DEFTA Partners

DEFTA Partners, established in 1984, is a San Francisco-based venture capital firm. It focuses on early-stage investments, primarily in the information technology sector, with a global outlook. The firm also considers opportunities in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and healthcare. DEFTA has a presence in the United States, Japan, Israel, and the United Kingdom, enabling it to support and accelerate the growth of its portfolio companies worldwide.

Masahide (Masa) Isono

Principal

Kyoko Watanabe

Managing Director

Jingfei Yu

Analyst

31 past transactions

Endogena

Series A in 2021
Endogena is a biotech company that develops endogenous regenerative medicines to repair and regenerate tissues and organs. Endogena's approach has the potential of a paradigm shift to treat degenerative conditions related to ageing and genetic disorders. The company implements innovation in the field of regenerative medicine. Their science combines the latest developments in stem cell biology, AI, and expertise in small-molecule drug design to develop breakthrough treatments for degenerative diseases.

DiA Imaging Analysis

Venture Round in 2021
DiA Imaging Analysis Ltd. is a technology company based in Beersheba, Israel, specializing in AI-powered ultrasound analysis designed to enhance the evaluation of cardiac function and other medical conditions. Founded in 2009, DiA offers a range of innovative applications, including LVivo EF for automated ejection fraction evaluation, LVivo RV for right ventricle analysis, and LVivo Strain, which assesses myocardial strain as an early indicator of reduced left ventricular function. Their tools simplify the ultrasound imaging process by providing automated analysis and optimal view selection, improving the diagnostic capabilities of clinicians. DiA's technology is compatible with various ultrasound devices and healthcare IT systems, streamlining the detection of clinical abnormalities. The company holds FDA and CE clearances and serves thousands of users globally, addressing critical challenges in ultrasound utilization by enabling more accurate and efficient image analysis through advanced pattern recognition and machine learning algorithms.

InformAI

Seed Round in 2021
InformAI, LLC is a company based in Houston, Texas, specializing in business analytics and artificial intelligence solutions tailored for the healthcare industry. Founded in 2017, InformAI develops advanced software that enhances medical diagnostics and boosts the productivity of radiologists. Its offerings include classifiers for paranasal sinuses and brain cancer, as well as predictive tools for surgical risks and patient outcomes. The company's AI-enabled tools leverage deep learning algorithms and natural language processing to facilitate image classification and analyze medical reports, thereby supporting healthcare organizations and medical device companies in improving operational efficiency and patient care. By synthesizing large datasets and addressing clinical challenges, InformAI aims to enhance patient outcomes and streamline healthcare operations.

Acepodia

Series B in 2021
Acepodia is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing innovative, first-in-class cell therapies for cancer treatment. The company utilizes its proprietary Antibody-Cell Conjugation (ACC) platform technology to attach tumor-targeting antibodies directly to immune cell receptors, enhancing the interaction between immune and cancer cells. This approach generates highly specific and potent cell therapies without requiring genetic engineering. Acepodia is dedicated to expanding its research, clinical development, and manufacturing capabilities to provide effective immunotherapeutic strategies against various types of cancer. The company maintains a broad pipeline portfolio, each targeting different cancer indications.

Endogena

Venture Round in 2021
Endogena is a biotech company that develops endogenous regenerative medicines to repair and regenerate tissues and organs. Endogena's approach has the potential of a paradigm shift to treat degenerative conditions related to ageing and genetic disorders. The company implements innovation in the field of regenerative medicine. Their science combines the latest developments in stem cell biology, AI, and expertise in small-molecule drug design to develop breakthrough treatments for degenerative diseases.

Aegle Therapeutics

Series A in 2020
Aegle Therapeutics Corporation is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative therapies utilizing extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from allogeneic bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells. Established in 2019 and headquartered in Arlington, Massachusetts, with an additional office in Miami, Florida, Aegle aims to address severe dermatological conditions, particularly dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa, a rare pediatric skin disorder characterized by blistering. The company's proprietary platform technology is designed to harness the regenerative properties of stem cells in a cell-free format, potentially offering a safer and more cost-effective solution for healing. Aegle's EV therapy is intended to facilitate functional regeneration and organization of complex tissue structures, thereby enhancing healing, reducing scarring, and improving overall cosmetic outcomes. The company's Investigational New Drug application for treating dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa has been cleared by the FDA, positioning Aegle to enter clinical trials.

