D4V

D4V (Design for Ventures) is a Tokyo-based early-stage venture capital firm that invests in disruptive, consumer and enterprise technology startups. Partnering with the global design company IDEO, D4V provides both hands-on assistance and coaching to help startups create value via human-centered customer experiences and interactions.

Tom Kelley

Chairman

48 past transactions

Panalyt

Seed Round in 2021
Panalyt, Pte. Ltd. is a Singapore-based company founded in 2017 that specializes in developing application programming interface (API) tools for integrating data across various Human Resource Management Systems. The company provides a platform that offers actionable insights and predictive analytics, aiming to enhance decision-making processes within organizations. By analyzing real-time data and offering benchmarking against peers, Panalyt enables businesses to optimize key HR functions such as attrition, recruitment, and employee engagement. Its solutions include dashboards and presentation decks that connect the human resource ecosystem, allowing companies to make informed, data-driven decisions regarding their workforce.

Nudge

Seed Round in 2021
Provider of financial planning platform designed to create a financial institution with new values and behaviors from scratch. The company's platform has been strengthening its team, developing the first service, and preparing for the necessary financial license acquisition, enabling users to secure their future financially.

MiddleField

Series B in 2020
MiddleField is a team to make cars the best entertainment and to make the lives of everyone involved in cars into entertainment. They creates a society where a lot of people are involved as a middle point of all people's dreams. MiddleField owns and operates an e-commerce platform offering cars.

THECOO

Series A in 2020
THECOO, Inc. offers influencer planning and analysis tool for enterprise marketers, advertising agencies, and public relation company planners. The company offers its products and services under brand name iCON Suite, that make the value of influencer visible; iCon CAST, which connect YouTubers and companies; RIPPLY, an influence marketing platform; and fanicon, a membership-based fan community application. The company also carries out business, such as planning promotional measures for advertising companies, negotiating casting, and direction of measures. The company was founded in 2014 and is based in Tokyo, Japan.

MiddleField

Series B in 2020
MiddleField is a team to make cars the best entertainment and to make the lives of everyone involved in cars into entertainment. They creates a society where a lot of people are involved as a middle point of all people's dreams. MiddleField owns and operates an e-commerce platform offering cars.

FiNANCiE

Seed Round in 2020
FiNANCiE is a social networking service.

Cinnamon AI

Series C in 2020
Cinnamon, Inc., based in Tokyo, Japan, specializes in artificial intelligence products and consulting services aimed at enhancing human productivity by automating repetitive tasks. The company has developed several innovative tools, including an auto documentation system that extracts information from various sources such as application forms and emails to generate formatted documents. Additionally, Cinnamon AI offers a highly accurate recommendation and matching engine, alongside a natural language understanding chatbot. These solutions are designed to facilitate more efficient workflows, allowing users to concentrate on creative and strategic activities by leveraging accumulated data patterns for better decision-making.

Scalar

Series A in 2020
Scalar, Inc. is a Tokyo-based company founded in 2017 that specializes in research and development of distributed ledger technology (DLT) software solutions. The company offers Scalar DLT, which encompasses Scalar DB, a distributed database software, and Scalar DL, a distributed ledger software. These solutions empower businesses to enhance their operations by leveraging the scalability and tamper-resistant features of distributed ledger technology. Scalar aims to support business operators in transforming their processes through innovative software applications.

STUDIO Japan

Series A in 2019
STUDIO is a development and operation of the next-generation design tool.

STUDIO

Seed Round in 2019
STUDIO, Inc. develops code-based design tools for digital service. The company was founded in 2016 and is headquartered in Tokyo, Japan.

ExaWizards

Venture Round in 2019
ExaWizards Inc. engages in development of an artificial intelligence (AI) based platform, Coaching AI. It helps users to learn skills and support care giving training for people with dementia. The company was founded in 2016 and is headquartered in Tokyo, Japan.

Principle

Venture Round in 2019
Principle Inc. is a Tokyo-based company that specializes in home security services, focusing on innovative solutions such as smart room security. The firm aims to enhance residential safety through advanced technology, catering to the growing demand for secure living environments. With a commitment to developing user-friendly security systems, Principle Inc. is positioned to meet the needs of modern homeowners seeking reliable protection for their properties.

NEW STANDARD

Venture Round in 2019
NEW STANDARD Inc. formerly known as TABI LABO Inc. provides advertising services. The company supports branding and marketing activities using media and video production; virtual reality (VR) content; and through events. It also does consulting work. The company was founded in 2014 and is based in Tokyo, Japan. formerly known as provides advertising services. The company supports branding and marketing activities using media and video production; virtual reality (VR) content; and through events. It also does consulting work. The company was founded in 2014 and is based in Tokyo, Japan.

