Applications Open for Seed/Early-Stage Pitch Contest 'StartupGo!Go! The Pitch'
StartupGoGo and GxPartners have begun accepting applications for the Kyushu-based pitch event 'StartupGo!Go! The Pitch' starting May 20, 2026. The competition culminates on October 9 with a 1 million JPY grand prize and opportunities for startup-investor matching.
📋 Article Processing Timeline
- 📰 Published: May 20, 2026 at 19:00
- 🔍 Collected: May 20, 2026 at 10:31
- 🤖 AI Analyzed: May 20, 2026 at 10:40 (8 min after Collected)
StartupGoGo (Representative: Toshiyasu Kishihara) and GxPartners LLP (Representative Partners: Toshiyasu Kishihara, Ken Nakahara, Hiroshi Terai) will hold 'StartupGo!Go! The Pitch,' one of Kyushu's largest pitch events for seed and early-stage startups.
This event is co-hosted with 'FFG Mirai no Kaigi,' and applications are open from Wednesday, May 20, 2026, to Monday, August 10, 2026.
[About StartupGo!Go! The Pitch]
This contest, now in its 13th year, is part of the 'StartupGo!Go!' series. Last year saw a record-breaking 252 applications. The winner receives a 1 million JPY prize, and semi-finalists are eligible for various sponsored awards. Many startups have successfully secured funding and partnerships through this competition.
This year's theme, 'Bridge to your [ ],' aims to create a venue that serves as a bridge for the next step in a startup's journey.
[Contest Overview]
- Date: Friday, October 9, 2026
- Venue: ONE FUKUOKA Conference Hall, THE BALLROOM (6F, ONE FUKUOKA BLDG, 1-11-1 Tenjin, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka City)
[Application Requirements]
- Total equity funding under 100 million JPY as of May 20, 2026 (excluding debt finance).
- Pre-seed or early-stage startup (pre-incorporation is acceptable).
- Ability to attend the final in person.
[Selection Process]
Includes document screening and selections at accredited pitch events.
[Judges]
Comprised of over 20 major domestic VCs, corporate new business development representatives, and industry experts.
This event is co-hosted with 'FFG Mirai no Kaigi,' and applications are open from Wednesday, May 20, 2026, to Monday, August 10, 2026.
[About StartupGo!Go! The Pitch]
This contest, now in its 13th year, is part of the 'StartupGo!Go!' series. Last year saw a record-breaking 252 applications. The winner receives a 1 million JPY prize, and semi-finalists are eligible for various sponsored awards. Many startups have successfully secured funding and partnerships through this competition.
This year's theme, 'Bridge to your [ ],' aims to create a venue that serves as a bridge for the next step in a startup's journey.
[Contest Overview]
- Date: Friday, October 9, 2026
- Venue: ONE FUKUOKA Conference Hall, THE BALLROOM (6F, ONE FUKUOKA BLDG, 1-11-1 Tenjin, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka City)
[Application Requirements]
- Total equity funding under 100 million JPY as of May 20, 2026 (excluding debt finance).
- Pre-seed or early-stage startup (pre-incorporation is acceptable).
- Ability to attend the final in person.
[Selection Process]
Includes document screening and selections at accredited pitch events.
[Judges]
Comprised of over 20 major domestic VCs, corporate new business development representatives, and industry experts.
FAQ
What is unique about StartupGo!Go! The Pitch?
It offers mentorship, pitch refinement, and networking with over 20 VCs, acting as a bridge for growth rather than just a competition.
What is the relationship with FFG Mirai no Kaigi?
The Pitch is co-hosted alongside FFG Mirai no Kaigi, a major networking event in Kyushu.
How can I apply?
Register via the official website (https://startup-gogo.com/event) and follow the instructions sent by the event secretariat.