IVS2026

IVS2026 is one of Japan's largest startup conferences, running for three days from July 1 to 3, 2026, in Kyoto. Established in 2007, it gathers over 10,000 participants, including startup founders, investors, major corporations, creators, and innovators from across Japan and abroad. This year's theme is 'Japan is Back'. The conference is split across two areas. The open 'IVS' section spans the Kyoto International Exhibition Hall 'Miyako Messe' and ROHM Theatre Kyoto, while the invitation-only 'IVS CORE' section at Hotel Okura Kyoto concentrates on high-level decision-making and industry leadership. The three days combine pitches, sessions, and extensive networking. A centerpiece is the IVS LAUNCHPAD pitch finals, where startups compete on stage. Alongside the main programming, the event covers a broad range of topics across the startup and technology ecosystem, drawing a large international and domestic audience to Kyoto.