FiNANCiE

Seed Round in 2019
FiNANCiE is a social networking service.

Voicy

Series A in 2019
Voicy, Inc. is a Tokyo-based company founded in 2016 that operates a mobile voice news application. The platform recruits media personalities and news organizations to deliver the latest news in an engaging format, allowing users to receive updates from familiar voices. By managing a voice distribution network, Voicy aims to provide innovative audio content that combines information dissemination with entertainment. The application enhances user experience by creating a unique blend of news and personality, leveraging voice technology to deliver timely information.

StreetAcademy

Venture Round in 2018
StreetAcademy, Inc. operates an online platform based in Tokyo, Japan, that serves as a marketplace for education. The platform connects individuals looking to teach with those eager to learn, facilitating a variety of courses and learning experiences. By providing a space for users to share their knowledge and skills, StreetAcademy fosters a collaborative learning environment that empowers both educators and students.

Evolany

Venture Round in 2018
Evolany Co., Ltd. is a software development company based in Yokohama, Japan, founded in 2018. The company specializes in creating applications for business automation, including a chatbot designed for customer relationship management. Evolany serves various sectors such as automotive, education, fashion retail, government, food and beverage, shopping malls, medical institutions, and hospitality. Its platform allows businesses to transform traditional communication methods like telephone, email, and web messaging into advanced customer management tools, facilitating easier and more efficient customer interaction.

Alpaca

Venture Round in 2018
Alpaca is a technology company based in San Mateo, California, that operates as a securities broker. It specializes in providing an algorithmic trading platform designed for developers to create, manage, and execute trading and investing algorithms. The Alpaca API enables the development of investing applications and brokerage services that facilitate commission-free trading. The company boasts a team with diverse backgrounds in finance and technology and has garnered support from prominent investors in the industry. By focusing on empowering developers, Alpaca aims to enhance access to financial markets through innovative technology solutions.

pafin

Venture Round in 2018
Cryptact Ltd designs and develops a blockchain platform for individual investors in Japan. Its platform provides profit/loss calculation and tax assistance in cryptocurrencies. It also provides a financial management tool for cryptocurrency portfolio. The company was founded in 2018 and is based in Shinjuku, Japan.

AlpacaJapan

Series A in 2018
We are a team of professionals from high-tech and financial industries including Microsoft, Nokia, Sony, Lehman, Barclays, et al. We built our own proprietary AI technology for capital markets, and are currently working with number of top financial institutions globally.

Scalar

Seed Round in 2018
Scalar, Inc. is a Tokyo-based company founded in 2017 that specializes in research and development of distributed ledger technology (DLT) software solutions. The company offers Scalar DLT, which encompasses Scalar DB, a distributed database software, and Scalar DL, a distributed ledger software. These solutions empower businesses to enhance their operations by leveraging the scalability and tamper-resistant features of distributed ledger technology. Scalar aims to support business operators in transforming their processes through innovative software applications.

airCloset

Corporate Round in 2018
airCloset Inc operates a fashion rental platform that provides a range of services focused on clothing and personal styling. The primary service, airCloset, allows users to rent fashionable clothing online, while airClosetxABLE offers a physical rental shop experience. Additionally, the platform features airCloset Fitting, an online styling service, and airCloset Mall, which serves as a monthly rental marketplace for manufacturers. For personalized assistance, airCloset Talk provides a remote personal styling service, catering to individual preferences and needs. This diverse array of offerings positions airCloset as a comprehensive solution for those seeking convenient and stylish fashion choices.

umitron

Seed Round in 2018
Umitron is a data company for aquaculture. We support fish farmers to increase productivity through data analytics. One of the biggest challenges in aquaculture is increasing feeding cost. We optimize feed amount and timing by using fish behavior analytics and water quality data. Our goal is to "install Sustainable Aquaculture on Earth".

Virtusize

Venture Round in 2018
Virtusize is a revolutionary service that helps you find your right size and fit when shopping fashion online, by comparing a garment you are looking to buy with a garment you own. By installing our solution with online retailers, Virtusize helps to remove the largest obstacle to shopping for clothes online, significantly increasing sales and reducing returns. Our rapidly growing number of leading global brands include Uniqlo, New Balance, Kate Spade, Acne, Balenciaga, Allsaints, United Arrows and Lumine etc.

PlusOne

Seed Round in 2018
PlusOne, Inc. operates an augmented reality and artificial intelligence platform designed to enhance employee training for improved client and partner interactions. The company has developed an interactive hologram engine capable of detecting users' emotions, biometrics, positions, and gestures, facilitating immersive simulations and real-time feedback. This technology allows enterprises to provide flexible training solutions that adapt to various business contexts. Founded in 2016, PlusOne is headquartered in San Francisco, California, with additional offices in Tokyo, Japan, and Beijing, China.

