Applications are now open for IVS2026 LAUNCHPAD, one of Japan’s longest-running startup pitch platforms, set to take place on July 3 during IVS2026 in Kyoto.
Unlike regular startup pitch competitions, IVS2026 LAUNCHPAD has become a curated pathway into one of Asia’s most established yet most challenging markets for new entrants.
Held as part of Japan’s major startup conference, IVS2026 will gather more than 13,000 participants across three days, bringing together startups, investors, corporates, and policymakers in one place. Within that environment, LAUNCHPAD stands out as the stage where early-stage companies can directly engage with Japan’s decision-makers.
IVS LAUNCHPAD: 20 Years of Startup Track Record
Since its launch in 2007, IVS LAUNCHPAD has built a consistent track record as a gateway for emerging startups.
Over the past two decades:
More than 5,000 startups have applied
Hundreds have been selected to pitch on the main stage
The broader ecosystem has produced 30 IPOs and 47 buyouts
This history positions LAUNCHPAD as one of the few pitch platforms in Japan with measurable outcomes tied to real growth trajectories.
Finalists present their companies in a six-minute pitch format, competing in front of leading investors, corporate executives, and ecosystem operators. The live audience reaches around 3,000 attendees, with an additional 10,000 viewers joining through online streaming.
For selected teams, the process begins well before the stage. Finalists go through structured mentoring and pitch refinement, engaging directly with investors and advisors during the selection phase.
Source: IVS2026
Why Kyoto, Why Now: Japan’s Startup Push Gains Momentum
The 2026 edition of IVS is built around a clear theme: “Japan is Back.”
Its structure reflects increasing involvement from regional stakeholders. The event is jointly organized by Headline Japan, Kyoto Prefecture, and Kyoto City, with a stated focus on strengthening the startup ecosystem and connecting startups with industry, academia, and government networks.
IVS itself has evolved in scale and positioning. What began as an invitation-only gathering has expanded into a 10,000-plus participant platform in recent years, now serving as a central meeting point for Japan’s startup ecosystem.
Kyoto plays a strategic role in this positioning. With its concentration of universities, research institutions, and established industries, the city provides a setting where startups can connect with both capital and deep industrial partners.
For global founders, this signals a market that is increasingly open to international participation, while still grounded in long-term industrial collaboration.
A Clear Value Proposition for Global Founders
IVS LAUNCHPAD is designed with simplicity and accessibility in mind. And eligible startups must:
Have a product that can be demonstrated
No restrictions on industry
No restrictions on nationality or location
This open approach makes LAUNCHPAD one of the few major Japanese platforms actively welcoming international startups at the early stage.
Beyond the pitch itself, selected participants gain access to the broader IVS environment. This includes exposure to investors, corporate partners, and ecosystem operators across the conference.
For finalists, the opportunity extends further. They receive structured support through mentoring sessions, helping refine both their pitch and business positioning ahead of the final stage.
The winner will receive up to JPY 10 million (approx. USD 65,000) through the Startup Kyoto International Award, a program supported by Kyoto Prefecture aimed at backing startups with global potential.
Source: IVS2026
Inside IVS2026: Where Connections Turn into Opportunities
At first glance, this may look like just another conference, but IVS2026 is structured to actually facilitate real interactions across different layers of the ecosystem.
The main IVS area, held at Miyakomesse and ROHM Theatre Kyoto, is open to a wide range of participants. It features stage sessions, startup exhibitions, and networking opportunities across more than 80 sessions and around 300 participating startups.
Alongside this, IVS introduces IVS CORE, a newly established, invitation-only environment held at Hotel Okura Kyoto. This space brings together startup executives, institutional investors, and senior corporate leaders in a more focused setting.
Within this structure, LAUNCHPAD functions as a bridge, connecting early-stage founders with both the open ecosystem and the more concentrated decision-making layer.
For startups, this creates a rare opportunity to engage with multiple stakeholders within a single platform.
What This Means for Korea and the Broader Asia Ecosystem
Beyond the event itself, IVS LAUNCHPAD reflects a broader trend shaping the Asia-Pacific startup landscape.
Across the region, countries are strengthening their positions as startup hubs. South Korea has focused on structured government programs and international startup attraction. Japan, on the other hand, is leveraging its corporate base and capital networks to support growth.
In this context, IVS LAUNCHPAD offers a complementary pathway. It provides global startups with access to Japan’s investor and corporate ecosystem, which remains one of the largest in Asia.
That is why for founders building cross-border strategies, this creates an opportunity to engage with multiple markets across the region, each offering different strengths.
IVS2026 LAUNCHPAD Application Timeline and How to Apply
Applications for IVS2026 LAUNCHPAD are now open, with details as follow:
Application deadline: April 21, 2026
First-round interviews: April 28 to May 1
Final interviews: May 20 to May 21
Pitch preparation and filming: June 17
Final event: July 3, 2026 (Kyoto)
Startups selected through the process will have the opportunity to participate in IVS2026 and present on the main stage during LAUNCHPAD.
Source: IVS2026
A Platform Built for Founders Ready to Engage Japan
IVS LAUNCHPAD is designed for founders who are ready to take the next step in engaging with Japan’s startup ecosystem.
It offers direct exposure, structured preparation, and access to a network that includes investors, corporates, and policymakers.
As Japan continues to strengthen its startup environment, platforms like LAUNCHPAD are playing a central role in connecting global innovation with local opportunity.
For startups exploring entry into Japan, this represents a clear and practical starting point.
Ready to Step into Japan’s Startup Network?
If you are building a product-ready startup and exploring opportunities in Japan, IVS2026 LAUNCHPAD offers a rare chance to get in front of the right audience at the right moment.
Applications are open to founders worldwide. The process is competitive but strategically designed to support startups that are ready to engage seriously with investors and corporate partners in Japan.
Submit your application before April 21 and take the first step toward pitching on one of Japan’s most established startup stages in Kyoto this July.
Japan is Back: Step Onto the Stage Stronger. Today.
Key Takeaway
IVS2026 LAUNCHPAD is a 20-year startup pitch platform with 5,000+ applicants and proven outcomes including 30 IPOs and 47 buyouts
Open globally with no nationality or industry restrictions, requiring only a demo-ready product
Finalists pitch to ~3,000 onsite and 10,000+ online audience during IVS2026 in Kyoto
Selected startups gain access to Japan’s investor, corporate, and ecosystem network
Winner receives up to ¥10 million (~$65,000) through the Startup Kyoto International Award
The event is part of IVS2026, a 13,000+ participant startup conference positioning Japan as a global startup hub
Provides a structured entry point for global startups exploring the Japan market and cross-border expansion in Asia
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