# Japan is Back
import kyoto from future
class IVS_Startup:
def __init__(self):
self.status = "back"
self.location = "kyoto"
def execute(self):
return "Japan is Back"
# Japan is Back
import kyoto from future
class IVS_Startup:
def __init__(self):
self.status = "back"
self.location = "kyoto"
def execute(self):
return "Japan is Back"
Total Funding Raised
3,000
3,000
100 million yen
Companies Exited
60
60
Company
Finalists Produced
400
400
100 million yen
IPO
M&A
Funding of 1 billion yen or more
01
Evaluations from Top Judges
Leading Japanese entrepreneurs, executives, and investors will take the stage as judges. Going beyond simple evaluation, you will receive real, practical feedback on your business model and market strategy on the spot.
02
3,000 spectators, and beyond that, 10,000
Pitch on the main stage at IVS2026 DAY 3 in front of 3,000 entrepreneurs, business leaders, investors, and media professionals. Plus, through YouTube streaming, your pitch will reach the eyes of more than 10,000 people outside the venue.
03
Mentoring during the selection process
Support begins the moment you’re selected as a finalist. Through multiple pitch practice sessions and one-on-one meetings with investors, the weeks leading up to the event become an opportunity to improve not only the quality of your pitch, but also the clarity of your business itself.
04
The winner receives 10 million yen.
In collaboration with Kyoto Prefecture, IVS will present the “Startup Kyoto International Award,” which provides intensive support to startups aiming to compete and succeed on the global stage. As a winner benefit, the top recipient will be awarded up to 10 million yen.
2026/4/21 (Tue)
Application deadline
4/28(Tue)-5/1(Fri)
First-round interviews
5/20(Wed)・21(Thu)
Final interviews → Finalists decided
6/17(Wed)
Pitch practice session / Filming
7/3(Fri)
Main event @ Kyoto Miyakomesse
IVS2026 DAY3 Main Stage
Have a product that can be demoed
No restrictions on industry or business model
No restrictions on nationality or location (overseas startups are also welcome)
Application deadline: Tuesday, April 21
Application deadline: Tuesday, April 21