InformAI

Seed Round in 2020
InformAI, LLC is a company based in Houston, Texas, specializing in business analytics and artificial intelligence solutions tailored for the healthcare industry. Founded in 2017, InformAI develops advanced software that enhances medical diagnostics and boosts the productivity of radiologists. Its offerings include classifiers for paranasal sinuses and brain cancer, as well as predictive tools for surgical risks and patient outcomes. The company's AI-enabled tools leverage deep learning algorithms and natural language processing to facilitate image classification and analyze medical reports, thereby supporting healthcare organizations and medical device companies in improving operational efficiency and patient care. By synthesizing large datasets and addressing clinical challenges, InformAI aims to enhance patient outcomes and streamline healthcare operations.

TARA Biosystems

Series A in 2020
TARA Biosystems, Inc. is a biotechnology company that specializes in developing organ-on-a-chip technology for evaluating new therapies and drug compounds, particularly in the field of cardiac medicine. Founded in 2014 and based in the United States, the company produces predictive in vitro human cardiac tissue models derived from human stem cells. These models are matured to physiologically relevant adult-like levels, allowing for accurate measurement of cardiac functionality, including contractile force. TARA Biosystems focuses on enhancing drug discovery and safety assessment processes by providing high-fidelity solutions that enable faster and safer development of new medicines. By harnessing human biology and data, the company aims to transform cardiac drug discovery and improve patient health outcomes.

1World Online

Series A in 2020
1World Online, Inc. is a developer of a consumer intelligence platform designed to enhance user engagement and drive revenue for publishers and advertisers. Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Redwood City, California, with additional offices across various global locations, the platform allows users to create polls, quizzes, surveys, and trivia. This functionality not only increases reader interaction but also provides valuable advertising opportunities. By leveraging artificial intelligence, 1World Online enables businesses to gain insights into their audiences, improving their ability to profile and monetize them effectively. The platform also supports editors and journalists by providing timely news content, allowing for better-targeted stories and fostering improved relationships with readers.

Aegle Therapeutics

Series A in 2020
Aegle Therapeutics Corporation is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative therapies utilizing extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from allogeneic bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells. Established in 2019 and headquartered in Arlington, Massachusetts, with an additional office in Miami, Florida, Aegle aims to address severe dermatological conditions, particularly dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa, a rare pediatric skin disorder characterized by blistering. The company's proprietary platform technology is designed to harness the regenerative properties of stem cells in a cell-free format, potentially offering a safer and more cost-effective solution for healing. Aegle's EV therapy is intended to facilitate functional regeneration and organization of complex tissue structures, thereby enhancing healing, reducing scarring, and improving overall cosmetic outcomes. The company's Investigational New Drug application for treating dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa has been cleared by the FDA, positioning Aegle to enter clinical trials.

Actuate Therapeutics

Series B in 2019
Actuate Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company based in Fort Worth, Texas, with an additional office in Dublin, Ireland. The company focuses on developing innovative therapeutics that inhibit Glycogen Synthase Kinase-3β (GSK-3β), a key enzyme involved in various biological processes linked to cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. Actuate's research primarily targets high-impact cancers, including glioblastoma, ovarian, breast, and pancreatic cancers, as well as conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, bipolar disorder, and type II diabetes. The company's lead compound, elraglusib, is designed to enter cancer cells and disrupt GSK-3β function, thereby impeding tumor survival and proliferation. Actuate Therapeutics aims to advance its promising drug candidates through clinical development, demonstrating significant anti-tumor activity in challenging cancer types.

BioEclipse Therapeutics

Series A in 2019
BioEclipse Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in San Francisco, California, focused on developing innovative immune-oncology therapeutics for cancer treatment. The company specializes in a proprietary approach that combines activated immune cells with an adapted oncolytic virus, which selectively targets and destroys malignant cells. This method enhances the immune system's ability to recognize and attack tumors, leading to curative treatments across a wide range of tumor types. BioEclipse aims to improve clinical outcomes and the quality of life for cancer patients, striving to advance the field of oncology toward making cancer a curable disease. Established in 2006 and previously known as ConcentRx Inc., the company rebranded in 2017 to reflect its commitment to pioneering immune therapies without requiring the reengineering of patients' own cells.

