Venture Labo Investment

Venture Labo Investment is a venture capital firm established in 2000 and located in Chuo-ku, Tokyo. The firm specializes in providing financial support to companies at various growth stages, including start-up, early, middle, and late stages. It focuses on investing in a diverse range of industries, such as artificial intelligence, fintech, robotics, IT services, cloud services, and the bio and medical sectors, as well as health and healthcare. Through its strategic investments, Venture Labo Investment aims to foster innovation and growth in these dynamic markets.

Tadayoshi Yamanaka

Founder

Past deals in Japan

Jiraffe

Series E in 2024
Jiraffe Inc., founded in 2014 and based in Tokyo, Japan, is a media business company that specializes in the planning, development, and management of internet services. The company operates platforms that allow customers to compare prices for iPhone repairs and parts replacements, as well as buy and sell smartphones individually. Additionally, Jiraffe offers a flea market trading application focused on items like trading cards, sneakers, and hobbyist collectibles, enabling users to make informed purchasing decisions and trade authentic products.

SImount

Series A in 2024
SImount Inc. is a Japanese company, established on August 8, 2014, that specializes in the development of a versatile database management system. The platform integrates various data formats, including Excel, CSV, and PDF, enabling businesses to leverage their data effectively. In addition to its database solutions, SImount offers dispatch system software aimed at enhancing transportation and logistics in the B2B delivery sector. This system automates the selection of appropriate vehicles and drivers for each delivery, thereby reducing delivery times and improving customer satisfaction. Furthermore, the platform includes reporting and communication tools that allow businesses to track shipments in real-time, ultimately leading to increased operational efficiency and sales growth.

HashPort

Series C in 2023
HashPort, founded in 2018, supports new web3 businesses by offering development and financing solutions, including Initial Exchange Offerings (IEOs). The company specializes in creating crypto-asset products such as digital wallets and provides consulting services aimed at digitalizing assets. HashPort also focuses on wallet systems and non-fungible token platforms, helping cryptocurrency exchange firms implement blockchain technologies. Its subsidiary, HashPalette, established in 2020, made notable strides by conducting Japan's first approved IEO, developing a blockchain tailored for NFTs, and operating one of the country's largest NFT marketplaces. In April 2023, HashPort secured over 1.2 billion yen in a Series C funding round involving six underwriters.

Gojo & Company

Series E in 2022
Gojo & Company Inc. is a holding company based in Tokyo, Japan, that focuses on enhancing financial inclusion for underserved communities globally. Founded in 2014, the company operates through its subsidiaries, including Microfinance Delta International and Sejaya Micro Credit, to provide microfinance services. Gojo partners with financial service providers across 13 countries in Southeast Asia, South Asia, Central Asia, the Caucasus, and Africa. The company's mission is to ensure that individuals can transcend their circumstances and shape their futures by gaining access to quality and affordable financial services. Through its investments in microfinance institutions, Gojo aims to empower clients in developing regions to improve their lives and achieve financial stability.

Terra Drone

Series B in 2022
Terra Drone, based in Tokyo, is a manufacturer of drones and software that offers a variety of drone services, including civil engineering surveying, mine surveying, and facility inspections. The company provides industrial drone services such as aerial photography, data analysis, and operation management, both within Japan and internationally. Terra Drone specializes in inspecting complex job sites in sectors like construction, oil and gas extraction, and agriculture. By leveraging advanced drone technology, the company enables clients to efficiently collect, analyze, and interpret data related to significant infrastructural projects, thereby enhancing operational effectiveness and safety.

ReadyFor

Venture Round in 2021
ReadyFor Inc. is a Tokyo-based company established in 2014 that operates a cloud funding platform specializing in crowdfunding for the service sector. The platform connects investors with various projects, facilitating short-term fundraising campaigns aimed at generating pre-sales and gathering feedback from early adopters. ReadyFor enables clients, including charities and startups, to solicit and raise funds efficiently, streamlining the process of collecting support for their initiatives.

