As part of the latter half of Creative Tech Shibuya 2026, Shibuya Startup Support (SSS) ran a residential program in collaboration with DIG SHIBUYA 2026, a city-wide art and technology event.
This program was designed to support international startups in the creative tech sector entering the Japanese market, while also creating opportunities to connect with domestic companies and investors. Over the course of five days, participants were provided with multiple opportunities including mentoring, pitch sessions, exhibitions, and networking.
In the first half of the program, startups deepened their understanding of the Japanese market through kickoff sessions, workshops on market entry, and one-on-one mentoring with VCs and CVCs—you can read about those in part one of our report.
In the second half, the program focused on expanding touchpoints with a broader audience through stage pitches and exhibitions in collaboration with DIG SHIBUYA. This article highlights activities from Day 3 onward.
On the third day, a pitch session was held onstage at the DIG SHIBUYA venue. Each startup delivered a four-minute presentation of their technologies and services to an audience including startup stakeholders, corporate representatives, and general atendees.
For some startups, this was their first experience pitching on a large stage, and moments of nervousness were visible. However, through post-pitch conversations and networking with attendees, they gained valuable exposure and formed connections that could lead to future business opportunities.
(Photo: Shibuya City)
Exhibition booths were also set up for startups to demonstrate their prototypes and services. Feedback obtained through direct interaction with visitors provided better understanding of users and how to improve future offerings. Some also engaged with the media, gaining additional exposure.
(Photo: Shibuya City)
On the fourth day, participants toured official DIG SHIBUYA programs across Shibuya. They experienced exhibitions featuring XR, AI-generated art, and projection mapping. These installations, which integrated urban space with digital content, allowed participants to experience first-hand the experimental, creative culture that defines Shibuya.
Participants also visited SHIBUYA SKY, an observation facility, where they viewed a drone show presented as part of the DIG SHIBUYA program. This large-scale urban performance demonstrated how technology can be integrated into city experiences, inspiring startups to consider new possibilities for urban-scale implementation.
(Photo: Shibuya City)
Following this, a networking session was held with investors and ecosystem builders. Discussions covered potential proof-of-concept projects and investment opportunities, fostering relationships for continued collaboration among startups and stakeholders.
On the final day, a meetup session was held with VCs and ecosystem stakeholders. Discussions focused on challenges and future directions for business development in the Japanese market.
Building on insights gained from earlier mentoring, pitches, and exhibitions, the small-group format allowed for in-depth discussions tailored to individual interests, including startup ecosystems in different countries, industry-specific advice, and practical guidance from foreign entrepreneurs already operating in Japan.
(Photo: Shibuya City)
After the session, participants visited teamLab Borderless at Azabudai Hills to experience this immersive project combining digital art and technology.
Throughout the program, participating startups established connections with Japanese companies and investors, leading to concrete follow-up actions. Feedback from visitors during exhibitions and interactions is expected to contribute to future product development and market strategies.
Participants deepened their understanding of Japan’s market characteristics and business culture, with the diversity and international atmosphere of Shibuya helping them discover the potential for business expansion in the area.
We would like to thank all companies, organizations, and individuals who supported this program. We also extend our heartfelt appreciation to all startups who participated in Creative Tech Shibuya 2026, as well as everyone involved in its operation.
SSS will continue to promote connections between international startups and Japanese companies and investors, while contributing to the development of Shibuya’s startup ecosystem.
Shibuya Startup Support:https://shibuya-startup-support.jp/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/shibuya-startup-support/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shibuya.startup.support
X (formerly Twitter): http://twitter.com/ShibuyaStartup
