The Tokyo Metropolitan Government (TMG) has unveiled its plans for the "SusHi Tech Tokyo 2024 Global Startup Programme," which is expected to be Asia's most significant global innovation conference, scheduled on May 15–16, 2024. The event expects over 40,000 visitors across two days and more than 400 local and international exhibitors from 40 cities, and it aims to foster sustainable new values through idea exchanges and discussions on urban challenges faced globally.
The program, under the theme of "Creating a Sustainable Future Urban City," will have top themes addressing issues such as resilient infrastructure, environmental concerns, convenient living, and the preservation of traditional culture using cutting-edge technologies and digital know-how. Start-ups, investors, major corporations, and delegates from various markets will engage in speaking sessions, a pitch contest, and exhibits.
A panel session titled "Imagining the City of the Future and Innovation" will feature notable figures such as Yuriko Koike, the Governor of Tokyo, and Adi Ignatius, the Editor in Chief at Harvard Business Review. Other esteemed panelists include Jen Carter, Global Head of Technology at Google.org, and John Roos, Founding Partner at Geodesic Capital and former U.S. Ambassador to Japan.
The SusHi Tech Tokyo initiative, standing for Sustainable High City Tokyo, aims to position Tokyo as a global technology hub and a platform for disruptive innovations solving urban challenges worldwide.
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The Executive Committee of the SusHi Tech Tokyo 2024 Global Startup Programme expressed enthusiasm, stating, "We are honored to host Asia’s largest global innovation conference in Tokyo. With a vision to address global urban challenges, we anticipate influential players from around the world gathering annually, creating a stronger future together.
The program aligns with TMG's "Global Innovation with STARTUP" initiative, aiming to increase the number of unicorn companies, start-ups, and public-private collaborations in Tokyo. This year's event, building on the success of previous editions, aims to catalyze innovation through speaking sessions, a pitch contest, and exhibits, attracting start-ups, investors, major corporations, and students from diverse backgrounds.
The SusHi Tech Challenge 2024, Asia’s largest pitch contest, will witness the participation of 507 companies from 43 countries and regions, competing for a grand prize of 10 million yen. Additionally, the Start-up Exhibition will showcase 429 companies, including international and domestic start-ups, with participation from various markets worldwide.
The VC/Investor Pavilion will offer a platform for start-ups to connect with domestic and international VCs and investors, fostering innovation and collaboration. Registrations for the event are still open, promising an enriching experience for attendees and a significant boost to global innovation efforts.
