Tokyo, Japan—The SusHi Tech Tokyo 2024 Global Startup Program commenced today.
Over 150 leaders and experts will convene in 47 sessions to debate the future of cities, technology, and startups.
The event at Tokyo Big Sight featured a bustling exhibition hall with over 430 startups worldwide, each exhibiting innovative solutions.
The program included a series of key sessions that addressed a range of critical topics, including the development of sustainable and engaging urban environments, the role of corporate philosophy in open innovation, the current state of femtech globally, and Japan's potential as a leading hub for Web3 in Asia.
During the keynote address, the Governor of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government stated that 550 million US dollars had been allocated to develop the startup ecosystem.
The government has allocated one billion US dollars over five years, commencing in 2022, to establish an ecosystem.
Notable speakers included Taizo Son, Marc Penzel, and Ronald Cohen.
Furthermore, the event hosted the SusHi Tech Challenge 2024 pitch contest, with 20 semi-finalists from 43 countries competing for the top prize of JPY 10 million.
Startups focusing on infrastructure, the environment, and impact notably contributed to the event.
In addition to the scheduled sessions and pitch contest, the exhibition hall was abuzz with activity as startups, countries, cities, and universities showcased their ecosystems and solutions.
A dedicated VC/Investor Pavilion facilitated connections between startups and over 30 Japanese and international investors.
Furthermore, SusHi Tech Tokyo 2024 exhibited a notable student presence. The "ITAMAE" student project hosted workshops, a pitch contest, and discussions on entrepreneurship and the future of life from a youth perspective.
The event's objective is to cultivate a robust startup ecosystem in Tokyo and position the city as a global hub for innovation.
