#Japan #Fukuoka #Colive Fukuoka #Digital Nomad #Solo Entrepreneur

Fukuoka's Innovative Digital Nomad Initiative: Colive Fukuoka 2025

In a bold move towards attracting global talent, Fukuoka city is set to enhance its status as an international business hub through the 'Colive Fukuoka 2025' initiative. Starting from October 1 to 10, 2025, in collaboration with the company Yugyo, this program aims to engage digital nomads and solo entrepreneurs from around the globe, reflecting the current trends of the increasing 'solopreneur' market fueled by the advancement of AI and digital services.

The Rise of the Solopreneur in the AI Era

As technology evolves, the concept of one-person businesses becoming unicorns is becoming a reality. The Economist's recent article discussed how AI enables individuals to launch companies in less than 90 minutes, exemplified by the success of the AI coding firm Base44, which achieved an acquisition with just eight members. Historically, company size and staff number were indicators of success, but now impact and innovation from small teams and solopreneurs have become the new benchmarks for achievement.

Fukuoka City is keenly aware of this shift. For years, it has pioneered support for overseas entrepreneurs, starting back in 2012 with initiatives aimed at integrating startup support into regional growth strategies. By issuing Japan's first startup visa for foreign entrepreneurs in 2019, Fukuoka positioned itself as a leader in this arena. However, with many cities now pursuing similar agendas, establishing unique strategies is essential for Fukuoka to maintain its competitive edge as 'Asia’s Gateway.'

The Success of Previous Initiatives

The initiative started gaining traction with the first Colive Fukuoka event in 2023, which invited over 436 participants from 45 countries and generated approximately 110 million yen in local economic impact. Interestingly, over 30% of those participants identified as entrepreneurs. With these accomplishments in mind, Fukuoka has begun to align its tourism policies with startup initiatives, setting the stage for a dynamic ecosystem that attracts traveling solopreneurs into its fold.

Unveiling Colive Fukuoka 2025: A Dynamic Program

The 'Colive Fukuoka 2025' aims to foster a culturally rich and collaborative environment. Through programs highlighting the joy of life ('Ikigai'), environmental experiences, art, and music, the initiative intends to restore Fukuoka's recognition as a vital entrepreneurship hub in Asia.

October 1-3: Colive Fukuoka Summit

Kicking off with the theme 'Envision Tomorrow Together', the summit will facilitate connections among solopreneurs and digital nomads, enabling them to share ideas around new career paths and modern lifestyles. Notable speakers will include:

• - Tami Nishiyama (Buddhist priest and DJ) discussing the future of Ikigai from a Buddhist perspective.
• - A senior entrepreneur aged over 75 sharing insights on the truth of Ikigai.
• - Ikumi Yoshimatsu, the first Japanese winner of the Miss International pageant, addressing women's empowerment.

October 4-5: Signature Music & Art Festival

The weekend will showcase a signature event on Nokoshima Island, offering attendees an opportunity to indulge in artistic and musical experiences, reveling in freedom beyond business constraints. Last year, the event attracted about 331 participants in a population of 600, showcasing its success.

October 6-9: Co-Creation in Startup & Global Business

RAMEN TECH - Global Summit 2025 (October 8-9)
Fukuoka will host one of Western Japan's largest startup conferences, anticipated to draw around 4,000 attendees. The event will feature global pitch sessions, startup booths, and networking opportunities with investors and larger corporations, facilitating exceptional business creation.

Real Estate Tour (October 6)
Following last year's media spotlight, this expanded tour will provide foreign startups and solopreneurs insights into Fukuoka's housing and investment environment, guided by local real estate experts.

Nomad University (October 7)
Led by Akina, Colive Fukuoka’s co-founder and recognized as the world's top digital nomad, this forum will investigate the new working patterns of digital nomads, bridging academic research with practical strategies for global entrepreneurial success.

Cultural Experiences (October 6 & 8)
Coworking experiences by the beach and at renovated hot springs, combined with sake brewery tours, will offer participants a chance to deeply connect with local communities while enjoying cultural encounters and networking opportunities.

Social Entrepreneur Program (October 9)
Collaborating with the World Economic Forum's 'Catalyst Now', this program invites global social entrepreneurs and leaders to engage in panel discussions regarding social innovation and addressing societal challenges.

Closing Keynote (October 10)
Ken Honda, author of the bestseller 'Happy Money' and known as the 'Zen Millionaire', will impart insights on redefining success and promoting a liberated lifestyle, making it a fitting conclusion for the program.

How to Participate

Interested participants can join by registering for free and purchasing tickets for specific events, including bundle options for three or ten days. Pricing is set at €297.10 for participation in the Colive Fukuoka Summit over three days.

For corporate sponsorship opportunities and media inquiries, Fukuoka City welcomes engagement for further collaborations. Further details and registration can be found on the official website: Colive Fukuoka.

About Yugyo, Inc.

Embarking on a mission to create a world where everyone can be where they are meant to be, Yugyo, Inc. specializes in product development and marketing support for the burgeoning digital nomad market, aiming to connect individuals with opportunities that resonate with their passions.

Company Overview:

• - Name: Yugyo, Inc.
• - CEO: Ryo Osera
• - Established: September 28, 2022
• - Location: 8-13 Gionmachi, Hakata, Fukuoka Prefecture
• - Website: Yugyo