What are the Global Startup EXPO 2026 side events?
GSE side events are “official content” designed to build excitement throughout the community in anticipation of Global Startup EXPO 2026 (“GSE”). In principle, anyone can plan and host an event as an organizer during, as well as before or after, the GSE period.
We welcome not only events that focus on the main theme of “deep tech startups” but also any other opportunities that might contribute to the growth and development of startups.
You are the ones who will shape the future of our ecosystem. Let’s bring your ideas together and make GSE 2026 a huge success!
*Please note that detailed information on approved side events will be published separately on related websites currently under development (including the official GSE side event feature page). We do not guarantee that detailed information will be posted on the official GSE website.
Roadmap to event hosting
・We will inform you of the screening result within 10 business days of your application.
・Please note in advance that we do not disclose the reasons for acceptance or rejection.
・Please read the following notes carefully and apply through the application form only after agreeing to them.
Screening points
01.The side event’s conformity to the purposes and objectives
・Does the event content directly or indirectly contribute to the growth of startups, the solution of their challenges, or the development of the ecosystem for startups?
02.Expected effects and contributions to GSE
・Is it clear what participants will gain from the event?
・Is the content supportive of promoting GSE and increasing community awareness?
03.Feasibility of holding the event
・Are there clear plans for attracting participants, securing a venue, and operating the event?
・Can the track record and credibility as an event organizer or group be verified?
04.Adequacy and availability of the information to be posted
・Is all the necessary information for release (e.g. overview, date and time, venue, banner) available?
・If any information is missing, is there a prospect of providing it as soon as the relevant decision is made?
Events whose sole purpose is dining and socializing will not be eligible for screening.
However, socializing events after session programs or networking events aimed at business matching are welcome to apply.
Event reporting
After your event is approved as an official side event, we will send you a media kit and a dedicated form for submitting an event report. Please be sure to submit an event report within one week of holding the event.
■ Information to be reported
〇 Number of participants
〇 Event results
〇 Event summary and insights
〇 Main feedback from participants
〇 Photos from the event
〇 Other
*Please note that if we cannot confirm the event report, we may revoke the approval as an official side event (e.g. remove the event from the archives, etc.).
Points to note
Terms and Conditions of Use and Code of Conduct
Detailed rules have been established regarding prohibitions, operation responsibilities, and how violations will be handled. Please read them carefully and only apply if you agree to them.
Application/information management
・Do not include false statements in your application or event report. If there are any changes to the content, please contact the secretariat immediately.
・Always keep updated the information posted on the GSE official website (title, summary, banner, etc.), even after the certification of the event.
Operation and safety management
・The organizers are responsible for following the venue’s rules and instructions and for handling any necessary applications or notifications to relevant government agencies.
・Endeavor to maintain order within the venue and ensure the safety of visitors.
・In the event of any trouble or accident, report it immediately to the venue and the GSE secretariat and follow their instructions.
Contact with the secretariat
・Respond promptly to any communications from the GSE Executive
・Committee. If no response is confirmed, the certification may be revoked.
Terms and Conditions of Use and Code of Conduct
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q.Do side event organizers need to arrange their own venues?
A.In principle, they need to arrange their own venues. However, we can provide information on venues near the GSE site, although these options require a fee and their availability is limited. Please contact the secretariat if you need assistance.
Q.Does the failure of the screening as an official side event mean the prohibition of holding the event itself?
A.Although official certification will not be granted, this does not prevent the applicant from hosting the event. However, in this case, it is prohibited to publicly declare it as an official side event.
Q.What if the event could not be delivered as planned (e.g., speaker absence)?
A.The events with official certification must be delivered exactly as stated in the approved application. If the event is not delivered as planned, its status as an official side event may be revoked at a later date. In particularly egregious cases, the violation details may be disclosed to warn other startup conferences.