This virtual event creates an intimate setting where startups and investors connect in fast-paced 15-minute 1:1 sessions—5 minutes for the pitch followed by 10 minutes of Q&A. Moderators give a 5-minute warning before each switch to keep things on track.

Startup founders looking to scale their business through investment opportunities.

No! gener8tor's many partners provide sponsorships to make events like this possible for startups, in order to create thriving startup ecosystems while investing in communities' best and brightest!

All official communications, including the application form, investor introductions, and event correspondence, are conducted in English, as it is the working language of the Lightning Rounds.

During the event, you will have the opportunity to pitch to a mix of Japanese and international investors. If you are matched with a Japanese-speaking investor, you are welcome to conduct that conversation in Japanese. However, we strongly recommend preparing your pitch in English to maximize your reach and ensure you're ready for any investor meeting.

Attend the workshop being offered and have a 5-minute English-language pitch (and deck) ready to present. Once you're selected, you'll receive a link with your schedule and the name of the investor and firm you'll be meeting—look them up on LinkedIn so you can come prepared with focused questions. Practice a concise elevator pitch about your business, have your digital materials ready to share, and prepare specific questions that can quickly surface synergies.

Start with a brief introduction of who you are and what you do, quickly share your value proposition, ask relevant questions to understand the other person's needs and interests, and identify next steps.

Review your notes, send a personalized follow-up email to each person you met, reiterate key points from your conversation, and propose a plan for further discussion if applicable.

Ideally, follow up within 24-48 hours while the meeting is still fresh in both parties' minds. Timely follow-up demonstrates professionalism and interest.

Be punctual, stick to the time limits to respect all participants, listen actively, avoid dominating the conversation, and be clear and concise in your communication.

Focus on questions that quickly reveal potential synergies such as "What is your business expertise in?", "What types of business opportunities can I take advantage of as a small business?", or “Do you know of any other relevant TA providers or even customers that I should connect with?”

If you have a quick financial or legal question, hopefully the benefit is obvious answers. Other benefits are efficiently meeting multiple potential contacts in a short amount of time, quick assessment of opportunities, practice and refine your networking and pitching skills, and broaden your professional network.

The short meeting times can feel rushed, it might be difficult to make meaningful connections with everyone, and it requires strong preparation and quick thinking.

Typically, business casual or even business professional attire is recommended. Feel free to represent your company with your company swag you might already have!