

■ Career

Matt is the Chief Innovation Officer at Sunway Group and CEO of Sunway iLabs, an innovation ecosystem by Sunway Group and Sunway University. Since 2018, iLabs has grown its ventures portfolio to 85 startups through direct investments and a fund-of-funds approach.

Previously, Matt was a commercialisation specialist at PlaTCOM Ventures and co-founded three startups across the UK, Singapore, and Malaysia. He also worked as a consultant for the Cambridge-MIT Institute and as an analyst at Imperial Innovations, one of Europe’s top tech transfer offices (now part of IP Group).

Miki Omori Nocnum Inc.
CEO Startups

■ Career

Coming soon

Mio AsataniCurina Inc.
Founder/CEO Startups

■ Career

Mio Asatani is the CEO and founder of Curina, a fine art rental subscription company making buying art more accessible, affordable and inclusive. Launched in 2019, Curina offers art rental service to individual users as well as corporate clients that include Suntory, Prime Video, Paramount Pictures, Disney, and Cushman & Wakefield. Mio graduated from Tokyo University (Law Department) and received an MBA from Columbia Business School. She has also worked at Deloitte as a management consultant.

Mo Batran xMap K.K.
CEO

■ Career

xMap transforms fragmented geospatial data into real-time insights using Large Language Models (LLMs) and generative AI. Users can draw polygons on the map, ask questions & receive detailed answers.

Murat AktihanogluRemarkable Ventures Climate
Managing Partner VCs & investors

■ Career

Murat Aktihanoglu is the Co-Founder and Managing Partner at Remarkable Ventures, Remarkable Ventures Climate and ERA. A venture capitalist since 2011, Murat has invested in over 350 early-stage tech and climate companies with a combined market cap of $10+ billion. He previously founded Centrl and the nonprofit Entrepreneurs Roundtable, fostering New York's startup community through monthly investor meetings. Murat co-authored Location-Aware Applications in 2011 and has held engineering roles at Sony and Silicon Graphics. He holds an M.S. in Computer Science from Bilkent University.

Mutsuki KameyamaPIE with Films. LLC
Director, Producer, CEO Experts

■ Career

Born in Tokyo, she is a film director and producer. After graduating from the Department of Film at Nihon University College of Art, she directed and wrote films and dramas, and created projection mapping visuals for commercials, TV shows, music videos, and stage productions. Her sci-fi film Kai of 12 Months, produced during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, won Best Sci-Fi Feature at the Phoenix Film Festival and the International Horror & Sci-Fi Film Festival in the U.S., and received 13 awards at other international film festivals.Her major works include Kai of 12 Months, My Life, Mama Life, and Films Fighting Across the World.In July 2025, The Pregnant People, a film she produced, will be released at Shinjuku Musashino-kan and other theaters.

Nana Hori Tensor Energy Inc.
Representative Director Startups

■ Career

Graduated from International Christian University, then gained experience at Recruit and in film distribution and publicity. In 2011, transitioned into the renewable energy sector as a strategy consultant, handling battery storage, solar power, and electricity projects. Contributed to launching a renewable power generation company, led its business development team, and established a global, end-to-end framework for project origination, development, construction, operation, and management.
Founded Tensor Energy with the goal of delivering sustainable energy when and where it’s needed for the generations to come. Possesses over 13 years of experience in renewable energy finance and business development, recognized as an entrepreneurial energy professional dedicated to fostering innovation, global collaboration, and a sustainable future.

Nao FuwaJapan International Cooperation Agency
Expert on Startup Ecosystem Public Institutions

■ Career

Nao FUWA launched and leads activities related to the enhancement of African startup ecosystems at the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). As a JICA Expert for Innovation, Competition and Incubation, he supports the Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation and the National Center of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (under the Nigerian government) to enhance regional startup ecosystems in Nigeria, and also organized the JICA NINJA Business Plan Competition in response to COVID 19 across 19 countries in Africa. He began his career in the capital markets division of an investment bank, then as a managing director of a tech start-up, before moving to Uganda as a husband to join JICA in Uganda and Ethiopia. He holds a M.A. in Financial Mathematics from Boston University.

Naoko Matsuda bestat Inc
Founder/ CEO Startups

■ Career

After graduating from the Faculty of Economics at the University of Tokyo, I began my career at the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, where I was involved in innovation and trade policies. During my studies at Columbia University, I was introduced to the field of data science, which inspired me to pursue a doctoral degree as a working professional at the Laboratory of Professor Yutaka Matsuo in the Graduate School of Engineering at the University of Tokyo. Recognizing the societal value of implementing algorithms in real-world settings, I founded bestat Inc. in 2018.

Naomi Takegoshi FinCity.Tokyo
Senior Relationship Manager Public Institutions

■ Career

Naomi Takegoshi joined JIAM and FinCity.Tokyo in 2019, following 25 years of export and investment promotion activites at the UK Embassy in Tokyo, in order to support the internationalisation efforts by Tokyo and Japan. At FinCity.Tokyo she is responsible for discovering overseas asset management and fintech firms which could be expanding into Tokyo and supporting their entry.

