The GX-DX-AI Summit, held on November 1 at the Deloitte Tohmatsu Innovation Park, brought together over 200 leaders from various sectors to explore how Green Transformation (GX), Digital Transformation (DX) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) are shaping Japan’s technological and sustainable future. Designed to foster collaboration and innovation, the event featured a dynamic lineup of keynote panels, roundtable discussions and closed-door sessions that delved into the pressing issues of the day. Participants engaged in forward-thinking conversations on topics ranging from Japan’s CN2050 sustainability goals to strategic leadership in AI, all aimed at positioning the country as a global leader in both technology and sustainability.
The summit’s agenda included high-level discussions on leveraging technology for sustainable development, the role of AI in corporate digital transformation and cultivating a thriving startup ecosystem for GX/DX/AI. A highlight of the day was the keynote panel, where industry experts shared their visionary insights into Japan’s future in these transformative fields. Participants also had the opportunity to engage in interactive roundtable sessions, which provided a platform for meaningful dialogue and idea exchange on the complex intersections of technology, policy and business.
The Summit enabled candid discussions on the meaning of success and failure in the workplace – and how it is through failures that the opportunity to learn and adapt arises. Attendees were encouraged to consider embracing failure as just another step in the journey of growth and innovation, and cultivate a workplace culture that supports diverse perspectives.
“In Japan, the term for failure, 失敗 (shippai), carries a heavy weight, implying a double loss (失くす and 敗れる). This cultural perception often leads to a deep-seated fear of failure, programming us to avoid it at all costs,” reflected Host Committee Chair Aya Kameda. “However, I’ve come to understand that to innovate and transform our approach to business, we must shift our mindset. I am committing to reframing the narrative around failure. Instead of calling it shippai, I choose to view it as a pivot.”
As climate change continues to be a pressing global issue, panelists discussed Japan’s potential to drive meaningful change both internationally and domestically. Moderator Kyoko Altman expressed confidence in Japan’s ability to take a leadership role in combating global warming, highlighting the country’s highly educated policymakers, world-class academics and innovative entrepreneurs. “However,” she cautioned, “to unlock its potential, the country must first address its internal challenges and better align with the IPCC’s pathway toward achieving the global 1.5-degree goal.”
As the day concluded, the summit provided ample networking opportunities, allowing attendees to connect with key innovators and decision-makers who are shaping the future of Japan.
Following the summit, a celebratory Tradition & Innovation Soiree allowed guests to enjoy a memorable night blending Japan’s cultural heritage with modern innovation. Featuring a musical performance by the renowned Kodo taiko group from Sado Island, and sustainably sourced sushi and sake, guests had the chance to network in a vibrant and inspiring setting. Proceeds from the event were donated to the U.S.-Japan Council (Japan), supporting its mission to strengthen U.S.-Japan relations. The event underscored the importance of collaboration in driving Japan’s technological and sustainable future, leaving all who attended inspired and energized for the challenges ahead.
The Council extends a heartfelt thanks to Aya Kameda and the Host Committee for their incredible work in making this Summit and Soiree a resounding success.