Actuate Therapeutics

Series B in 2019
Actuate Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company based in Fort Worth, Texas, with an additional office in Dublin, Ireland. The company focuses on developing innovative therapeutics that inhibit Glycogen Synthase Kinase-3β (GSK-3β), a key enzyme involved in various biological processes linked to cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. Actuate's research primarily targets high-impact cancers, including glioblastoma, ovarian, breast, and pancreatic cancers, as well as conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, bipolar disorder, and type II diabetes. The company's lead compound, elraglusib, is designed to enter cancer cells and disrupt GSK-3β function, thereby impeding tumor survival and proliferation. Actuate Therapeutics aims to advance its promising drug candidates through clinical development, demonstrating significant anti-tumor activity in challenging cancer types.

Immusoft

Series B in 2019
Immusoft Corporation is a biotechnology company focused on developing an autologous cell therapy platform aimed at treating a range of human diseases through its proprietary Immune System Programming (ISP) technology. Founded in 2009 and based in Seattle, Washington, Immusoft specializes in modifying the DNA of a patient's immune cells to create biofactories capable of producing gene-encoded medicines, including essential proteins and enzymes that may be missing or defective. The company's innovative approach involves reprogramming B cells, a type of immune cell, which enables them to manufacture and secrete various antibodies. This process not only provides a potential long-term solution for patients but also positions Immusoft at the forefront of biotechnology in addressing rare and infectious diseases.

Savonix

Series A in 2018
Savonix, Inc. is a company that develops an evidence-based digital neuro-cognitive assessment platform aimed at enhancing brain health. Its flagship product, Savonix Mobile, allows users to conduct clinically recognized cognitive assessments directly on their mobile devices. This platform serves a diverse clientele, including healthcare providers, researchers, and large corporations, enabling them to evaluate cognitive function in various domains such as memory and cognitive flexibility. The assessments are guided and reported by a virtual clinician, facilitating the understanding of risks associated with dementia and other brain disorders. Notably, Savonix incorporates a unique 3D game platform that derives insights into cognitive functions, such as Implicit Learning, from user interactions within the app. Founded in 2014 and based in San Francisco, Savonix has established strategic partnerships with institutions like New York University and several biotechnology firms to enhance its offerings and impact in the field of cognitive health.

Touchence

Venture Round in 2018
Touchence, Inc., founded in 2011 and headquartered in Taito, Japan, specializes in the development, manufacturing, and marketing of advanced tactile sensor solutions. The company focuses on creating innovative sensors that are composed of a foam-like material, allowing them to respond to touch and pressure in three dimensions. These tactile sensors are designed to enhance the interaction between humans and robots, making the experience of touching robots more natural and intuitive. By offering a comprehensive service for businesses, Touchence aims to facilitate the integration of soft sensors into robotic products, thereby advancing the capabilities of robots and artificial intelligence applications.

DiA Imaging Analysis

Series A in 2018
DiA Imaging Analysis Ltd. is a technology company based in Beersheba, Israel, specializing in AI-powered ultrasound analysis designed to enhance the evaluation of cardiac function and other medical conditions. Founded in 2009, DiA offers a range of innovative applications, including LVivo EF for automated ejection fraction evaluation, LVivo RV for right ventricle analysis, and LVivo Strain, which assesses myocardial strain as an early indicator of reduced left ventricular function. Their tools simplify the ultrasound imaging process by providing automated analysis and optimal view selection, improving the diagnostic capabilities of clinicians. DiA's technology is compatible with various ultrasound devices and healthcare IT systems, streamlining the detection of clinical abnormalities. The company holds FDA and CE clearances and serves thousands of users globally, addressing critical challenges in ultrasound utilization by enabling more accurate and efficient image analysis through advanced pattern recognition and machine learning algorithms.

ORIG3N

Series B in 2018
ORIG3N, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative treatments for rare genetically inherited diseases, particularly targeting conditions related to the heart, liver, and neurodegeneration. Founded in 2014 and based in Boston, Massachusetts, ORIG3N utilizes induced pluripotent stem cell technology that allows for the differentiation of cells into any type found in the body. This technology is employed to test drug efficacy, screen for medication toxicity, and create personalized treatment pathways. The company offers a range of products, including LifeProfiles, which provides genetic insights related to fitness, metabolism, and exercise recovery; the Run DNA test for optimizing running performance; AURA, which assesses skin health; and Life Capsule, a repository for blood cells aimed at regenerative medicine development.