Naoyuki Masuda Fermelanta Inc.
Head of Bussiness Development

■ Career

Naoyuki Masuda is Head of Business Development at Fermelanta, Inc. He began his career at Yamanouchi Pharmaceutical (now Astellas Pharma Inc.), where he was engaged in early-stage drug discovery research. He later served as an associate professor at the Graduate School of Science, Technology and Innovation at Kobe University, promoting the commercialization of academic technologies. He also has entrepreneurial experience and joined Fermelanta in 2023. He holds a Ph.D. in Engineering from Waseda University and an MBA from the Graduate School of Management, GLOBIS University.

Nobuaki KawaharaSalesforce Japan
Regional Sales Director, Commercial Sales (SB) Business Corporations

■ Career

Started the career at a Recruit agency, then served as a sales executive at a startup before joining Salesforce in 2010. With 16 years of experience, led inside and field sales teams across diverse markets, including regional, mid-sized, and high-growth companies. Supported hundreds of clients, collaborating with them to develop business strategies and assisting in the implementation of IT as a practical tool for execution. Now leading field sales management efforts with a mission to revitalize Japan through startups and strengthen the competitiveness of Japanese businesses.

Oliver HallNordic Asian Venture Alliance (NAVA)
Co-Founder & Investment Director Startup Support Organizations

■ Career

Co-Founder of the Nordic Asian Venture Alliance (NAVA) a comprehensive alliance of the Nordic-Baltic tech ecosystem, the capital cities, the investment & trade promotion agencies, start-ups & venture capital funds, the cluster organisations and the university incubators.
Oliver works at the award-winning inward investment agency Copenhagen Capacity, which supports many Japanese & foreign companies in Copenhagen. He is a Japanese speaker with Kobe as his 2nd home, and also hosts Europe's largest Sakura Festival.

Per Christer LundRoyal Norwegian Embassy in Tokyo
Energy and Technology Counsellor Public Institutions

■ Career

Per Christer is Counsellor for Energy and Technology at the Norwegian Embassy in Tokyo. In this role he supports Norwegian companies for growing cooperation and market opportunities in Japan and Korea. Per Christer has held similar roles at Norwegian embassy in Tokyo, Singapore and Dubai since 2006. With an PhD in chemical engineering from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, his engagement in the maritime and energy industries spans over 30 years in Norway, Canada, US, Japan, Singapore and Middle East.

His main interests now is Offshore Wind, Hydrogen and Energy Markets.

Philip Lu Accenture Managing Director
Accenture Alfa Automation CEO Startup Support Organizations

■ Career

Philip Lu is Managing Director of Industry X group at Accenture, a global leader in digital-centric enterprise transformation services. He also serves as the President of Accenture Alfa Automation, which drives physical AI initiatives. Prior to joining Accenture, he held positions such at trading company and as Executive Vice President at a global U.S. company. Since joining Accenture, he leads large-scale DX projects in the real estate, construction, and manufacturing and distribution industries primarily in Japan, focusing on the Asia-Pacific region.

Ravi NarayanStartup Genome
President Startup Support Organizations

■ Career

Building Innovation Ecosystems across the world including actors from Industry, Government, Academia, Investors, Startups and innovators.

Rebecca Takada Women In Tech Japan
Marketing Director Startup Support Organizations

■ Career

Rebecca Takada is a marketing strategist with 20+ years of experience driving growth and global expansion. As Founder of Outfoxr, she helps organizations enter North American and Japanese markets with strategic precision. She’s held leadership roles at Numentum, F-Secure, and Sprinklr, leading channel marketing and alliances with Microsoft, Twitter, SAP, and IBM. A member of Women in Tech Japan and Forbes Communications Council, she splits time between the U.S. and Japan with her husband and two cats.

Rebekah Wilson-Lye Japan Craft Sake Company Co., Ltd. Export Manager
Aramasa Shuzō International Business Development Business Corporations

■ Career

Rebekah is one of Japan’s leading sake professionals. Her diverse work portfolio includes: organising Japan’s largest sake culture event, CRAFT SAKE WEEK; sake consultancy; brand management; product development; and oversight of the world’s first -5ºC sake export system that is secured with Sake Blockchain technology. Rebekah is an IWC Sake Judge, WSET Sake Educator, JETRO Ambassador, and regularly appears in Japanese media. She is also one of the three main subjects of the movie “Kampai: Sake Sisters”. In May, 2025, Rebekah became an executive officer at Akita brewery, Aramasa Shuzo.

Rike Wootten inQs Co., Ltd
Executive Director and Chief International Officer Startups

■ Career

Rike Wootten is a seasoned expert in Japan’s financial and business sectors with nearly 40 years of experience. He is the Executive Director and Chief International Officer at inQs and President of Vantage Capital Markets Japan. He has served on the Board of Governors of the Osaka Securities Exchange and the Japan Securities Dealers Association. Beyond finance, he played a key role in establishing the Tokyo American Club’s Nihonbashi facility. Fluent in Japanese and English, he continues to drive international business success in Tokyo.

Rob Chapman BLACKBOX
Content Manager

■ Career

Originally from the UK, Rob studied at a Japanese university from 2004 to 2008. He joined Queue in 2020 as a front-end developer, while also drawing on his background in editing and writing to lead content editing for Blackbox and contribute to various startup support projects in collaboration with local governments. Currently based in Kobe.