Terra Drone

Series A in 2021
Terra Drone, based in Tokyo, is a manufacturer of drones and software that offers a variety of drone services, including civil engineering surveying, mine surveying, and facility inspections. The company provides industrial drone services such as aerial photography, data analysis, and operation management, both within Japan and internationally. Terra Drone specializes in inspecting complex job sites in sectors like construction, oil and gas extraction, and agriculture. By leveraging advanced drone technology, the company enables clients to efficiently collect, analyze, and interpret data related to significant infrastructural projects, thereby enhancing operational effectiveness and safety.

Floadia

Venture Round in 2021
Floadia Corporation is a Tokyo-based company established in 2011 that specializes in the development, licensing, and sale of semiconductor intellectual property, particularly focused on embedded non-volatile memory solutions. With a strong engineering team comprising former employees from Renesas, Floadia leverages extensive experience in embedded FLASH technology to deliver innovative low-power memory chips. The company's products are designed for diverse applications, including Internet of Things devices, automobiles, smartphones, and smart cards. Floadia's offerings not only reduce manufacturing costs but also enhance power efficiency and boast auto-grade heat endurance capabilities, making them suitable for a variety of demanding environments. In addition to its product portfolio, Floadia also provides technology consulting services to its clients.

Gift Pad

Venture Round in 2020
Gift Pad Co., Ltd. is a company based in Nishinomiya City, Japan, specializing in an online catalog gift service that supports the local retail industry. It offers a diverse selection of gift categories, including gourmet food, sweets, home appliances, and experience gifts, suitable for various occasions such as weddings, childbirth celebrations, birthdays, and moving celebrations. Gift Pad's platform enables both corporations and individuals to send gifts remotely through social media, email, and text messaging. This innovative approach aids in the recovery of the local retail industry, particularly through initiatives like online coupon and point exchange programs.

SImount

Corporate Round in 2020
SImount Inc. is a Japanese company, established on August 8, 2014, that specializes in the development of a versatile database management system. The platform integrates various data formats, including Excel, CSV, and PDF, enabling businesses to leverage their data effectively. In addition to its database solutions, SImount offers dispatch system software aimed at enhancing transportation and logistics in the B2B delivery sector. This system automates the selection of appropriate vehicles and drivers for each delivery, thereby reducing delivery times and improving customer satisfaction. Furthermore, the platform includes reporting and communication tools that allow businesses to track shipments in real-time, ultimately leading to increased operational efficiency and sales growth.

Div

Debt Financing in 2020
Div Inc. is a Tokyo-based company founded in 2012 that specializes in providing programming education through its TECH::CAMP initiative. It offers short-term intensive training courses designed to equip students with the skills needed to become proficient engineers. Div operates programming schools in both online and classroom formats, catering to a diverse range of learners. The company's primary objective is to transform inexperienced individuals into professional engineers capable of pursuing careers in technology, particularly in web design. Through its comprehensive curriculum, Div aims to facilitate the transition from novice to skilled practitioner in the software programming field.

Kringle Pharma

Venture Round in 2020
Kringle Pharma, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company based in Ibaraki, Japan, founded in 2001. The company specializes in the research and development of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) protein medicines, which have regenerative healing properties for liver cells and other organs. Kringle Pharma focuses on creating HGF products aimed at treating a range of conditions, including acute spinal cord injury, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), acute kidney injury associated with ALS, and vocal fold scars. Additionally, the company explores the therapeutic potential of NK4, a bi-functional molecule that acts as an HGF-antagonist with antiangiogenic properties, targeting cancer therapies. Kringle Pharma's innovative approach positions it at the forefront of developing treatments for intractable diseases.

