The annual Tokyo Global Summit brings together members of the global BuiltWorlds network to explore the broad spectrum of trends, challenges and opportunities currently defining the AEC/O industry, both in Asia and around the world. Industry leaders, innovators, investors, and entrepreneurs join in on a global exchange of ideas and information, with a particular emphasis on the region's expertise in robotics, manufacturing, and innovating infrastructure.
Before we reconvene for this year's Tokyo Global Summit, happening October 13-15, 2026, catch up on a selection of recordings from last year's event—including the winning Demo Day pitch, industry presentations, and panel discussions—in one convenient place.
Be in the room where it all happens this October! Join us in Tokyo for three days of member-only programming designed to encourage collaboration and innovation across the industry.
2025 Recordings
Demo Day Winner
Azure Printed Homes
Azure Printed Homes Co-Founder and President Gene Eidelman impressed the judges at the 2025 Tokyo Global Summit, taking home the top prize at the Demo Day competition. A leader in 3D-printed small houses and backyard studios, Azure offers a patented process that aims to build affordably and sustainably. Armed with a team of robots, Azure is able to rapidly and reliably print the structural shell of each home with perfect precision.
Speaker: Gene Eidelman, co-founder and president, Azure Printed Homes
pANEL discussion
AI and the Transformation of Project Planning
Member-only Content
Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping the way AEC/O professionals plan, design, and deliver projects. In this session, global leaders shared cutting-edge applications of AI in the planning and design process, from generative design and predictive modeling to integrated project workflows and more. Panelists explored how these innovations are streamlining decision-making, reducing risk, and unlocking new creative possibilities across global projects.
Speakers: Eliot Jones (Trimble), Atul Khanzode (DPR Construction), David Lenderhendler (Yeji Data Lab), and Takuma Nakabayashi (Obayashi)
pRESENTATION
Obayashi Corporation Highlight: Robotics in AEC
Leadership from Obayashi Corporation and its partners gathered on this panel to discuss how to advance efficiency and labor-saving measures in the construction industry through robotics. Panelists explored the crucial mindset shift and processed changes among users who effectively utilize such technologies, as well as other topics including efforts to prioritize safety for unmanned operations and establishing pricing models that emphasize business viability.
Speakers: Shinya Sugiura (Obayashi), Ryo Hiratsuka (Silver Eyez), Henri Lee (Xpanner), and Shigeo Ohba (EARTHBRAIN)
pANEL discussion
Future Workforce: The Sector's Transition for its Workforce
Member-only Content
As the AEC/O sector undergoes rapid transformation driven by technology, sustainability, and shifting market demands, its workforce faces unprecedented change. This panel brought together industry leaders and major global contractors to explore how the industry can navigate reskilling, talent retention, and evolving roles in light of new technologies. Industry experts discussed strategies for aligning workforce capabilities with emerging business models while ensuring equitable and inclusive opportunities. Attendees gained practical insights into supporting people through the sector’s next era of growth and innovation.
Speakers: Shivaji Das (IGPI), Haobo Liang (Hong Kong Center for Construction Robotics), and Philip Reid (Vinci)
pANEL discussion
Venture: Taking Stock of Investment and Accelerating
Member-only Content
Asia’s AEC/O sector is emerging as a hotbed for innovation, with venture capital and corporate venture arms fueling the next generation of technology and business models. This panel convened both VC and CVC leaders to examine the current investment landscape, highlight success stories, and identify the regions and technologies attracting the most momentum. Speakers shared perspectives on scaling startups, navigating regional market dynamics, and building cross-border partnerships.
Speakers: Spencer Cogan (Gray Capital), Cutler Knupp (Haskell), Juan Nieto (Zacua Ventures), and Michael Sarchet (WiL VC)
Member-only content
Collaboration and open innovation are becoming essential drivers of progress in the built world, breaking down silos to accelerate problem-solving and technological adoption. In this session, representatives from the BuiltWorlds Global Innovators List shared how they are forging cross-industry partnerships, building open ecosystems, and co-developing solutions that address shared challenges. Panelists discussed lessons learned from global initiatives, from joint R&D to data-sharing platforms, that are transforming how projects are conceived and delivered. Attendees gained actionable insights into fostering a culture of openness that drives measurable impact across the AEC/O sector.
Speakers: Damien Bahon (Bouygues Construction), Shuntaro Kano (Shimizu), and Jun Oishi (Takenaka)
Leadership from DAITEC and Trusstor met to discuss how their partnership blends Japanese and Western technologies and best practices, offering insights into new opportunities for smarter building practices in Japan and across the global construction industry.
Speakers: Seiichiro Hori (DAITEC) and Omri Sorek (Trusstor Division, DAITEC)
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