Roma PriyaBurgeon Law
Founder Experts

■ Career

Roma Priya, the Founder of Burgeon Law, is a distinguished entrepreneurial lawyer, mentor, and start-up enthusiast. Under her visionary leadership, the firm has evolved from a boutique practice to a global law firm renowned for its expertise in corporate law, transactional practice, fundraising, and dispute resolution. Passionate about innovation and entrepreneurship, she fosters long-term client relationships with her collaborative, solution-oriented approach. Roma’s commitment to mentoring entrepreneurs and contributing to social initiatives reflects her dedication to shaping India's future.

Rui Nagamori Leaflow Inc. / EmpowerHER Initiative
Founder and CEO Startup Support Organizations

■ Career

Rui is the CEO of Leaflow Inc. After graduating from Keio University, she began her career in international logistics at Maersk Line before launching her first startup. Following a successful M&A exit from a children’s clothing resale platform, she founded Leaflow, a CBD beverage brand. With expertise in e-commerce, PR, and sustainability, she is also dedicated to mentoring the next generation of entrepreneurs. Rui is an active contributor to Venture Café Tokyo and serves as a community manager at Tokyo Innovation Base (TIB), where she supports global entrepreneurial network building.

Ryo IwamotoTeaRoom Inc.
Founder&CEO Startups

■ Career

Iwamoto graduated from Waseda University majoring in Political Science and Economics. Having cultivated his expertise in the art of Japanese tea ceremony in the Urasenke Tea Association since childhood, he now carries the honorific tea name “Souryo Iwamoto” and is active as a professor. At the age of 21, he founded the company TeaRoom. In an effort to address the structural challenges within the tea industry, he acquired multiple factories and tea gardens across Japan to have a vertically integrated model spanning from tea cultivation to distribution. This led him to establish a corporation known as THE CRAFT FARM, recognized as an agricultural land-owning entity. Awarded as Forbes JAPAN 30 UNDER 30 2022, Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia 2023, Global Shapers at the World Economic Forum. Holding the role of executive director at Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten Co., Ltd. and representative chairperson at Cultural Capital Lab, further attesting to his multifaceted achievements on a global scale.

Ryusei Kurata PoliPoli Inc.
Director Startups

■ Career

Ryusei Kurata (Director and Executive Officer, PoliPoli, Inc.) Born in 1998 in Nara Prefecture and raised in Kanagawa Prefecture. Graduated from Keio University. In 2018, he co-founded PoliPoli, Inc., and until January 2025, he served as the Chief Technology Officer (CTO), leading the development of "PoliPoli" and "PoliPoli Gov." He organized the Japan-ASEAN Generation Z/Future Generation Business Leaders Summit (2023, 2024), dedicating himself to promoting discussions and policy recommendations between Japan and ASEAN nations. He also has experience speaking at events related to blockchain and open governance. Currently, he is engaged in ASEAN business development and corporate affairs.

Sachie AbeBosch Corporation
Manager, Business Development Dept. Business Corporations

■ Career

Sachie Abe is a business development manager in Bosch Japan. She commits to building new businesses by fostering open innovation with external enterprises including startups. In addition to the above, her new role is building new startups by matching and leveraging assets externally and internally. Before this, she began her career as an overseas sales in Bosch Japan and was responsible for automotive marketing areas there.

Sandeep AggarwalDroom
Founder & CEO Startups

■ Career

Droom was founded by Sandeep Aggarwal,the only tech entrepreneur in India who founded 2 Unicorns back-to-back: ShopClues & Droom. He has spent 23 yrs in the Internet sector,including 5 yrs with Schwab.com & Microsoft in their HQs,7 yrs on Wall Street with 3 marquee investment firms Citi, Oppenheimer & Collins Stewart covering global Internet sector as equity research analyst out of Silicon Valley & last 11 years in India as a founder of ShopClues & Droom. Sandeep has an MBA from Washington University in St. Louis & holds a US patent.He authored the best-selling book titled'Fall Again Rise Again'

Sandeep CasiAntler
Partner VCs & Investors

■ Career

Sandeep Casi is a Partner at Antler in Japan, where he works to build transformative startups. His commitment extends beyond individual founders to Japan’s broader startup ecosystem, and he is also part of Antler’s Ibex team. He serves as a bridge between global corporations and startups, driving collaborations that foster innovation and address key industry challenges. As a VC, he raised millions from Japanese investors to help Silicon Valley startups enter Japan. As a founder, he spun off 30 patents from Fujifilm, raised $7M for a video AI platform, and successfully exited via M&A in 2021.

Sarah Fleischertozero
CEO & Co-Founder Startups

■ Career

Sarah Fleischer is the co-founder and CEO of tozero, Europe’s first lithium-ion battery recycling startup. tozero is building the ultimate lithium-ion battery recycling machine, recovering essential materials like lithium and graphite.

Sarah LiuTDC Global
Founder & Managing Director Experts

■ Career

Sarah Liu, named one of Australia's 100 most influential women, is the founder of TDC Global, APAC's Top 10 DEI consultancy with a strong presence in Japan. She advises major Japanese international companies on DEI strategies and program development, and has published 3 DEI books in Japan. A recognized global leader, Sarah has presented at UN Women, Women in Tech Global Summit, and Global Australia, and advised the Japanese Prime Minister's Cabinet. She also sits on the udging panel for the Forbes Women's Awards and UTS Vice-Chancellor's Advisory Board.

