IssueHunt Inc. (Headquarters: Chuo-ku, Tokyo; CEO: Kazumasa Yokomizo), a provider of bug bounty platforms and security services, announced on February 6 that the venue for the upcoming student-focused cybersecurity conference "P3NFEST," scheduled for March 7, 2026, has been set at "Abema Towers" through the cooperation of CyberAgent, Inc. (Headquarters: Shibuya-ku, Tokyo).
"P3NFEST" is an event aimed at addressing Japan's shortage of security professionals by providing students with opportunities for career development. For this fourth edition, CyberAgent has joined as a venue sponsor, offering its Shibuya office hub as the central location for the event.
The event will feature lectures and hands-on workshops led by engineers working at the forefront of the industry. To ensure more students—including those from regional areas—can access hands-on learning, the organizer, IssueHunt, will implement a support program providing a fixed travel allowance for students attending in person.
While the event is primarily for students, a limited number of general admission slots will also be available, making it a potential networking hub for a wide range of individuals interested in cybersecurity.
Leading up to the conference, a bug bounty event titled "P3NFEST Bug Bounty 2026 Spring," limited to participants aged 25 and under, will be held online from February 16 to March 31, 2026.
IssueHunt stated that through the dual approach of conference-based learning and bug bounty practice, it aims to contribute to the development of young talent and the revitalization of the community, securing the future of cybersecurity in Japan.
■ ICT Startup League
This support program was launched in FY2023, originating from the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications' "Support Project for Seed-stage R&D for Startup Creation."
The ICT Startup League supports startups through four main pillars:
1. R&D Funding / Mentorship
Up to 20 million yen in R&D funding is provided in the form of grants. In terms of mentorship, the Selection and Evaluation Committee members who chose the league members continue to support them after the selection process to accelerate growth. For companies highly rated by committee members, a "fandom-style" support system is established where evaluators personally provide ongoing advice on business plans and growth opportunities.
2. Discovery & Development
The league provides opportunities for learning and networking to promote the business growth of league members. It also seeks to discover individuals aiming to start businesses in the future, expanding the startup ecosystem.
3. Competition & Co-creation
Structured like a sports league, it serves as a platform for positive competition. Startups learn and grow together while competing for the necessary funding (up to 20 million yen). It also provides a space for "co-creation," where league members can collaborate and expand their businesses through sessions with evaluation committee members and other networking opportunities.
4. Promotion
The initiatives of league members are promoted in collaboration with the media. By making these businesses known to a wider audience, the program aims to expand opportunities for new matching and business prospects.
■ Related Websites
ICT Startup League
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IssueHunt Inc. (Official Site)
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IssueHunt Inc. (LEAGUE MEMBER)
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P3NFEST 2026 Spring (Official Site)
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Original Press Release (Japanese)
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For more details on STARTUP LEAGUE's startup support, please see here.
