A new year brings a fresh opportunity to refine, reset, and accelerate your digital strategy and growth. Whether you are scaling a startup or optimising existing systems, now is the time to set the pace for 2026.
✨ In this Edition you will find:
Last 12 hrs to apply booth / ¥10M Prize : Sushitech 2026
Tokyo Tech Retreat + 80% off general pass Sushitech, networking, Vc intros
Welcome New Manabu Hubs Experts!
#42 Edition Newsletter: The 2026 Outlook, Why Japan-Taiwan is your ultimate startup hack
Upcoming events
🏆 Last day: The SusHi Tech Challenge (Pitch Contest)
Today is the last day to apply for a Booth Exhibition or Pitch Contest offers a ¥10m grand prize. We can nominate your startups and get higher chance! Don't miss it!
How to enter
Pitch Contest → Startups are invited to participate in the pitch contest "SusHi Tech Challenge 2026" ( until January 13th) |
Exhibitor → Call for Startup Booth Exhibitors at SusHi Tech Tokyo 2026 ( until January 13th) |
Join the Manabu Hubs exclusive delegation to SusHi Tech Tokyo 2026 (as part of our cohort3).
This is a curated experience for global founders, seniors devs, partners, and startups to connect with the Japanese ecosystem, attend exclusive side events, and network with investors and partners from Taiwan, Our Global European Partners and ASEAN.
Total Delegation Fee: $550 USD p/startup or individual founder/senior expert. Manabu Hubs Subscription Get 20% OFF Program
"For $550, you get a package worth over $1,500:"
Exclusive Founder /Connect Dinner ($150 value)
Global Startup Spotlight & PR ($500 value)
Curated intro to Investors/Partners/Connections (Priceless)
Admin support for side-event registration ($200 value)
80% Off tickets for entire days Sushitech, side events, online networking access and more (¥16,000 value)
Expanding Our Global Ecosystem: Welcoming Our Newest Experts
From Cybersecurity to AI Strategy, we are thrilled to welcome our newest partners and members to our global hubs. Each of these experts brings over 10 years of industry-leading experience, further cementing our ecosystem as a premier global destination for tech innovation.
Want to collaborate with our experts? Join our private hub to unlock exclusive networking opportunities and professional support.
Exclusive Offer: Secure an annual subscription today to access our premium perks, global incubator program, and exclusive startup events.
Offer: 20% OFF (Valid until Jan 30, 2026)
Code:
Manabuhub25
Image generated by Gemini AI
Are you still trying to crack the Japan market solo? In 2026, the "wait and see" approach is dead. The real opportunity lies in the Japan-Taiwan Corridor.
In Manabu Hubs Newsletter #42, we break down:
- Why Taiwan has passed neighbour's in GDP but struggles with "Unicorns."
- How to use the "Dual-Engine" strategy for growth.
- The latest on Japan’s Business & Digital Nomad Visas for 2026.
Don't miss our first deep dive of the year.
Subscribe & Read here:
📍 Recommended Events
New Section: Curated by Manabu Hubs
We’ve introduced this section to highlight events that provide genuine value. Our recommendations are based on our team’s previous participation, the quality of professional networking, and the overall impact on the startup ecosystem.
1. Thursday Gathering #53: Plug and Play × Fukuoka Global Big Market
Join our founder, Pablo Riveros, along with several of our hub members for a night of cross-city collaboration. This is a prime opportunity to connect with the local and global tech scenes in Fukuoka.
When: Thursday, Jan 15th @ 17:30
Why: High-impact networking and regional ecosystem growth.
2. Founder Connects & Beers
Unwind after a busy day with our exclusive network. This is a casual environment designed for founders, tech nomads, and global partners to share insights and build authentic relationships.
When: Wednesday, Jan 21st @ 19:00
Where: @awabar
Why: Direct access to a community of like-minded innovators.
3. Remote Work & City Escape
Step out of your home office and work alongside creative entrepreneurs in an inspiring seaside atmosphere. Whether you are a tech nomad or a local founder, this is the perfect spot for deep work and fresh ideas.
When: Thursday, Jan 29th @10:00
Where: @Salt
Perks: Your first pass is Free (first come, first served!). Subsequent visits include a 10% discount on daily passes.