ORIG3N

Venture Round in 2017
ORIG3N, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative treatments for rare genetically inherited diseases, particularly targeting conditions related to the heart, liver, and neurodegeneration. Founded in 2014 and based in Boston, Massachusetts, ORIG3N utilizes induced pluripotent stem cell technology that allows for the differentiation of cells into any type found in the body. This technology is employed to test drug efficacy, screen for medication toxicity, and create personalized treatment pathways. The company offers a range of products, including LifeProfiles, which provides genetic insights related to fitness, metabolism, and exercise recovery; the Run DNA test for optimizing running performance; AURA, which assesses skin health; and Life Capsule, a repository for blood cells aimed at regenerative medicine development.

ORIG3N

Series A in 2015
ORIG3N, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative treatments for rare genetically inherited diseases, particularly targeting conditions related to the heart, liver, and neurodegeneration. Founded in 2014 and based in Boston, Massachusetts, ORIG3N utilizes induced pluripotent stem cell technology that allows for the differentiation of cells into any type found in the body. This technology is employed to test drug efficacy, screen for medication toxicity, and create personalized treatment pathways. The company offers a range of products, including LifeProfiles, which provides genetic insights related to fitness, metabolism, and exercise recovery; the Run DNA test for optimizing running performance; AURA, which assesses skin health; and Life Capsule, a repository for blood cells aimed at regenerative medicine development.

1World Online

Series A in 2015
1World Online, Inc. is a developer of a consumer intelligence platform designed to enhance user engagement and drive revenue for publishers and advertisers. Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Redwood City, California, with additional offices across various global locations, the platform allows users to create polls, quizzes, surveys, and trivia. This functionality not only increases reader interaction but also provides valuable advertising opportunities. By leveraging artificial intelligence, 1World Online enables businesses to gain insights into their audiences, improving their ability to profile and monetize them effectively. The platform also supports editors and journalists by providing timely news content, allowing for better-targeted stories and fostering improved relationships with readers.

MeeVee

Series D in 2007
MeeVee is an online platform that specializes in providing personalized TV guides, allowing users to curate their viewing experience based on their interests. By selecting favorite actors, genres, or specific keywords, users receive customized listings of upcoming programming that align with their preferences. The service continuously updates these listings, ensuring users are informed about relevant shows and movies until they choose to change their interests. MeeVee also offers summaries, episode trailers, and detailed information about various TV shows across numerous cable and satellite channels, all at no cost to the user. Additionally, the MeeVee Guide widget can be integrated into other websites, enabling visitors to access personalized TV listings directly from those pages. This approach creates a tailored web experience, moving away from traditional, universal TV grids.

MeeVee

Series B in 2006
MeeVee is an online platform that specializes in providing personalized TV guides, allowing users to curate their viewing experience based on their interests. By selecting favorite actors, genres, or specific keywords, users receive customized listings of upcoming programming that align with their preferences. The service continuously updates these listings, ensuring users are informed about relevant shows and movies until they choose to change their interests. MeeVee also offers summaries, episode trailers, and detailed information about various TV shows across numerous cable and satellite channels, all at no cost to the user. Additionally, the MeeVee Guide widget can be integrated into other websites, enabling visitors to access personalized TV listings directly from those pages. This approach creates a tailored web experience, moving away from traditional, universal TV grids.

MeeVee

Series A in 2005
MeeVee is an online platform that specializes in providing personalized TV guides, allowing users to curate their viewing experience based on their interests. By selecting favorite actors, genres, or specific keywords, users receive customized listings of upcoming programming that align with their preferences. The service continuously updates these listings, ensuring users are informed about relevant shows and movies until they choose to change their interests. MeeVee also offers summaries, episode trailers, and detailed information about various TV shows across numerous cable and satellite channels, all at no cost to the user. Additionally, the MeeVee Guide widget can be integrated into other websites, enabling visitors to access personalized TV listings directly from those pages. This approach creates a tailored web experience, moving away from traditional, universal TV grids.

Fortinet

Series E in 2004
Fortinet is a cybersecurity company based in California that specializes in network security appliances and a comprehensive range of security solutions, including cloud security, zero-trust access, and security operations. The company serves a diverse clientele, including enterprises, managed service providers, and telecommunications carriers, and is known for its ability to deliver high levels of security while minimizing total ownership costs. With over 700,000 customers globally, Fortinet primarily generates revenue through its subscription and support services, providing a flexible and scalable path for expansion in the ever-evolving cybersecurity landscape.

