TechCrunch is heading to Tokyo — and bringing the Startup Battlefield with it

TechCrunch, the prominent technology media company, is expanding its global footprint by bringing its flagship Startup Battlefield competition to Tokyo, Japan, in 2026 as part of the SusHi Tech event. This strategic move aims to spotlight and accelerate innovation in the Asia-Pacific region, connecting it with TechCrunch's international network of investors and entrepreneurs. The announcement positions Tokyo as a critical hub for the next wave of technological advancement. The SusHi Tech 2026 event will specifically concentrate on four pivotal technology domains identified as major societal transformers: Artificial Intelligence (AI), Robotics, Resilience (encompassing areas like cyber defense and climate technology), and Entertainment. The programming is designed to be highly experiential, featuring live demonstrations of advanced humanoid robots and in-depth sessions on revolutions in fields like autonomous driving software. This focus reflects a curated view of technologies poised for both commercial breakthrough and significant cultural impact. A key thematic thread will explore how AI is fundamentally altering creative industries on a global scale, with planned candid conversations about its effects on music and anime production. The inclusion of 'Resilience' as a core pillar indicates a growing emphasis on technologies that address systemic challenges, from cybersecurity threats to climate change mitigation. By anchoring its Startup Battlefield in this environment, TechCrunch aims to unearth and showcase early-stage companies that are building the future across these interconnected fields, fostering a new pipeline of innovation between Japan and Silicon Valley.