Saseko　Seno Shibuya City
Chief of Global City Promotion Section

■ Career

At the Shibuya City Office, I have gained experience in public relations, foreign resident registration (at that time), elderly welfare, human resources, and the systems department. Since April 2021, I have been assigned to the Global Hub City Promotion Office. Since joining this office, I have been involved in supporting startups, including conducting proof-of-concept experiments with startup companies, supporting female entrepreneurs, and creating a startup-friendly environment. Leveraging my extensive network within the Shibuya City Office, I aim to bridge the gap between startup companies and various departments within the city office.

Sébastien RichardVillage by Crédit Agricole
CEO Village by Crédit Agricole 31 Startup Support Organizations

■ Career

Sébastien Richard is the CEO of Village by CA 31, part of the largest startup acceleration structure in Europe founded by Crédit Agricole Bank. Holder of a PhD in sociology of innovation, he studied strategies for the adoption of new technologies in Canada before joining the Desjardins group and the team of their Innovation Lab in 2015. After developing the Cooperathon, the largest open innovation competition in Canada, he joined the Village by CA in Toulouse in 2020, to support startups in their national and international growth and advise companies on strategic innovation schemes.

Shiho Fueki Bureau of Waterworks, Tokyo Metropolitan Government
Director

■ Career

Director for Technology Section, Water Resources Administration Office, Bureau of Waterworks, Tokyo Metropolitan Government. Born in Tokyo, she joined TMG in 2005. In the Waterworks Bureau, Sewerage Bureau, and Construction Bureau, she has been in charge of infrastructure projects for Tokyo, such as the maintenance and management of facilities and earthquake resistance and renewal. She has been in her current position since April 2024. She is currently involved in managing the water resource forest that spreads upstream of the Tama River, which is one of the water resources for over 14 million Tokyo residents, and the Ogouchi Reservoir, which is exclusively for water supply. With a new perspective based on safety and efficiency, she will continue to protect water sources, including the water source forest that has existed for over 120 years, and secure the water source for Tokyo residents.

Shiho Watabe Shibuya Startups KK
CEO Startup Support Organizations

■ Career

Shiho has worked at Morgan Stanley (IBD), Google, Mercari US, ELSA Speak, and various startups. With experience working in Japan, South East Asia, Europe, Africa, Silicon Valley, and DC, she brings a unique perspective. Shiho holds degrees from ICU and Stanford University. She has been advising Shibuya City since 2021 and has been in her current role since February 2023.

Shinichiro YanagawaENEOS Holdings, Inc.、ENEOS Corporation
Deputy General Manager, Carbon Neutral Strategy Department Business Corporations

■ Career

Coming soon

Shinpei KatoTIER IV, Inc.
CEO Startups

■ Career

Shinpei is the founder and CEO of TIER IV and co-founder and chairman of the Autoware Foundation. He is also a project associate professor the University of Tokyo. A pioneer in open-source software for autonomous driving, Shinpei served as an associate professor at Nagoya University from 2012 to 2016, where his team created Autoware, the world’s first open-source software for autonomous driving. He was also a postdoctoral scholar at Keio University, the University of Tokyo, Carnegie Mellon University, and the University of California.

Shizuka Umehara Square Up New York
CEO Startup Support Organizations

■ Career

Shizuka is the founder of Square Up New York, established in New York City in 2022, where she supports the U.S. market entry of overseas companies. Prior to founding the consulting firm, she worked at Deloitte Tohmatsu Venture Support Co., Ltd. in Tokyo, leading initiatives for the global expansion of Japanese startups and empowering women entrepreneurs. Earlier in her career, she provided tax compliance and advisory services to large Japanese corporations with U.S. subsidiaries at Ernst & Young in New York and PricewaterhouseCoopers in Los Angeles. She holds a Master’s degree in Financial Accounting from California State University Los Angeles.

Shohei HayashiGlobal Brain Corporation
Partner, Investment Group VCs & investors

■ Career

Shohei joined GB in 2018, focusing on investment activities in various fields. He is also a Value Up Team member, supporting many portfolio startups. Before joining GB, Shohei worked for JPMorgan Securities Japan, JICA and Deloitte Tohmatsu Consulting. He was engaged in rates trading at JPMorgan, investment/lending to emerging countries' private sector and infrastructure projects at JICA, and was responsible for cross-border M&A strategy and PMI consulting at Deloitte Tohmatsu Consulting.

Shuichiro SuzukiWasteBox, Inc.
President Experts

■ Career

Coming soon

Shuma Goko WithblueDMC.inc
CEO

■ Career

Shuma has been involved in cross-border marketing support and working on various cross-industry projects across more than 30 cities over 16 years. Since 2018, he started engaging in supporting startups, and has been responsible for attracting and expanding startups as part of the Okinawa Startup Ecosystem Project for the past 3 years. In 2023, he established Withblue DMC Inc. in Okinawa, focusing on inbound tourism projects for the region. Additionally, he organizes annual global conference "Asia New Travel Bootcamp," aiming to build an innovator community across Asia.

Sille PettaiSmartCap
CEO VCs & investors

■ Career

Sille is the CEO of SmartCap, Estonian state investment company focused on venture capital and growth investments with total assets exceeding EUR 400 million.
She is leading the investments of three funds - SmartCap Venture Capital Fund to contribute to capital market development and diversify capital supply, SmartCap Green Fund dedicated to green transition and SmartCap Defence Fund to strenghten Estonian defence industry.
She has been an investment executive for 18 years while managing alternative investment portflios and serves as a board member of the Estonian Venture Capital Association.