Fortinet

Series D in 2003
Fortinet is a cybersecurity company based in California that specializes in network security appliances and a comprehensive range of security solutions, including cloud security, zero-trust access, and security operations. The company serves a diverse clientele, including enterprises, managed service providers, and telecommunications carriers, and is known for its ability to deliver high levels of security while minimizing total ownership costs. With over 700,000 customers globally, Fortinet primarily generates revenue through its subscription and support services, providing a flexible and scalable path for expansion in the ever-evolving cybersecurity landscape.

BroadWare Technologies

Series A in 2003
As of June 11, 2007, BroadWare Technologies, Inc. was acquired by Cisco Systems, Inc. BroadWare Technologies, Inc., a network video systems company, engages in the development and delivery of platforms and end-to-end browser-based solutions for collecting, recording, routing, and managing live and archived surveillance video. It offers Media Platform, a suite of server-based technologies for management, distribution, and storage of video surveillance data in a network environment; and Application Server, which enables users to determine levels of authority for viewing cameras, creating or viewing archives, and controlling movable cameras. The company offers Command Server, a digital matrix switch that allows each operator and intelligent application to control the video being displayed on various monitors; and Media Server that enables distribution, archiving, and management of video feeds. In addition, BroadWare Technologies provides specialty professional services, education and training, and support services. The company provides its products for use in applications, such as military bases, unmanned vehicles, embassies, corrections, border control, perimeter montoring, law enforcement, airports and seaports, homeland security, traffic montoring, and public infrastructure montoring, as well as corporate security, retail, public transit systems, gaming, health care, colleges and universities monitoring, petro-chemical, utlitites, and financial services. It serves airports and seaports, transportation systems, and various federal agencies and military branches. The company, formerly known as Graham Technology Solutions, was founded in 1995 and is headquartered in Santa Clara, California.

Fortinet

Venture Round in 2002
Fortinet is a cybersecurity company based in California that specializes in network security appliances and a comprehensive range of security solutions, including cloud security, zero-trust access, and security operations. The company serves a diverse clientele, including enterprises, managed service providers, and telecommunications carriers, and is known for its ability to deliver high levels of security while minimizing total ownership costs. With over 700,000 customers globally, Fortinet primarily generates revenue through its subscription and support services, providing a flexible and scalable path for expansion in the ever-evolving cybersecurity landscape.

Oplus Technologies

Series A in 2001
Oplus Technologies Ltd., a fabless semiconductor company, designs, develops, and markets integrated circuit display processors and software solutions for the digital display market. It offers multimedia display and video processors for flat panel plasma and LCD displays, TVs, projection systems, LCD monitors, and digital display applications. The company also provides system-on-chip solutions. It serves consumer electronics companies and display device manufacturers in Israel and internationally. Oplus Technologies Ltd. was founded in 1993 and is headquartered in Yokneam, Israel.

SourceGate Systems

Series A in 2000
SourceGate Systems is a developer of an internet-based content delivery system tailored for Internet Service Providers (ISPs). The company offers managed services that allow ISPs to create new advertising-based revenue streams, enhancing their traditional subscription-based models. By providing access to personalized and content-rich services, SourceGate Systems enables its clients to diversify their offerings and improve customer engagement. The company's innovative solutions aim to empower ISPs to effectively capitalize on emerging digital advertising opportunities while meeting the evolving needs of their customer base.

Intraspect Software

Venture Round in 2000
Intraspect Software is a U.S.-based company founded in 1995 that specializes in knowledge management and collaborative software solutions for enterprises. The company's offerings focus on improving inter-enterprise collaboration, particularly in complex industries such as financial services and high technology. Intraspect's products enable organizations to create shared communities and facilitate collaboration on strategic accounts and business processes. Its notable product, Intraspect 5.5, features architectural enhancements designed for inter-enterprise deployments, while the C-mail Services facilitate communication between users and the software. Intraspect Software aims to enhance communication and collaboration across functional, organizational, and geographic boundaries, streamlining interactions among cross-functional teams, customers, suppliers, and partners. The company was acquired by Vignette in 2003.
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