Call for Applications: Creative Tech Shibuya 2026

The program will officially collaborate with an urban art and technology event, DIG SHIBUYA 2026. Participating startups will gain access to a slew of benefits, including presentation and product showcase opportunities, business matching with Japanese companies and investors, and workshops led by experts. Many overseas startups aiming to introduce new culture and innovation or to explore expansion into the Japanese market are expected to participate.

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Program Overview

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Dates: February 11 (Wed, National Holiday) – February 15 (Sun), 2026 (some sessions by invitation only)

Format: On-site program in Shibuya

Location: Shibuya Stream Hall and surrounding venues

Details: 5-day program for overseas creative startups

Organizers: Shibuya Startup Support, Shibuya City

Startup Application Deadline: Sunday, November 23, 2025

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Target Startups

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• Startups that meet the following criteria:
  
  • Overseas creative startups that are seriously evaluating or have already begun entering the Japanese market
  • Willingness to explore collaboration opportunities with Japanese companies
  • Strong potential in terms of technology, market size, or traction

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• Categories:
  
  • Digital Media & Content (creator tools, video production tech, on-chain/Web3)
  • Design & Art (digital art, graphic design, UI/UX design, 3D printing art)
  • Entertainment & Gaming (animation/VFX, VR/AR/metaverse, fan economy, immersive experiences, game development software, indie games)
  • Music & Audio (production tools, digital instruments, music creation software, immersive audio, voice tech, streaming tech)
  • Fashion & Lifestyle (digital fashion, smart clothing, personalized experiences, AR/VR fashion applications)
  • Publishing & Reading (interactive tools, storytelling technologies, spatial computing apps, edutainment)

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Participant Profile

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• Creativetech startups/entrepreneurs (mainly overseas)
• Japanese companies (including IP holders and publishers)
• Investors, VCs, CVCs
• Ecosystem builders/communities
• Government officials
• Media
• Creators, artists, influencers
• Students

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Examples of Collaboration Opportunities

Participate in workshops, group discussions, and company visits to build early relationships with overseas startups

• Identify partners for expanding your IP to global markets
• Support the Japanese market entry of your portfolio’s overseas startups

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Agenda

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Day 1｜February 11 (Wed, National Holiday)

Kickoff & Welcome Party

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Day 2｜February 12 (Thu)

Workshops, group discussions, company visits, networking sessions

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Day 3｜February 13 (Fri)

Presentations, exhibitions, business matching, and networking within DIG SHIBUYA 2026

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Days 4–5｜February 14 (Sat) – 15 (Sun)

Participation in DIG SHIBUYA 2026 side events, farewell party, and walking tour of the Shibuya/Yoyogi Park area

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How to Apply

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▶︎ Overseas Startups

Please apply via the form below.

(Application deadline: November 23, 2025)

Program Application Form

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▶︎ Japanese Companies & Investors

For companies and investors interested in collaborating with this program, please contact us through the form below.

Collaboration Inquiry Form

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