Siu Rui QuekCarousell Group
Co-founder and CEO Startups

■ Career

Siu Rui is responsible for setting the overall strategy and direction for Carousell Group. Since the launch of Carousell in August 2012 together with co-founders Marcus Tan and Lucas Ngoo, Siu Rui has been deeply involved in product strategy, international expansion and growth. He is passionate about technology and its ability to make a meaningful impact at scale globally. This has been a driving force behind Siu Rui’s commitment to building a product-focused company, focused on Carousell’s mission to make secondhand the first choice for everyone.

Sonoko Yasuhira The Japan Research Institute, Limited
New business development manager

■ Career

I graduated from the Faculty of Design, Kyushu University, and completed a Full-time MBA Program (masters program) at the Graduate School of Business Administration, Keio University. After engaging in new business development and marketing at a private company, I joined the Japan Research Institute, Limited, where I belong to the Center for the Strategy of Emergence, responsible for market creation and new businesses, and I work as a project manager. My expertise lies in regional transportation and logistics, advanced mobility (such as MaaS, autonomous driving, and drones), and the Asian business environment (urban development, transportation, logistics). I contribute to solving social issues using cutting-edge technology through Social DX and conduct social impact assessments of business activities. In recent years, I have focused on projects that involve industry-academia-government collaboration.

Sorato IjichiCreww Inc.
CEO Startup Support Organizations

■ Career

Born in 1983. Moved to the United States alone at the age of 15. In 2005, at the age of 21, founded a business while studying at California State University. The company launched in the U.S. was sold to a major American corporation in 2010. Another company founded in the Philippines in 2009 was sold within three years.
Following the Great East Japan Earthquake, returned to Japan and founded Creww in 2012, operating an open innovation platform.
Currently involved in various organizations and projects related to the startup ecosystem and open innovation.

Stephy DengAdofaer
CEO Startups

■ Career

Stephy Deng is the founder and CEO of Adofaer, a next-gen toy platform that helps companies transform concepts into collectibles through AI innovation.

Sudesh Thevasenabathy Manulife Hong Kong
Head of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Asia Business Corporations

■ Career

Sudesh is currently Head of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Asia at Manulife based in Hong Kong responsible for driving the DEI agenda across the region for employees and customers. At Manulife, he focusses his efforts on the workforce, workplace, community and the business to ensure inclusion is embedded across the organisation and beyond. He has been recognized as one of the top 20 Ethnic Minorities in Hong Kong through the 2024 Diversity List by the Zubin Foundation. He is a true believer and advocate of diversity and inclusion and actively supports inclusion of all forms be it disability, race, gender, sexuality and multi-generational employees. Sudesh is an Electronics and Computing engineering graduate and is Six Sigma, Lean and Human Centered Design trained.

Swati BhargavaCashKaro & EarnKaro
Co-Founder Startups

■ Career

Swati Bhargava, Co-founder of CashKaro & EarnKaro, is a trailblazer in India’s e-commerce space & one of the top women entrepreneurs in the country. She graduated from the LSE & started her career at Goldman Sachs, London. She launched CashKaro, India’s largest cashback platform in 2013, followed by EarnKaro, India’s largest affiliate marketing app. The Company generates $500m in sales every year, and has raised over $30 million in funding. Swati is a TEDx speaker, social media influencer & has been featured in Fortune 40 Under 40, LinkedIn’s Top 10 Voices & various distinguished media.

Takashi SugiyamaGigi Inc.
Board Member / CBDO Startups

■ Career

With 15 years of experience at Andersen Consulting and Deloitte Tohmatsu Consulting, he was involved in managing large-scale development projects and formulating IT strategies for local governments at global consulting firms. Later, inspired by his pro bono work, he shifted his focus to grassroots IT community activities in Fukuoka. He spearheaded initiatives such as Daimyo Now—an early example of community revitalization through Twitter—AIP Café, the cradle of Fukuoka’s tech community, and the social media strategy for Takeo City. Currently, he continues to lead multiple projects under the motto “Transforming Japan from the Regions, ” while living and working between Fukuoka and Tokyo.

Takeru Kawashima 01Booster Inc.
Executive Director

■ Career

After graduating from Waseda University, Kawashima worked in business development for a Japanese Medical Device company in the EMEA region, then transitioned to Product Marketing at a Global Medical Device company. Joining 01Booster, Inc., a Japanese Accelerator, in 2017, he managed several accelerator programs and developed international partnerships with accelerators outside Japan. He also founded "InnoScouter, Inc.," focusing on enterprise SaaS startups, and later successfully exited to 01Booster. Now he is in charge of new business developments and global projects as the executive director of 01Booster.

Takeshi ChinoBinance Japan Inc.
General Manager for Japan Startups

■ Career

Takeshi Chino joined Binance as General Manager for Japan in July 2022, and he has been working collaboratively with regulators, policymakers, and industry leaders since then. His focus will be to develop business opportunities for Binance and grow the firm’s operations in Japan in a responsible and compliant manner to build a sustainable web3 ecosystem in Japan. In 2021, he served as the Vice Chairman of the Japan Virtual Currency Exchange Association (JVCEA) and in 2023 he was a board member of the Japan Cryptocurrency Business Association (JCBA). Prior to joining Binance, Takeshi held senior roles as Managing Director and Head of Japan at Kraken Japan where he played an instrumental role in successfully obtaining Kraken’s JFSA registration. Prior to that, he held roles at PwC Japan, Tokyo Stock Exchange, and Japan Securities Clearing Corporation. He is a graduate of Keio University and the Said Business School, University of Oxford.

