SWISH! Startup Camp 2026 to Unite 32 VCs and Entrepreneurs in Karuizawa

Conference Overview

ON&BOARD Inc. has officially announced that 32 of Japan's leading venture capital (VC) and corporate venture capital (CVC) firms will participate as partners in the upcoming "SWISH! Startup Camp 2026," set to take place in Karuizawa, Nagano Prefecture, from Saturday, September 26, to Sunday, September 27, 2026.

Purpose and Unique Characteristics

This two-day conference is designed to foster deep connections between entrepreneurs, investors, corporations, and local government officials within the serene natural setting of Karuizawa. By transcending traditional professional barriers, the event focuses on building trust through dialogue and shared experiences. A key feature of the camp is the pre-event information sharing and networking platform, which allows entrepreneurs to connect with investors beforehand, maximizing the efficiency of time spent on fundraising and business co-creation opportunities.

Program Highlights

Participants will engage in a variety of activities including dialogue sessions centered on high-growth sectors such as AI, geopolitics and national security, deep tech, and GX (Green Transformation), alongside outdoor activities like BBQ sessions, campfires, and active learning workshops. The goal is to move beyond superficial pitch meetings to uncover the core values and origins of both founders and investors, thereby establishing long-term, supportive partnerships. Additionally, the event will feature "SWISH! Mountain: Founders' Climb 2026," a dedicated pitch event held on the second day.

Participating Partners

The 32 participating firms announced include industry leaders such as Coral Capital, Globis Capital Partners, Genesia Ventures, Mitsubishi UFJ Capital, and Nissay Capital. ON&BOARD Inc. plans to announce further participating partners in the coming months.