KOZAROCKS 2026: A Startup Conference Fostering Innovation in Okinawa
KOZAROCKS 2026: A Glimpse into a Bright Future for Okinawa
The KOZAROCKS 2026 conference is set to make waves on July 10th and 11th, 2026, in Okinawa, leading a groundbreaking exploration into the future of the region’s startup ecosystem. Orchestrated by Four Seasons Co., Ltd., this startup conference promises discussions bridging startups, investment, and the local culture. Focused on the theme of "Cultural Innovation," KOZAROCKS will dive into three key sessions reflecting on the past decade at Lagoon KOZA, the growth of Okinawa’s sports industry, and innovative strategies for community-building in the region.
Session Highlights
Session 1: Celebrating 10 Years of Lagoon KOZA
This session marks the 10th anniversary of Lagoon KOZA, a startup support facility that arose from what was once a quiet, shuttered street in Koza. Insightful discussions will be led by influential figures in Okinawa’s entrepreneurial landscape.
- - Featured Speakers:
- Ryuji Tokiwaki, a visionary behind the transformation of Okinawa into a hub for diverse entrepreneurs and investors.
- Masatoku Hashimoto, founder of Nulabo, focusing on collaborative tools to enhance teamwork and creative projects in startups.
The session will offer a retrospective of Lagoon KOZA’s transformational journey over the last decade and will contemplate future challenges and opportunities for Koza as it looks forward to the next decade.
Key Discussion Points:
- - The origins and development of the startup café that laid the groundwork for Lagoon.
- - Major challenges faced during the first decade: pivotal moments and survival stories.
- - Understanding the current potential and hurdles of Koza, along with crafting a future vision.
Session 2: Nourishing Sports Industries in Okinawa
In the face of Okinawa's thriving sports culture and favorable conditions, this session will explore how to harness local assets to shape a burgeoning sports industry.
- - Guest Speakers:
- Issei Washizaki, founder of Japan League, aiming to elevate sports opportunities for aspiring athletes in Okinawa.
Aspects of this session will cover how Okinawa's climate, culture, and proximity to Asia make it an ideal ground for sports development, fostering an interconnected sports ecosystem.
Session 3: Transforming Trash into Treasure
The last session sheds light on a novel approach to urban development: taking what was once deemed useless and turning it into valuable community assets.
- - Speakers Include:
- Yamato Okado, CEO of Kapok, specializing in transforming abandoned materials into new structures in Koza.
- Hiroki Toya, CEO of Kitakyushu Housekeeping Co., sharing insights on region-specific redevelopment initiatives.
This session will demonstrate how to effectively use seemingly arbitrary resources— including abandoned spaces— to breathe new life into the community.
Additional Activities: The Palmira Night Market
Concurrent with the KOZAROCKS activities, the Palmira Street will host a vibrant night market inspired by Taiwan, adding cultural flavor and delicious culinary experiences to the conference ambiance.
Call for Participation
Tickets are currently available with early bird discounts until May 31, 2026. Various options are offered including single day passes, two-day session passes, and student rates. Enthusiasts across startups, technology, culture, and business are encouraged to seize this opportunity to engage with thought leaders and practitioners in Okinawa’s evolving landscape.
For detailed inquiries and ticket purchases, visit the official website: KOZAROCKS 2026. Join us in shaping the future of entrepreneurship and culture in Okinawa!
Topics Business Technology）
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