How to Get Investment as a Foreign Founder in Japan

If you would like to hear the experiences of people with deep startup experience, then join us for this 'Global Startup' panel event. Hear candid talks by successful entrepreneurs, sharing best practices, strategies and mistakes to avoid from those who have done it before. How do you get started on your entrepreneurial journey? How do you appeal to global markets? How should you structure your business? How do you find talented people to join your team? What is it really like to build a successful company, and what are the steps necessary?

Raising capital in Japan as a foreign founder can feel complex, from cultural nuances to relationship-driven deal flow. But with the right strategy, network, and positioning, Japan offers real funding opportunities for global startups ready to commit.

This session breaks down how international founders can successfully attract Japanese investors and navigate the local fundraising landscape. As part of the Road to Global Gathering 2026 series, we bring together experienced VCs, Founders, and ecosystem leaders to share what actually works, straight from the source.

From understanding investor expectations to building trust, accessing networks, and pitching the right way, this conversation is designed for founders who want to raise smart capital and build long-term in Japan.
Global Gathering 2026 has already attracted over 500 attendees and is on track to surpass 1,000 participants. Our partner event alone is expected to welcome more than 200 attendees.

Don’t miss this chance to gain actionable insights, expand your network, and position your startup for success in Japan. Join us now and be part of the journey!

❯ 🎤 Speakers

• Jeremy Kai Proctor – VC, Headline
• Yamato Sasagawa – Principal (Senior Level), WiL | US & Japan-based VC
• Ibrahim Orhan - CEO & Co-founder at Kanaria Tech

❯ Moderator:

• Erdinc Ekinci - Founder, Investment Lead of Co-capital.vc, Co-Founder, CEO of Openfor.co, Managing Director of Founder Institute Japan/Korea/Taiwan

❯ Agenda:

• Welcome & Opening Remarks
• Setting the Scene: Why Tokyo, Why Now?
• Panel Discussion – Key Topics:
• What Japanese VCs really look for in foreign founders
• How to build trust and long-term investor relationships
• How to plug into Japan’s startup ecosystem fast
• Real founder stories: “Why Japan?”
• Live Q&A with Speakers
• Closing & Networking

❯❯ This is an in-person event, so be sure to RSVP at https://fi.co/e/388096/meetup to secure your spot and receive further details.