The final application window for IVS2026 LAUNCHPAD is now open. Startups have until May 7, 2026 to apply for one of Japan’s longest-running startup pitch platforms, taking place during IVS Kyoto this July.
Held on July 3 at Kyoto Miyakomesse as part of IVS2026, LAUNCHPAD brings selected startups onto a stage in front of investors, corporates, and ecosystem leaders gathered from across Japan and abroad.
IVS LAUNCHPAD runs on a fixed annual cycle, so this closing week marks the last opportunity for global founders to enter the 2026 cohort.
IVS2026 LAUNCHPAD: A Proven Platform with Measurable Outcomes
IVS LAUNCHPAD has operated since 2007 and marks its 20th year in 2026. The platform has received more than 5,000 startup applications, with hundreds selected to pitch on the main stage.
Across the broader IVS and LAUNCHPAD ecosystem, outcomes include 30 IPOs and 47 buyouts, alongside more than 100 companies raising over JPY 100 million (~ USD 627,000). These figures position LAUNCHPAD as one of Japan’s most established early-stage pitch platforms.
Finalists present a six-minute pitch after progressing through a structured selection process. The stage audience includes approximately 3,000 onsite participants, with an additional 10,000 viewers joining online.
A Structured Selection Process: From Application to Main Stage
Startups that apply before the May 7 deadline enter a defined evaluation process:
- May 15–16: First-round interviews
- May 27–28: Final interviews and finalist selection
- July 3: Main stage pitch at IVS Kyoto
Selected teams move beyond submission into direct engagement with investors and ecosystem operators during interviews and preparation stages.
This process is designed to refine both the pitch and the business positioning before stepping onto the main stage.
Inside IVS2026: Where Japan’s Startup Network Comes Together
A 13,000-Person Startup Conference in Kyoto
IVS2026 will be held from July 1 to July 3 in Kyoto, organized by the IVS KYOTO Executive Committee, which includes Headline Japan, Kyoto Prefecture, and Kyoto City.
The conference brings together startups, investors, large corporations, and policymakers, with more than 13,000 participants expected.
Two Layers of Access: Open and Invitation-Only
IVS2026 introduces a dual structure:
- IVS Area (Miyakomesse and ROHM Theatre Kyoto)
Open to a wide range of participants, featuring stage sessions, a startup market with around 300 companies, and networking opportunities. - IVS CORE (Hotel Okura Kyoto)
A fully invitation-only environment for decision-makers, including startup executives, institutional investors, and corporate leaders. Sessions are off the record, with a focus on fundraising discussions, M&A matching, and business decisions.
Within this structure, LAUNCHPAD connects early-stage startups to both visibility and access across the broader ecosystem.
Who You Will Be Pitching To: Active Investors and Operators
The judging panel for IVS2026 LAUNCHPAD brings together investors, operators, and executives who are actively shaping Japan’s startup ecosystem.
Confirmed judges include:
- Shintaro Aikawa, representing GREE Ventures, with experience investing in AI, deeptech, and early-stage startups
- Taekyun Lim from Kiwoom Investment, a Korean venture capital firm active in cross-border investment between Korea, Japan, and Asia
- Takao Ozawa, founder of Boost Capital and former CEO of Yahoo Japan
- Masami Katakura, partner at Ernst & Young ShinNihon LLC with extensive experience in IPO support and startup advisory
- Kathy Matsui, co-founder of MPower Partners, Japan’s ESG-focused venture capital fund
- Keisuke Tatsuoka, founder of ALPHA Co., Ltd., former General Partner at Global Brain with multiple IPO track records
- Kotaro Chiba, founder of DRONE FUND and experienced startup operator and investor
- Yuka Hata from Japan Investment Corporation (JIC), with global private equity experience
- Tomoyuki Hirano, leading startup financing, M&A, and IPO support at Daiwa Securities
- Taro Fukuyama, founder of Rice Capital and Y Combinator-backed entrepreneur
- Nobuhiro Yagi, leading deeptech investments from academic research
- Sawako Yoshioka from San-in Godo Bank, representing traditional financial institutions with experience across retail banking, new business development, and executive leadership
This panel reflects a mix of venture capital, corporate investment, institutional capital, and cross-border expertise. So evaluation comes directly from individuals who are actively investing, building, and scaling companies across Japan and the broader Asia-Pacific region.
Why This Matters for Global and Korean Startups
A Practical Entry Point Into Japan
Japan remains one of Asia’s largest startup markets, supported by strong corporate participation and institutional capital. At the same time, access to this ecosystem has traditionally required local networks and long-term engagement.
IVS LAUNCHPAD lowers that initial barrier by offering a direct application pathway with no nationality restrictions. The only requirement is a demo-ready product.
Cross-Border Momentum Between Korea and Japan
The presence of Kiwoom Investment, a Korean venture capital firm active in Japan, highlights ongoing cross-border investment activity between Korea and Japan.
Korean startups have increasingly explored Japan as a market for expansion, while Japanese investors continue to look for opportunities across Asia. LAUNCHPAD operates within this broader movement, creating a shared platform where these interactions can begin.
And for founders building regional strategies, this aligns with a wider Asia-Pacific trend where cross-border venture capital and partnerships are becoming central to growth.
What Founders Should Know Before Applying
A Competitive but Accessible Platform
IVS LAUNCHPAD is open globally, but selection remains competitive. Startups are expected to present a clear product and demonstrate readiness for market engagement.
Access Comes First, Outcomes Follow
Selected teams gain access to the broader IVS environment, including exposure to investors, corporate partners, and ecosystem operators gathered in Kyoto. Finalists also receive structured mentoring, helping refine both their pitch and business positioning ahead of the main stage.
The winner will receive up to JPY 10 million (approximately USD 65,000) through the Startup Kyoto International Award, supported by Kyoto Prefecture.
At the same time, startups should approach the platform with realistic expectations.
LAUNCHPAD creates access and visibility within Japan’s ecosystem. Business outcomes such as funding or partnerships depend on follow-up engagement beyond the event.
IVS2026 LAUNCHPAD Final Call: Apply Before May 7 Deadline
The application window for IVS2026 LAUNCHPAD closes on May 7, 2026.
If you’re planning on entering Japan or expanding your presence in Asia, this final week is a defined opportunity to step into the country’s startup ecosystem through a structured and established platform.
Apply now before the window closes.
This is where your Japan expansion begins.
Key Takeaway
- IVS2026 LAUNCHPAD application deadline is May 7, 2026
- 20-year startup pitch platform with 5,000+ applications and 30 IPOs, 47 buyouts
- Global eligibility with no nationality restriction, requiring a demo-ready product
- Structured selection process with interviews in May and final pitch on July 3 in Kyoto
- Part of IVS2026, a 13,000+ participant startup conference in Kyoto
- Finalists pitch to ~3,000 onsite audience and 10,000+ online viewers
- Provides access to Japan’s investor network, corporates, and ecosystem leaders
- Relevant for global startups entering Japan market and Korea–Japan cross-border venture activity
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