TechCrunch is heading to Tokyo — and bringing the Startup Battlefield with it

2026-04-10 · Source: AI News & Artificial Intelligence | TechCrunch · Field: Technology & Digital — Emerging Technologies & Innovation, Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Robotics & Autonomous Systems · Depth: Fundamental Awareness, quick

Summary

TechCrunch is partnering with SusHi Tech Tokyo 2026, Asia's largest global innovation conference, scheduled for April 27–29 at Tokyo Big Sight. The event, now in its fourth year, expects 60,000 attendees, 750 startup exhibitors from 60 countries, and over 10,000 business meetings. Its mission is to unite innovators to build sustainable future cities, focusing on AI, Robotics, Resilience, and Entertainment. TechCrunch's Startup Battlefield program manager, Isabelle Johannessen, will judge the SusHi Tech Challenge, a pitch competition with 820 applications. The Grand Prix winner receives ¥10,000,000 and automatic entry into the TechCrunch Disrupt Startup Battlefield Top 200. The conference also includes a G-NETS Leaders Summit for city leaders and features 62 corporate partners like Sony, Google, Microsoft, and Mizuho hosting reverse pitches.

Key takeaway

For entrepreneurs seeking global exposure and funding, attending SusHi Tech Tokyo 2026 offers a direct pathway to investors and corporate partners. Your startup could gain significant visibility through the SusHi Tech Challenge, potentially securing a spot in the TechCrunch Disrupt Startup Battlefield Top 200. Leverage the event's AI-powered app to pre-book meetings and maximize your networking opportunities with key industry players and city leaders.

Key insights

SusHi Tech Tokyo 2026 is Asia's largest innovation conference focused on sustainable urban development and startup collaboration.

Principles

• Global collaboration drives urban sustainability.
• Pitch competitions accelerate startup visibility.

Method

The SusHi Tech Challenge selects a Grand Prix winner from 820 applicants across 60 countries, awarding ¥10,000,000 and TechCrunch Disrupt entry.

In practice

• Utilize the official app for AI-powered networking.
• Attend corporate reverse pitches for collaboration.

Topics

• SusHi Tech Tokyo 2026
• Startup Battlefield
• Global Innovation Conference
• Sustainable Cities
• AI and Robotics

Best for: Entrepreneur, Investor, Consultant

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by AI News & Artificial Intelligence | TechCrunch.