#Japan #Fukuoka #Innovation Hub #Venture Café #CIC Fukuoka

CIC Fukuoka Marks a Milestone with a Major Advertising Campaign

CIC Fukuoka, managed by CIC Japan and based in Toranomon, Tokyo, is set to kick off its first large-scale advertising campaign on January 19, 2026. This campaign commemorates the significant milestone of surpassing 100 resident companies within its innovation hub. The phrase “Connections at CIC, Leading to Future Business” encapsulates the essence of the campaign as it highlights the collaborative achievements of various startups.

The focal point of this advertising campaign is the large screen “One Vision,” located just outside the East Exit of Tenjin Station, which will be broadcasting content from January 9 to February 1. The campaign strategically employs a blend of outdoor advertising, public transportation promotions, and digital platforms such as YouTube and social media. Nineteen resident startups will feature prominently, sharing their growth journeys and experiences at CIC Fukuoka. Real testimonials from these entrepreneurs are set to shed light on collaborations and transformations that emerged from their connections made at CIC.

Since its inception on April 24, 2025, CIC Fukuoka has showcased consistent growth, reaching over 100 resident companies and 200 total members by December 2025. The hub has also attracted participation from diverse communities including startups, large corporations, investors, research institutions, and government agencies, making it a dynamic innovation center in the Fukuoka and Kyushu region, with a cumulative attendance of 7,700 people at its weekly “Thursday Gatherings” organized by Venture Café Fukuoka.

Among the 19 companies featured in the campaign, eight will share stories about their collaborative ventures born out of interactions at CIC. The remaining companies will discuss the changing environment and impacts on their businesses stemming from their time at this innovative space. This approach aims to visualize how the vibrant atmosphere and daily interactions at CIC influence each participant’s unique challenges and pursuits.

Starting January 19, promotional videos will be displayed on the One Vision screen, alongside a series of outdoor advertisements within Fukuoka prefecture, as well as online and social media advertising efforts. The campaign intends to immerse viewers in the real stories and environment of CIC Fukuoka, situated prominently within the daily routines of Tenjin, Fukuoka.

CIC Fukuoka remains committed to being a catalyst for innovation, continuing to foster an environment where “Encounters Bring New Challenges.” The aim is to support budding innovations from Kyushu to the rest of Japan and the world.

Participating Companies in the Innovation Story Campaign (in alphabetical order)

• - aiESG Co., Ltd.
• - Ekohe Japan Eletus, Inc.
• - OGAMI CONSULTING GROUP WORLDWIDE LLC / DSCWW
• - Graphics Co., Ltd.
• - ZeroOne Co., Ltd.
• - Social Idea Law Office
• - Divers Project
• - NEO Fukuoka
• - Next Infrastructure Co., Ltd.
• - Nulab, Inc.
• - Nunai
• - Pawzmed
• - BLOOMIN' KIDS Co., Ltd.
• - Fukuoka Now
• - CX Value Lab, Inc.
• - COCKPITOS Inc.
• - Ignis Partners Group
• - Nishitetsu Co., Ltd.

Comment from Kunihiko Shimizu, General Manager of CIC Fukuoka:

“From the outset of CIC Fukuoka, our priority has been to create a space where every individual can challenge themselves in a natural way. We have witnessed numerous unexpected collaborations and business initiatives stemming from conversations that transcend job titles and industries. CIC is not a place that provides perfected answers; instead, it serves as a backdrop for individuals to connect, pose questions, and take the next step forward. I hope that both new residents and first-time event visitors will experience this unique atmosphere. We look forward to seeing each person's stories unfold from here.”

For more information, visit the CIC Fukuoka campaign site: CIC Fukuoka Special Site

About CIC Fukuoka

CIC Fukuoka is an innovation center established in 2025 as the second location in Japan following CIC Tokyo. Located in Fukuoka, recognized as the most global city closest to Asia, the center aligns with CIC's strategic vision of creating a robust network in Asia. The city of Fukuoka prides itself on being dubbed the “Leader City of Asia,” presenting geographical advantages and a booming population. Since the city's declaration of being a “Startup City” in 2012, a collaborative effort involving governmental, industrial, and academic sectors has paved the way for nurturing startups. CIC Fukuoka works in synergy with this vibrant city, supporting startups, investors, universities, and government bodies to foster a hub that encourages co-creation and growth in the regional innovation ecosystem.