PLANTIO

Venture Round in 2020
PLANTIO, Inc. is a company based in Minato, Japan, with an additional location in Shibuya, that specializes in developing and manufacturing Internet of Things (IoT)-based farm equipment. The company's flagship product, the Connected Planter, is a solar-powered, eco-friendly system designed to promote sustainable agriculture. PLANTIO offers innovative plantation services that leverage AI and IoT technologies to enhance vegetable cultivation. By focusing on off-grid farming systems, PLANTIO aims to address issues related to mass production, food loss, and environmental concerns, enabling customers to engage in sustainable food practices. The company's approach prioritizes efficiency and rationality, empowering individuals to take proactive steps in food production while ensuring the long-term viability of agricultural practices.

MIL

Venture Round in 2020
MIL Inc., founded in 2018 and based in Tokyo, Japan, specializes in interactive video and movie production as well as product development services. The company focuses on a variety of video marketing solutions, including video commerce, online-to-offline (O2O) initiatives, recruitment videos, and landing videos. By integrating innovative video content into marketing strategies, MIL aims to enhance engagement and drive results for its clients.

Strobolight

Venture Round in 2019
Strobolight Inc. is a Tokyo-based company founded in 2012 that operates LOVEGREEN, a comprehensive botanical life web platform. LOVEGREEN offers users daily information on a variety of topics related to gardening, including how to grow flowers and plants, understanding flower language, and managing home gardens. Additionally, the platform features information about gardening shops and related events. Strobolight also provides consistent support services, including production, construction, and maintenance, delivered by knowledgeable staff to assist users facing challenges in their gardening endeavors. The company has expanded its presence with additional offices in Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka.

iYell

Venture Round in 2019
iYell Inc. is a Tokyo-based company that specializes in providing mortgage solutions for real estate companies. Incorporated in 2016, iYell has developed a comprehensive mortgage platform that facilitates mortgage analysis and improves the efficiency of the mortgage process. The platform integrates media and technology to enhance marketing efforts and streamline procedures, allowing users to access vital information about the mortgage market and various closing rates. By collaborating with financial institutions, iYell empowers both businesses and individuals to make informed mortgage decisions with ease.

Yoriso

Series D in 2019
Yoriso Co., Ltd., established in 2009 and previously known as Minrevi Co., Ltd., is a Tokyo-based company that operates a funeral planning platform. This platform connects bereaved families with funeral homes and other end-of-life service providers, offering online reviews and pricing information. It aims to empower individuals to arrange funerals according to their specific needs and preferences.

Nightley

Venture Round in 2019
Nightley Inc. is a Japanese startup founded in 2011 and headquartered in Tokyo. The company specializes in geo-analytics solutions, providing a subscription-based social media analytics and inbound insights tool for various clients, including agencies, brands, local merchants, and government organizations. Nightley's platform enables users to track and visualize foreign tourist hotspots on a map, facilitating communication between shop operators and customers. By collecting and analyzing location-based data, Nightley helps businesses understand the behavioral trends and preferences of visiting foreign tourists, thereby enriching their decision-making processes and enhancing customer engagement.

Tech Ocean

Seed Round in 2019
Tech Ocean Co., Ltd., established in 2018 and headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, specializes in AI and big data-driven recruitment solutions for science and engineering students. The company's core product, Tech Offer, is a virtual recruitment platform that connects graduate and undergraduate students in these fields with relevant job opportunities. Additionally, Tech Ocean provides recruitment consulting services, further aiding clients in their hiring processes. The company's mission is to create a society where engineers can actively contribute, envisioning a future where technology and human potential intersect for mutual growth.

Pixie Dust Technologies

Series B in 2019
Pixie Dust Technologies, Inc. is a technology company based in Tokyo, Japan, founded in 2015. It specializes in the development of advanced computational technologies, particularly in phased array and digital fabrication. The company’s notable product is its ultrasonic phased array system, which enables the generation of force in mid-air, allowing for unique applications such as transporting objects without physical contact, delivering targeted sounds to individuals in a crowd, and directing guide dogs. Additionally, Pixie Dust Technologies creates innovative devices like Sound Hug, which combines music with light and vibration, and Sonorepro, a hair care device utilizing non-contact oscillating pressure stimulation. Other products include Vuevo, a service that visualizes conversations among multiple participants, and kikippa, a device designed for gamma wave sound therapy. Through its diverse offerings, the company aims to integrate technology seamlessly into everyday life, enhancing communication and interaction.