Teng Lip KHOOST Engineering Ventures
Head VCs & investors

■ Career

Teng Lip is Head of ST Engineering Ventures (“STEV”) – the corporate venture capital and venture building unit of Singapore Technologies Engineering Ltd (SGX: S63) - a global technology, defence and engineering group with businesses across the aerospace, smart city, defence and public security segments. Headquartered in Singapore, ST Engineering reported revenue of US$8.5B in FY2024 and it ranks among the largest companies listed on the Singapore Exchange.

Tommy TjiptadjajaGreenhope
Co-Founder & CEO Startups

■ Career

A social entrepreneur dedicated to creating a net-positive social and environmental impact through viable business. Selected by the Schwab Foundation and a Harvard scholarship recipient, he was named in Asia Tatler’s Impact List 2020. He also serves as part of Indonesia’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry for Circular Economy, as well as regular attendees at WEF and COP. As Greenhope Co-Founder & CEO he drives innovation in patented bio-based and biodegradable techs like Oxium (natural minerals) and Ecoplas & Naturloop (Fair For Life-certified cassava/tapioca-based solutions).

Tomohiko MorikawaShochiku Ventures, Inc.
Director and Management Executive Officer, Shochiku Ventures, inc. Startup Support Organizations

■ Career

He joined Shochiku Co., Ltd. as a new graduate in 2010. After working in the theater business and serving as the president’s secretary, he moved to the Corporate Planning Department, where he was seconded to Drone Fund, a VC fund specializing in the drone and air mobility sectors, engaging in startup support activities.In 2022, he launched Shochiku Ventures, the corporate venture capital (CVC) arm of Shochiku, where he now manages an accelerator program and supports and invests in co-creation projects with startup companies.

Tomosaku SoharaNordicNinja VC
Managing Partner VCs & investors

■ Career

Managing Partner at NordicNinja VC. Over 10 years experience of international finance and investment especially mobility and energy related projects in Europe and Latin America region. In 2019 founded NordicNinja VC and has been leading several investments into early stage companies. Focus areas are ClimateTech, Deep Tech and so on. Superadvisory member of Nordic Asian Venture Alliance.

Toshiya WatanabeInstitute of Science Tokyo/Tokyo University
Vice President, Guest Professor Educational Institutions

■ Career

Toshiya Watanabe, born in Tokyo in 1959, is a distinguished professor and executive vice president at the University of Tokyo, specializing in intellectual property policy, innovation policy, and technology management. He completed his master's degree in inorganic materials engineering at Tokyo Institute of Technology in 1984 and earned his doctorate in engineering from the same institution in 1994.

After working in the private sector, Watanabe joined the University of Tokyo in 1998 as a visiting professor at the Research Center for Advanced Science and Technology (RCAST). By 2001, he became a full professor at RCAST. Currently, he serves as the executive vice president of the University of Tokyo, deputy director of the Institute for Future Initiatives (IFI), and head of the Division of University Corporate Relations. He also holds a concurrent professorship in the Department of Technology Management for Innovation at the Graduate School of Engineering.

Watanabe has held several notable positions, including chair of the Intellectual Property Strategy Headquarters' Vision Committee and chair of the Expert Panel on Security Clearance Systems in Economic Security. He is also the president and director of the Intellectual Property Association of Japan.

Una Softic Intertangible
Managing Director Startup Support Organizations

■ Career

Una Softic is the Managing Director at Intertangible, a professional services firm specializing in AI and fintech, and Strategic Advisor to Coinpost, Japanese Web3 media. Previously, she led global innovation programs at Nikkei, specializing in AI applications in fintech. She serves on boards and advises emerging tech ventures, drawing on 15+ years of experience in international business development and product strategy, which began at Intel and General Motors across Europe and the U.S.

Vaibhav VardhanInc42 Media
Cofounder & CEO Media

■ Career

Vaibhav Vardhan saw India’s startup landscape grow from a scattered hustle to a $100B+ force—and built Inc42 to drive that momentum. As Co-founder & CEO of Inc42, he has shaped how India engages with startups, venture capital, and emerging tech.

With Vaibhav at the helm, Inc42 is reaching 50M+ users monthly, publishing 50K+ stories, tracking 30K+ startups, and running 8 parallel courses that are shaping the next generation of founders. From breaking stories that move markets to hosting conversations that set industry agendas, Inc42 has become the nerve center of India’s digital economy.

Vik Kashyap Toi Labs
CEO Startups

■ Career

Vik Kashyap is the Founder & CEO of Toi Labs, whose AI-powered toilet seat, TrueLoo, transforms ordinary toilets into a source of valuable data. Funded by top global bathroom brands, Toi Labs is pushing the boundaries of science to deliver healthcare at home. Vik developed a new treatment for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), co-authored a paper in Science, and his journey has been written about in two books. He holds multiple issued patents and is a graduate of Harvard University.

