IVS 2024 Event Report
Written By Social Impact Lab Japan
IVS Kyoto 2024 was a dynamic event that merged Japan's rich heritage with cutting-edge innovation, bringing a global platform to the heart of Kyoto. Under the theme "Cross Boundaries," the event brought together business insights and cutting-edge technology, showcasing how innovative startups are shaping the world. IVS Crypto 2024 ran concurrently, alongside with more than 200 other side events, welcoming more than 15,000 participants over three days.
The event opened with an honorary message from Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, who highlighted Japan's commitment to mobilizing capital to help new companies tackle social issues such as climate change, disease, and shifting demographics. He pledged to increase investments in startups, with the goal of positioning Japan as a frontrunner in the global startup ecosystem. Prominent Japanese leaders took the main stage to discuss the barriers to industry creation and the future of innovation, emphasizing the theme of crossing boundaries. Key speakers included Takatoshi Nishiwaki, Governor of Kyoto Prefectural Government, Fumiaki Kobayashi, Member of the House of Representatives, Shouichi Iwanaga, President and Representative Director of Resona Bank, and many other distinguished guest panelists.
The event was supported by numerous partners, including JETRO, Yamawake, MUFG Innovation Partners, 500 Global, and many more. Panel discussions, startup pitches, and venture capital insights from various industries were featured across the stages. The sessions covered a broad range of topics, including Global Health & Planetary Health, Achieving the 2050 Carbon Neutral Goal, the Future of AI, Gendered Innovation, and Key Agendas for Japanese Startup Development. The EmpowerHer stage was a standout feature, drawing considerable interest and engagement from attendees. Featuring renowned female leaders in the startup ecosystem, the stage highlighted the significant role of women in entrepreneurship and innovation.
Overall, IVS Kyoto 2024 was a remarkable event, featuring exceptional speakers, inspiring sessions, and a global audience. It reinforced Kyoto's role as a culture hub of Japan and celebrated its drive for innovation. Social Impact Lab Japan (SILJ), proudly joined as an IVS Community Partner and plays a pivotal role in supporting impact entrepreneurs. SILJ focuses on incubating, accelerating, and investing in startups that aim to make a positive difference locally and globally. Together with IVS Kyoto 2024, we look forward to providing a platform for transformative ideas that bridge tradition and the future of technology and entrepreneurship.