Joyz

Series B in 2018
Joyz Inc. is a Tokyo-based company that develops a cloud application aimed at helping English learners improve their pronunciation and grammar. The application caters to various educational needs, offering support for English conversations tailored to specific situations and providing reference materials aligned with certified textbooks used in compulsory education. Joyz's commitment to enhancing language skills is evident in its user-focused approach, accommodating different learning requirements through accessible technology. The company maintains contact with users via phone and also has a physical location for direct interactions.

Pocket Queries

Venture Round in 2018
Pocket Queries, Inc. is a game development company founded in 2010 and headquartered in Shibuya, Japan. The company specializes in designing and developing augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and mixed reality (MR) applications. Its innovative platform focuses on integrating gaming technology into everyday business operations, allowing clients to effectively manage and share information in a virtual environment. By leveraging AR and VR, Pocket Queries aims to provide practical solutions that enhance communication and adaptability in various settings, all while minimizing the need for expensive hardware. Through its unique approach, the company positions itself at the intersection of gaming and business technology, catering to the evolving needs of its clients.

Enechange

Series B in 2018
Enechange Co., Ltd. is a Japan-based company that specializes in providing an electricity plan comparison website, helping consumers select their electricity providers. Established in April 2015, the company offers online switching services for energy and gas. Enechange also operates various cloud-based platforms aimed at supporting electricity and gas retailers, including the Energy Marketing Acceleration Platform (EMAP) for marketing and customer acquisition, and the Smart-Meter Analytics Platform (SMAP) for profitability analysis and demand response services. Additionally, the company employs artificial intelligence technologies to enhance deregulation efforts in the energy sector, facilitating optimized energy usage and smoother transitions for consumers switching providers. Through its innovative solutions, Enechange plays a critical role in promoting energy efficiency and consumer choice in Japan's liberalized electricity market.

Pafin

Venture Round in 2018
Pafin, formerly known as Cryptact Ltd, is a technology company based in Shinjuku, Japan, that focuses on providing a comprehensive platform for individual investors in the cryptocurrency space. Founded in 2018, the company specializes in profit and loss calculation, tax assistance, and financial management tools tailored for cryptocurrency portfolios. By leveraging advanced technology, Pafin aims to enhance investment and asset management activities, offering users valuable insights and support for managing their virtual currency investments effectively.

Grooves

Corporate Round in 2018
Grooves Inc. is a Tokyo-based company that specializes in developing and operating a social recruiting platform tailored for engineers. Since its inception in 2004, Grooves has been focused on enhancing the recruitment process for candidates, agencies, and companies. The platform facilitates connections between job seekers, particularly non-engineering candidates, and recruiting agents, thereby helping individuals find suitable career opportunities. With a growing clientele of over 3,000 companies across the Asia-Pacific region, Grooves aims to foster business relationships and partnerships within the recruiting community, making it a key player in the recruitment landscape.

Tecotec

Venture Round in 2018
Tecotec Inc., founded in 2007 and based in Tokyo, Japan, specializes in the development and management of web and smartphone applications. The company focuses on Web 3.0 technologies, particularly those related to crypto assets and financial products. Tecotec offers a range of digital services, including blockchain solutions, payment authentication systems, investment management systems, and sales promotion services. By providing these innovative solutions, Tecotec aims to enhance productivity for various businesses across different sectors.