ExaWizards

Venture Round in 2018
ExaWizards Inc. engages in development of an artificial intelligence (AI) based platform, Coaching AI. It helps users to learn skills and support care giving training for people with dementia. The company was founded in 2016 and is headquartered in Tokyo, Japan.

Cinnamon AI

Funding Round in 2018
Cinnamon, Inc., based in Tokyo, Japan, specializes in artificial intelligence products and consulting services aimed at enhancing human productivity by automating repetitive tasks. The company has developed several innovative tools, including an auto documentation system that extracts information from various sources such as application forms and emails to generate formatted documents. Additionally, Cinnamon AI offers a highly accurate recommendation and matching engine, alongside a natural language understanding chatbot. These solutions are designed to facilitate more efficient workflows, allowing users to concentrate on creative and strategic activities by leveraging accumulated data patterns for better decision-making.

New World Company Inc

Venture Round in 2018
New World Company, Inc. is a Tokyo-based business that specializes in designing and developing a convertible shoe brand known as FAMZON. The company incorporates innovative heel lock-release technology into its shoe designs, enhancing functionality and style. Operating primarily as a direct-to-consumer brand, New World Company focuses on providing a unique retail experience that caters to modern consumer needs.

nana music

Venture Round in 2018
Nana Music, Inc. is a Tokyo-based company that develops the nana application, a social platform designed for music enthusiasts. Launched in 2011, the application allows users to record and share their music, collaborate with others by adding layers of vocals or instrumentals, and create personalized playlists. It fosters a community where users can engage in discussions about music and participate in collaborative sessions. Additionally, nana music organizes music events and conducts research and development on musical instruments. The application is available for iOS users globally and serves as a space for musical expression and interaction. As of 2017, nana music operates as a subsidiary of DMM.com LTD.

Emerada

Seed Round in 2017
Emerada Co., Ltd. is a bank account aggregation and cash flow analytics platform based in Japan, designed specifically for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and financial institutions. The platform provides a comprehensive view of account information on a single screen, enabling users to monitor daily financial flows and key indicators in real-time. This functionality facilitates faster loan screening processes by allowing financial institutions to access and analyze aggregated data efficiently. In recognition of its innovative approach, Emerada was named one of the top 50 startups by Forbes Japan in 2018.

WED

Seed Round in 2017
One Financial is an application that anyone can introduce card settlement immediately with one smartphone.

STUDIO Japan

Seed Round in 2017
STUDIO is a development and operation of the next-generation design tool.

STUDIO

Seed Round in 2017
STUDIO, Inc. develops code-based design tools for digital service. The company was founded in 2016 and is headquartered in Tokyo, Japan.

Crevo

Venture Round in 2017
Crevo Inc. is a Tokyo-based company that operates a web-based platform facilitating language-free open crowdsourcing contests for custom design. Founded in 2012 and previously known as PurpleCow Inc., Crevo specializes in animation production services through a network of creators. The platform allows users to collaborate with freelancers to produce advertisements and promotional videos, leveraging a direct support system to enhance the creative process. By connecting clients with a diverse pool of talent, Crevo aims to provide innovative design solutions that cater to various needs around the globe.

Infostellar

Series A in 2017
Infostellar Inc., founded in 2016 and based in Tokyo, Japan, specializes in developing cloud-based communication solutions for satellite operators. The company offers StellarStation, a modular platform that allows ground station owners to monetize their surplus capacity while enabling satellite operators to connect with satellites using a diverse range of antennas globally, all through a single interface. By facilitating the sharing of satellite antennas during idle periods, Infostellar helps reduce operational costs and enhance transmission time, thereby improving the quality of service for satellite operators. Additionally, Infostellar provides tools such as Ground Station Search and Makesat, further streamlining the satellite communication process.

Ubie

Seed Round in 2017
Ubie, Inc. is a Tokyo-based health-tech startup that focuses on developing artificial intelligence-driven healthcare solutions. Founded in 2017, the company offers a hospital software product known as "Ubie for Hospital," or AI Monshin, which assists medical institutions in creating clinical records through an AI-powered questionnaire. This tool enables physicians to gather patient information efficiently under the guidance of specialists. Additionally, Ubie provides a consumer application, an AI symptom checker, which helps users understand their symptoms by answering a series of AI-generated questions. This application also offers insights on managing symptoms based on relevant disease information, enhancing the overall patient experience in healthcare.

standing ovation

Venture Round in 2017
Standing Ovation is a company that specializes in developing fashion coordination applications aimed at enhancing the online and offline retail experience. Its primary offering is an online closet application that promotes sustainable shopping by allowing users to upload images of their own clothing. This interactive platform enables users to mix and match their outfits with the clothing items of other users, fostering a community-driven approach to fashion. By facilitating this virtual collaboration, Standing Ovation encourages users to explore new styles and combinations, ultimately promoting a fashionable and sustainable wardrobe.

