Fukuoka Startups Take on Europe: 2025 Europe Mission Launches

Fukuoka City has announced the launch of the 2025 Europe Mission, an ambitious initiative to connect the city’s most innovative startups with partners, investors, and markets across Europe.

The mission, organized under Fukuoka’s global startup strategy and operated by Global Business Support (GBS), will see a carefully selected cohort of local startups travel to key European hubs in 2025. Their goal: to accelerate overseas expansion, secure strategic partnerships, and showcase the dynamism of Fukuoka’s growing innovation ecosystem on the international stage.

The first steps on this journey will be Malmö, Sweden. One of the most innovative and start-up rich ecosystems in Sweden. The second visit will be to SLUSH in Helsinki, Finland. Where the Fukuoka based start-ups will have a chance to attract attention on the largest start-up scene in the world.
At both locations the participating companies will conduct partner assisted matchmaking and market entry research.

Selected Startups for the Europe Mission

AUTHENTIC JAPAN Co.Ltd.

・　Focus: GPS beacon–powered search and rescue support services for mountains, seas, and urban environments.

・　Mission Goal: Seeking like-minded partners who share a commitment to safety and are ready to co-develop solutions for outdoor, maritime, and urban safety challenges.

・　Message from AUTHENTIC JAPAN Co.Ltd..: My name is Yoshida from AUTHENTIC JAPAN Co.Ltd.. Our search-and-rescue service “COCOHELI” was developed and refined through years of experience in Japan’s challenging mountain and marine environments. Building on this strong foundation and proven track record, we hope to create new opportunities and make a positive contribution to Europe together with local partners.

KAICO Ltd.

・　Focus: Oral vaccine development using silkworm-derived proteins, leveraging Kyushu University technology.

・　Mission Goal: Connecting with feed and animal health manufacturers, distributors, and joint research partners in Europe, particularly in the swine industry.

・　Message from KAICO Ltd..: My name is Yamato from KAICO Ltd. We have recently launched a feed additive for pigs in Vietnam, and through this mission, we aim to find business partners who can work with us to expand this business across Europe!

Coastal Link Corp.

・　Focus: Maritime communication DX platform, integrating ship-to-port communications to enhance efficiency and safety.

・　Mission Goal: Exploring demand in Europe while engaging VCs, shipping operators, SaaS providers, and maritime academia.

・　Message from Coastal Link Corp..: My name is Takimoto from Coastal Link Corp. At SLUSH 2025, we aim to connect with partners who share our vision of a future where the sea and land are seamlessly connected through our next-generation maritime communication platform, “Coastal Link.” Together, we will strive to achieve a Smart Ocean as soon as possible.

Hitokoko Corp.

・　Focus: Global matching service for Japanese culinary talent to overseas restaurants.

・　Mission Goal: Building partnerships with Japanese restaurant operators and licensed staffing agencies abroad.

・　Message from Hitokoko Corp.: My name is Yamano from Hitokoko Corp. Our company operates “Japares Recruit,” a service that connects Japanese culinary experts with restaurants and opportunities abroad. By spreading authentic Japanese food around the world, we aim to contribute to the growth of Japan’s domestic food and traditional crafts industries as well.

・　Message from Hitokoko Corp.: So far, we have focused mainly on Southeast Asia and the United States, but as demand in Europe continues to increase, we are determined to expand our efforts in this region. At this event, I intend to engage proactively with local participants, learn as much as possible, and return home with insights and opportunities that will make people say, “I’m glad we chose Hitokoko.”

Coatolie Inc.

・　Focus: Fashion sustainability through remaking and repairing garments, rooted in Japan’s “O-naoshi” culture.

・　Mission Goal: Partnering with European hotels, apparel retailers, and sustainable product distributors, while gathering market insights from Scandinavian design and fashion events.

・　Message from Coatolie Inc.: We are Oyama and Taira from Coatolie Inc. Through this European Mission, we hope to build meaningful connections that will serve as a foundation for our expansion into Europe. At the same time, we aim to deepen our knowledge about how our upcycled kimono products can take root within Europe’s strong culture of sustainability.

Why Europe?

Europe represents a critical frontier for Fukuoka startups: advanced regulatory environments, robust consumer markets, and a strong orientation toward sustainability and digital transformation. The 2025 Europe Mission will provide startups with tailored introductions, on-the-ground exposure, and opportunities to participate in industry-leading events, ensuring that Fukuoka’s entrepreneurial talent is firmly embedded in Europe’s innovation networks.
Furthermore, countries like Sweden and Finland that have well developed start-up ecosystems and soft-landing programs provide excellent starting points for Japanese startups interested in this new frontier.

About the Program

The Europe Mission is part of Fukuoka’s broader efforts to position itself as Asia’s gateway to global innovation. By supporting local startups with overseas expansion and cross-border partnerships, the city reinforces its role as a vibrant hub for entrepreneurs, investors, and ecosystem builders.

Global Business Support, operator of the mission, will provide program management, matchmaking support, and coordination with local governments, investors, and industry leaders in Europe.

There is no I in Fukuoka but there is a U!

Feel free to drop by anytime or shoot us a message. We look forward to hearing from you and supporting you on this exciting and wonderful journey.

Global Business Support

Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 10:00-17:00 (Days closed : Sundays and Holidays)

Location:

Fukuoka Growth Next (FGN)

Fukuoka Growth Next 1F, 2 Chome-6-11 Daimyo, Chuo Ward, Fukuoka 810-0041

As there is no on-site parking or bicycle parking available, we kindly ask that you utilize nearby parking facilities or bicycle parking areas.

Cambridge Innovation Center（CIC）

ONE FUKUOKA BLDG. 7F, 1-11-1 Tenjin, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka 810-0001

Please use the contact form on our website to make an inquiry.