Japan's Major University Fair 2026: Innovations Shaping the Future

The University Fair 2026, themed "Seeds for Tomorrow’s Startups," will take place at Tokyo Big Sight from August 27 to 28, 2026. Organized by the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST), this event is recognized as Japan's largest industry-academia matching event, catering to university-originated startups and researchers aspiring to launch their enterprises.

The INPIT (Independent Administrative Institution Industrial Property Digital Library) will have an engaging presence at the event. On the first day, INPIT will showcase its booth, marked as J-22, where experts will provide free support to universities, startups, and SMEs, addressing challenges related to commercialization of research seeds, intellectual property strategy development, licensing agreements, and assistance with overseas applications.

Among the key highlights of the INPIT’s participation is a special seminar featuring Director Haru Watanabe. After a successful session last year, which drew a large crowd, he will lead a discussion on the effective use of AI in patent search and analysis. This seminar, aimed at both specialists and non-specialists, will delve into the implementation of AI technologies in research strategy planning, execution, and the enhancement of university-industry collaboration.

The seminar, titled "How to Utilize AI in Patent Search and Analysis?" will be held on August 28, from 14:45 to 15:30. Joining Director Watanabe will be Atsushi Nozaki, President of e-Patent Co., Ltd., and a noted intellectual property consultant.

This is a unique opportunity for participants to gain insights from these seasoned professionals as they explore practical approaches and the transformative potential of generative AI in enhancing patent research.

Event Details

- Title: University Fair 2026 – Innovations for Tomorrow’s Startups
- Date: August 27–28, 2026, From 10 AM to 5 PM
- Organized by: Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST)
- Co-hosted by: Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
- Supported by: Various organizations including the Japan Association of Corporate Executives, INPIT, Japan International Cooperation Agency, and others.
- Venue: Tokyo Big Sight, 3 Chome-11-1 Ariake, Koto City, Tokyo
- Admission Fee: Free (Registration required via official website)

For more information and to register for your visit, please visit the official website.

Don’t miss the chance to connect, learn, and innovate at this pivotal event, which promises to be a melting pot of ideas, technologies, and future-oriented discussions.