WhatzMoney

Venture Round in 2017
WhatzMoney Inc. provides information providing services for financial products using the Internet. Its services include WhatzMoney Loan Comparison, a financial service to propose the suitable mortgage; WhatzMoney Media is a mortgage information site that tells useful information about mortgage in an easy-to-understand manner; and Home Re: loan, a service to review customer's mortgage loan and support franchisees' order receiving rate UP and sales UP for remodeling and solar power generation installation. The company was founded in 2015 and is headquartered in Tokyo, Japan.

Excite Japan

Venture Round in 2017
Excite Japan is a Japan-based company focused on the development of internet businesses in Japan. Starting with operations of a portal site, its business model has grown through being focused on services targeted at women. Excite Japan’s revenue is derived from placed-advertising by companies as a media content portal, internet-connection service fees, and the provision of paid content to users. It was launched in 1997 and is headquartered in Minato, Tokyo.

Emerada

Seed Round in 2017
Emerada Co., Ltd. is a bank account aggregation and cash flow analytics platform based in Japan, designed specifically for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and financial institutions. The platform provides a comprehensive view of account information on a single screen, enabling users to monitor daily financial flows and key indicators in real-time. This functionality facilitates faster loan screening processes by allowing financial institutions to access and analyze aggregated data efficiently. In recognition of its innovative approach, Emerada was named one of the top 50 startups by Forbes Japan in 2018.

AlpacaJapan

Venture Round in 2017
We are a team of professionals from high-tech and financial industries including Microsoft, Nokia, Sony, Lehman, Barclays, et al. We built our own proprietary AI technology for capital markets, and are currently working with number of top financial institutions globally.

Alpaca

Venture Round in 2017
Alpaca is a technology company based in San Mateo, California, that operates as a securities broker. It specializes in providing an algorithmic trading platform designed for developers to create, manage, and execute trading and investing algorithms. The Alpaca API enables the development of investing applications and brokerage services that facilitate commission-free trading. The company boasts a team with diverse backgrounds in finance and technology and has garnered support from prominent investors in the industry. By focusing on empowering developers, Alpaca aims to enhance access to financial markets through innovative technology solutions.

CAMPFIRE

Series A in 2017
CAMPFIRE, Inc. is a leading provider of cloud funding platforms in Japan, offering a range of services designed to support diverse projects and initiatives. Its flagship platform, CAMPFIRE, enables users to confidently launch projects, while additional specialized services include GoodMorning for socially beneficial projects, CLOSS for fashion-related ventures, and FAAVO for regional initiatives. The company also operates polka, a crowdfunding application that facilitates fundraising among friends for personal events, and CAMPFIRE Bank, which focuses on financial services and loans. Gojo, another of its offerings, is a community wallet application that allows users to share funds with family and community members. Catering to individuals, creators, corporations, non-profit organizations, universities, and local governments, CAMPFIRE has successfully facilitated approximately 15,000 projects, raising around $70 million from over 700,000 contributors since its inception in 2011 in Tokyo, Japan.

Ednity

Venture Round in 2017
Ednity Co., Ltd. engages in management of private social networking services for education business. The company was founded in 2013 and is based in Tokyo, Japan.

Sprocket

Series A in 2017
Sprocket Inc. develops and provides customer development application. The company offers Sprocket, a customer service tool that works on android and IoS. The company was founded in 2014 and is based in Tokyo, Japan.

FanForward

Seed Round in 2017
FanForward Inc. designs and develops an ticket exchange platform. Its platform allows fans to exchange/purchase sports match tickets from ticket holders. Its platform also allows user to purchase food and memorabilia from concession stands. Internet based FanForward Inc. was founded in 2016 and is based in Tokyo, Japan.

Planet Table

Venture Round in 2016
Planet Table Inc. is a Tokyo-based company that specializes in developing and operating an online food distribution platform. Founded in 2014, the company focuses on sustainable food production and aims to minimize waste in the food supply chain. By leveraging technology, Planet Table seeks to create a comprehensive production and distribution support platform that enhances efficiency and fosters sustainability in the food industry.

Planet Table

Venture Round in 2015
Planet Table Inc. is a Tokyo-based company that specializes in developing and operating an online food distribution platform. Founded in 2014, the company focuses on sustainable food production and aims to minimize waste in the food supply chain. By leveraging technology, Planet Table seeks to create a comprehensive production and distribution support platform that enhances efficiency and fosters sustainability in the food industry.
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