Vy Le Hoang Uyen Do Ventures
General Partner VCs & investors

■ Career

Vy is the Co-founder and General Partner of Do Ventures, an early-stage venture capital firm that focuses on making investments in technology companies in Vietnam and Southeast Asia. Vy has invested in 40 companies across diverse sectors.
Vy serves as Chair of the Vietnam Private Capital Agency, where she drives initiatives to strengthen the private capital ecosystem in Vietnam, and as Vice President of the Vietnam E-commerce Association, where she plays a key role in advancing the local e-comme.

Wataru "Watts" Mizote for Startups, Inc.
Executive Officer Startup Support Organizations

■ Career

After beginning my career at Recruit Co., Ltd., I joined GREE, Inc., where I contributed to launching the company's smartphone business and establishing its European office. I subsequently led global business expansion at AOI Pro. Inc. and Metaps Inc., focusing on developing new global markets and partnerships. At 17LIVE, I was responsible for launching the Japan operation and played a key role in growing the global live streaming market. In 2022, I joined "for Startups, Inc.", where I initially focused on talent development and organizational design within the Talent Agency Division. I now lead the strategic planning division, leveraging my experience to drive core business growth, empower emerging leaders, and support the evolution of Japan's startup ecosystem.

Wayne Shen Agora.io
Conversational AI Product Lead，Agora Lab. Startups

■ Career

Wayne Shen holds a Master of Science from the University of Illinois. As the product owner of Agora’s conversational AI engine, he drives long-term growth and platform excellence to support client success. With deep expertise in industry-specific AI solutions, he has delivered measurable impact in education, customer service and entertainment. Passionate about leveraging conversational AI to accelerate business growth, he believes in building the future through collaboration.

William D. Chilton FAIA, RIBAPickard Chilton
Co-Founding Principal Experts

■ Career

Based in Connecticut, USA, Pickard Chilton is a globally recognized architecture studio renowned for designing innovative buildings and transformative environments that foster community and create value. William Chilton has led landmark projects worldwide, including The Linkpillar I, the newly completed 460,000 m² centerpiece of East Japan Railway Company’s Takanawa Gateway City—a visionary 13-ha. transit-oriented development adjacent to Tokyo’s Shinagawa Station and, Tokyo Midtown Yaesu, a 240-m., 290,000 m² mixed-use high-rise for Mitsui Fudosan, redefining Tokyo Station’s urban landscape.

Yap Eai-Sy JTC
Director of New Estates Business Development & Marketing Division and Info-comms, Media & Startup Cluster Public Institutions

■ Career

As the Director for New Estates Business Development and Marketing, Ms Yap Eai-Sy leads the development of JTC's new estates in Singapore such as one-north and Punggol Digital District, JTC’s first smart and sustainable district. She is concurrently the Director of InfoComm, Media & and Start-up Custer, where she spearheads the planning, development and marketing of JTC’s industrial facilities to advance these sectors in Singapore.

Yohei Nishiyama TENCHIJIN, INC.
Executive Officer, VP of BD with expertise in New Business and GTM Strategy Startups

■ Career

Mr. Nishiyama is leading the global expansion of "KnoWaterleak" (the Space Water Bureau) and the rollout of renewable energy solutions. He has driven the growth of Techstars, Y Combinator, and Vision Fund-backed startups, with successful market entries across Japan, the U.S., and Southeast Asia. He now promotes infrastructure optimization and innovation in the renewable energy sector through satellite data and AI-powered solutions.

Yoko Fukata Sony Ventures
Investment Director VCs & Investors

■ Career

Started a career at Sony Corporation (now Sony Group Corporation) as a software engineer, contributing to the development of B2C products and leading the launch of new B2B businesses. In 2020, transitioned to Sony Innovation Fund, the corporate venture capital (CVC) arm of Sony, focusing on global investments in deeptech and climatetech startups. Recognized as one of the "Top 30 Women in Asia’s CVC" by GCV and one of the "Top 15 Women in Japan’s VC Industry" by Forbes Japan.

Yoshiya AmanaiEAST JAPAN RAILWAY COMPANY
Manager Business Corporations

■ Career

In 2001, Mr. Amanai joined EAST JAPAN RAILWAY COMPANY. He accumulated his professional career in shopping complex development and operation about for 5 years. After earning his MBA at Washington University in St. Louis in 2010, he has been engaged in several real estate development projects in Tokyo metropolitan area. Since then, he has led TAKANAWA GATEWAY CITY project over 15 years and covered a wide range of tasks such as concept, master plan, date infrastructure, key tenants leasing, start-up investment, and community development. TAKANAWA GATE WAY CITY just opened March 27th in 2025.

Yosuke Maeda WOTA Corp.
Representative Director & CEO Startups

■ Career

Born in Tokushima, Japan. Yosuke graduated from the University of Tokyo, Department of Architecture, Faculty of Engineering. He also complated the Master's Program in Architecture, Graduate School of Engineering, at the University of Tokyo. He began researching biology and chemistry in elementary school, and his interest in water issues in junior high school led him to conduct research on water treatment in high school. He studied urban infrastructure and the living environment of slums in developing countries at university, and housing facilities (water supply, drainage, and sanitation) at graduate school. While in school, he worked on sensor and control development at the world-renowned digital art collective teamLab, among others. He later started his own business and sold the business. He received The University of Tokyo President's Award for Students, the GOOD DESIGN GRAND AWARD from Japan Institute of Design Promotion, and others. As CEO of WOTA, he aims to provide structural solutions to water problems.

