As SusHi Tech Tokyo 2026 prepares to open on April 27 at Tokyo Big Sight, the event is set to reinforce its position as Asia’s largest global innovation conference, bringing together startups, investors, corporates and policymakers from across the world.
Now in its fourth edition, the platform has evolved into a critical node within Japan’s broader startup strategy, aimed at accelerating innovation and positioning Tokyo as a global startup hub.
Scale and Global Participation
This year’s event is the largest yet, with:
- 770 startup exhibitors from around the world
- 820 applications for the SusHi Tech Challenge across 60 countries
- 10,000 business meetings expected
- 60,000 participants, including global investors and ecosystem leaders
- 158 sessions spanning technology, cities and entrepreneurship
The scale reflects Tokyo’s ambition to create a globally competitive innovation ecosystem, supported by strong public-private collaboration.
A Platform Built for Business Outcomes
Unlike many technology conferences, SusHi Tech Tokyo is designed with a strong commercial focus.
A structured business matching system, supported by an official app, enables participants to identify partners, schedule meetings and build relationships efficiently. AI-driven recommendations and dedicated meeting spaces further enhance deal-making opportunities.
The event also features:
- Open innovation zones connecting corporates and startups
- Investor-led sessions and networking forums
- Reverse pitches from global cities seeking solutions
- Dedicated spaces for university spinouts and SMEs
These elements position the event as a marketplace for innovation, rather than just a showcase.
Key Themes Driving Innovation
At the core of SusHi Tech Tokyo 2026 is the theme of “Realising Sustainable Cities with High Technology.”
The programme is structured around four key focus areas:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Robotics
- Resilience and infrastructure
- Entertainment and digital experiences
These themes reflect both commercial opportunity and long-term societal impact, spanning industries from mobility and manufacturing to urban development and media.
Global Ecosystem Meets Japan
The event will see participation from:
- 22 international pavilions representing countries and cities
- Leading global venture capital firms and institutional investors
- Major corporates driving open innovation
- Universities and research institutions
This convergence of stakeholders highlights Japan’s intent to position itself not just as a technology leader, but as a connector within the global innovation ecosystem.
Beyond the Venue
SusHi Tech Tokyo extends beyond conference halls, with partner events, city-wide activations and cultural experiences designed to showcase Tokyo as a global innovation destination.
From startup pitches and investor meetings to experiential technology showcases, the event blends business, technology and culture in a way that few global conferences attempt.
As global competition intensifies in areas such as AI, deep tech and sustainability, SusHi Tech Tokyo 2026 represents a key moment for Japan.
By bringing together capital, innovation and policy under one platform, the event is not only showcasing startups, but actively shaping the next phase of Japan’s innovation economy.