Diary of a Founder
Overview
Founders at Work
An evening of candid conversations and practical insights with founders. See what they’re building and why it matters.
Keynote
Kenji Niwa, Founder & CEO, Firstcard
Kenji will unpack lessons from building and exiting iTank (acquired by En Japan in 2015), investing in 30+ startups (including Substack), and returning to operate Firstcard (founded 2020) to expand access to credit. The company’s mission is rooted in his own experience - all while earning his MBA at UC Berkeley Haas.
Lightning Pitches
Rapid pitches from AlchemistX founders across manufacturing, AI, and sustainability—followed by open networking with founders, investors, and operators.
Who Should Attend
Builders, investors, and leaders focused on durable technology and the infrastructure behind it.
Agenda
- 5:00–5:30 PM — Arrival & networking
- 5:30–5:40 PM — Welcome & keynote introduction
- 5:40–6:30 PM — Fireside chat with Kenji Niwa + Q&A
- 6:30–6:45 PM — Founder lightning pitches (10)
- 6:45–7:30 PM — Networking reception
Partners
AlchemistX — External innovation arm of Alchemist Accelerator, partnering with industry and government to help top founders go to market.
JETRO — Supports startup growth through programs such as GSAP, connecting innovators with customers and partners.
Registration & Media Notice
By registering, you consent to share your contact information with JETRO and JIC for administrative and communication purposes, in line with their privacy policies. JETRO, JIC, and affiliated organizations may photograph and record the event for promotional use (e.g., websites, social media). If you have questions, prefer not to be photographed or recorded, or wish to discuss data use, notify event staff upon arrival and contact startup2@jetro.go.jp.
Good to know
Highlights
- 2 hours 30 minutes
- In person
Location
Financial District
330 Pine Street
San Francisco, CA 94104
How do you want to get there?
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