Yota Takakura Innoqua inc.
CEO Startups

■ Career

Coming soon

Yuichiro MuraiBio’c Co., Ltd./Kojiyasanzaemon
President/29th head of the family Business Corporations

■ Career

After graduating from Keio University Yuichiro Murai joined Kojiya Sanzaemon, a 600-year-old family business producing koji starter, and its research company Biok. As the largest koji starter manufacturer in Japan, he involved in technology, sales, and management equally. In 2016, he became the 29th CEO of the company. Since then, he has worked on creating new value with koji starter technologically and culturally. He serves as a Director of Brewing Society of Japan since 2020. He earned MBA from Thunderbird School of Global Management and MA (MFA) from Kyoto University of the Arts. He recently wrote a book titled "Fermentation as Liberal Arts."

Yuka Tanimoto Forbes JAPAN
Executive Director and Managing Editor, Forbes JAPAN Web Editorial Team Media

■ Career

After working as a financial and economic anchor at a securities company and Bloomberg TV, obtained an MBA in the U.S. Served as a newscaster at Nikkei CNBC and became the company's first female commentator. Has interviewed over 4,000 VIPs, including Taiwan’s Digital Minister Audrey Tang, former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair, and Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak.
Currently serves as a regular economic commentator on ABEMA TV’s” FOR JAPAN” and TOKYO MX’s “Oharina”, among other programs, while also holding executive positions in companies. Additionally, serves as a researcher, lecturer, and advisory board member at Rikkyo University’s Graduate School of Social Design Studies. Joined Forbes JAPAN in February 2016 and assumed the current position on January 1, 2022.

Yuki Nakagawa RT Corporation
President/CEO Startups

■ Career

In 2005, she founded RT Corporation, which is involved in the development, sales and training of service robots, and became its representative director. With the mission of “Life with Robot” and “Work with Robot”, RT is developing an educational business that trains highly skilled personnel in AI and robotics, as well as a business that promotes the automation of light work using AI and robots. She is also the executive director of the New Technology Foundation, which hosts the maze analysis robot contest “Micromouse”, and is also a director of the general incorporated association ROSConJP (Japan) and Open Robotics (USA), both of which are related to ROS (Robot Operating System).

Yukihiro Maru Leave a Nest Co., Ltd.
Group CEO Startups

■ Career

Earned Ph.D. (Agriculture) from University of Tokyo Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences. In 2002, while attending graduate school, Leave a Nest was established with his fellow science and engineering undergraduate and graduate students. He is pioneering and commercializing the “Cutting-Edge Science Workshop” to be delivered to schools in Japan. Classes”“Cutting-Edge-Science Delivery Lab Classes”. With his leadership, Leave a Nest currently runs “Knowledge Manufacturing” to create new business by combining technologies and knowledge in different fields. Also, he is the instigator of Tech Planter, one of Asia's largest deep tech ecosystems. He is trying to solve various Deep Issues around the world for “Global Happiness”. His major publications include “Deep Tech: Sleeping Technology' that opens up the future of our world (Nikkei BP) and “A New Era of Knowledge Manufacturing” (Leave a Nest Publishing).

Yusuke Takezawa Progmat, Inc.
Chief Strategy Officer Startups

■ Career

After 6 years experience in SMBC (Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation), joined Boston Consulting Group in 2018. As a project leader, worked primarily in the financial and public sectors, and was involved in tasks such as developing mid-term business plans, enhancing and advancing operations through DX, and contributing to policy formulation and government project management. In 2023, became a founding member of Progmat Co.,Ltd. As a Chief Strategy Officer, engaged every aspects of buiness development such as corporate strategy development, new business development corporate system building etc. In 2024, launched new global stablecoin settlement infrastructure project "Project Pax" with SWIFT, and leading the project with regulators and governments in many countries. In 2025, launched a few global projects aims harmonize different stablecoin systems in global with leading stablecoin issuers in global.

Yutaka MatsuoDepartment of Technology Management and Strategy, Graduate School of Engineering / Artificial Engineering Research Center, The University of Tokyo
Professor Educational Institutions

■ Career

Graduated from the University of Tokyo in 1997 and earned Ph.D. in Engineering in 2002. He has held research positions at AIST and served as visiting researcher at Stanford University. Since 2007, he has been an associate professor, and since 2019, a professor at the University of Tokyo’s Graduate School of Engineering. His research specializes in AI, deep learning, and web mining. He has been the chair of JDLA since 2017, an outside director for SoftBank Group since 2019. Since 2021, an expert member of Council for achieving new capitalism and since 2023, the chair of AI strategy conference.

Yuzuru Fukuda Fujitsu Limited
Corporate Executive Officer, Senior EVP Business Corporations

■ Career

Born in 1975, in Aichi Prefecture, and raised in Kashiwa City, Chiba Prefecture. After graduating from university in 1997, joined SAP Japan. After working as a corporate sales representative for major chemical and petroleum manufacturers, became Head of Sales, and was appointed President in 2014. Joined Fujitsu in April 2020 as EVP, CIO (Chief Information Officer), and Deputy CDXO (Chief Digital Transformation Officer). From April 2023, served as CIO and CDXO. From April 2025, serving as SEVP and Enterprise Business CEO (current position).