#Japan #Tokyo #bestat #hootfolio #Kort Valuta

The Thrills of Working in Startups: An Insightful Meetup

In the dynamic world of technology, the allure of working at a startup garners increasing attention, particularly among engineers seeking to innovate and make a significant impact. On March 27, 2026, a meetup organized by Kort Valuta in collaboration with bestat, hootfolio, and Fairy Devices will take place at Google for Startups Campus Tokyo. This event promises a unique exploration of the excitement involved in developing AI-driven products within a startup's cultural framework.

Event Outline

The event, titled "What Makes Working at a Startup Exciting? AI Utilization for Developers Meetup," will feature prominent figures from various AI startups discussing their experiences. The evening will include short pitches from each participating company, allowing attendees to glimpse the unique projects and strategies that set these startups apart.

This meetup isn’t just a networking opportunity; it offers a chance for seasoned engineers from large corporations to share their transition into the fast-paced startup environment. They will discuss how startup culture allows them to engage with innovative ideas beyond just product development, focusing also on creating value and shaping the development processes.

Participating Companies

bestat

Founded from the prestigious Matsuo Lab at the University of Tokyo, bestat specializes in supporting the acquisition, generation, processing, and utilization of 3D data through AI technologies. Their focus is on creating innovative solutions to bridge the gap between the real and digital worlds.

hootfolio

Originating from NEC's research laboratory, hootfolio is making waves with its causal AI solutions. Its co-founder, Kenta Kasahara, transitioned from being a full-stack engineer to leading product development after encountering causal AI in Silicon Valley, with the goal of implementing scientific decision-making in various sectors.

Fairy Devices

Fairy Devices is pioneering the integration of audio AI technology through its wearable device THINKLET, which aims to revolutionize digital transformation in Japan's industrial environments. They leverage advancements in audio recognition to enhance workplace efficiency and worker experiences.

Kort Valuta

As a FinTech startup, Kort Valuta develops the next-generation wallet service, TwooCa. This platform utilizes AI to offer modern financial solutions like prepaid cards integrated with employee and membership identification. It aims to create a sustainable ecosystem where the value of employees is prioritized, thus enhancing overall organizational performance.

Event Details

• - Date: March 27, 2026
• - Time: 6:50 PM to 8:10 PM (doors open at 6:30 PM)
• - Networking Session: 8:10 PM to 8:40 PM (includes light food and craft beer)
• - Venue: Google for Startups Campus Tokyo, Shibuya
• - Participation Fee: Free

Additional Features

Attendees can look forward to:
1. Short Pitches: Presentations from each company outlining their projects and innovations.
2. Crosstalk Session: An interactive discussion highlighting real experiences of decision-making and product development in the startup atmosphere.
3. Networking Opportunities: A chance to connect with fellow engineers and share insights within the community.

Meet the Speakers

The event will feature several key speakers:

• - Daichi Miura, Development Lead at bestat, who has transitioned from LINE Corporation to pioneering AI-integrated 3D solutions.
• - Kenta Kasahara, Co-Founder, and CEO of hootfolio, whose expertise in Causal AI makes him a trailblazer in scientific decision-making.
• - Toshiyuki Takeda, CTO of hootfolio, known for his extensive background in cloud technology and product development in high-uncertainty environments.
• - Tetsushi Yoshikawa, Head of Product Development at Fairy Devices, leading innovations that blend AI with industrial applications.
• - Hitoshi Tanaka, COO of Kort Valuta, an AI entrepreneur dedicated to nurturing a supportive ecosystem for startups.

Join us for an engaging evening where the excitement of working at AI startups will be showcased. Register now before seats fill up!

Kort Valuta's Vision with TwooCa

TwooCa is not just a fintech solution; it represents a commitment to creating sustainable growth by valuing employees and fostering a collaborative atmosphere. As they create innovative tools for payment and management, Kort Valuta embodies the principle that caring for individuals leads to broader organizational success. Their vision resonates with the belief that technology can manifest empathy and improve lives in meaningful ways.

As we look ahead, the collaboration of tech leaders in shaping the future of startups is vital. This meetup is just a glimpse into the potential developments driven by talented engineers eager for a challenge.