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IVS 2024 KYOTO / IVS Crypto 2024 KYOTO, Japan's largest startup conference for entrepreneurs and investors, was held for three days from July 4 to 6, 2024, at Kyoto Pulse Plaza.
IVS is primarily attended by startup executives, venture capitalists, and individual investors — as well as investment and new business managers from major companies seeking open innovation partners.
Like a business show, the venue has exhibition booths where companies exhibit their products and services, as well as a number of lectures and panel discussions. There are also side events held throughout Kyoto City.
IVS2023 LAUNCHPAD KYOTO is the resident pitch contest, and one of the largest pitch contests in Japan. This year there were also many reverse pitch sessions, where VCs and business companies present their business and investment policies to startups and fund investors. It was a great opportunity to learn about the differences among VCs and their investment aims, which are rarely heard in a group setting.
In addition, during the 250 sessions on 17 stages, both large companies and start-ups presented their own information on business prospects, strategies, and progress in web3, AI, and other areas, creating matching opportunities. There were also study sessions for entrepreneurs, with sessions on topics such as how to handle stock options or fundraising.
As in the previous year, the Governor of Kyoto Prefecture and the Mayor of Kyoto City gave opening speeches. Prime Minister Kishida also delivered a video message impressing upon the audience that startup development continues to be an important policy of the Japanese government.
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With many participants from overseas, the materials and conversations during discussions and speeches were simultaneously translated into English and subtitled on the screen.
A symbolic part of the IVS culture are the numerous side events. This year they exceeded 300, with many being held in various locations around Kyoto. These included TAKEOFF TOKYO’s Happy Hour, an IVS poker night, a VC matching event at a temple, and a morning run.
This year's IVS event was again very busy, with even more attendees than last year. The number of participants from overseas also increased, with IVS providing an opportunity to showcase Japan's startup initiatives.
IVS has now been held in Kyoto for two years in a row, but it will be interesting to see where the event will be held next year. We look forward to it, and hope to see you there!
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