Trunk

Venture Round in 2018
Trunk Inc. is a Japanese company that specializes in personal storage solutions, allowing clients to conveniently store their belongings through a user-friendly app and web platform. Founded in 2014 and based in Shibuya-Ku, Trunk offers services that not only facilitate the storage of personal items but also enable users to sell unwanted goods and purchase items from others. In addition to its core storage services, the company is involved in advertising and design work, further diversifying its business model. Through its innovative approach, Trunk provides a platform for individuals to manage their possessions effectively while promoting a circular economy.

Gaia Japan

Venture Round in 2018
Gaia Inc. is a financial services company based in Chuo, Japan, established in 2017. It specializes in providing a cryptocurrency trading platform that facilitates virtual currency investments, including bitcoin. The company offers a unique follow-trade feature, allowing users to replicate the trades of successful investors easily. In addition to its trading platform, Gaia Inc. is involved in the development and operation of related digital services, including mobile applications and blockchain technologies, aimed at enhancing the user experience in the financial market.

Credit Engine

Seed Round in 2018
Credit Engine, founded in November 2018, is an innovative online lending service based in Japan, specializing in providing a lending platform for financial institutions. As a spinoff of LENDY, the company is unique in its offering, enabling banks and other financial entities to launch their own branded lending services with an advanced user interface and efficient operational processes. The platform is designed to facilitate real-time loan screening using a combination of sales data, bank data, and external online information, streamlining the borrowing process for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Credit Engine has garnered the trust of leading Japanese banks, including Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group and Mizuho Financial Group, making it a prominent player in the online lending sector.

Joyz

Series A in 2017
Joyz Inc. is a Tokyo-based company that develops a cloud application aimed at helping English learners improve their pronunciation and grammar. The application caters to various educational needs, offering support for English conversations tailored to specific situations and providing reference materials aligned with certified textbooks used in compulsory education. Joyz's commitment to enhancing language skills is evident in its user-focused approach, accommodating different learning requirements through accessible technology. The company maintains contact with users via phone and also has a physical location for direct interactions.

SPLYZA

Venture Round in 2017
SPLYZA Inc. is a technology company based in Hamamatsu City, Japan, focused on developing tools that assist amateur athletes in enhancing their performance across various sports, including windsurfing, basketball, golf, and snowboarding. Founded in 2011, SPLYZA offers a range of applications designed to facilitate video analysis and editing. Their products include Clipstro Golf, which captures golf swings and produces a visual swing trace, and Clipstro, an application for recording gameplay that transforms footage into analytical videos. Additionally, HaiLyts automatically identifies and highlights active scenes in video for easier editing, while spoch allows users to record, edit, and share sports content. SPLYZA also provides a Web API for advanced post-processing capabilities, enhancing the functionality of its tools. The company's platform prioritizes user privacy and team collaboration, allowing coaches and athletes to analyze footage effectively and strategize for improvement.

Safie

Seed Round in 2016
Safie is a technology company that specializes in cloud-based video asset management. It offers a platform that enables users to manage and integrate video content from various sources, including security cameras and IoT devices, for applications in security and surveillance, corporate operations, and marketing. Safie's primary business is the development and operation of this video-recording platform.

Dream Catcher

Venture Round in 2016
Dream Catcher Inc. is a consultancy based in Osaka, Japan, specializing in employment support services for the medical and nursing care sectors. The company provides a comprehensive range of services, including staffing and recruitment, medical communication, administrative support, and consulting for healthcare institutions. Additionally, Dream Catcher offers specialized services such as reinstatement consulting, outbound services, and medical interpreter services. By focusing on the unique needs of healthcare enterprises, Dream Catcher aims to facilitate effective talent acquisition and enhance operational efficiency within the medical and nursing care fields.

BitFlyer

Series C in 2016
BitFlyer, Inc. is a virtual currency exchange and blockchain development service provider based in Minato-ku, Japan. Established in 2014, it specializes in facilitating transactions in various digital currencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin, among others. BitFlyer offers a comprehensive platform that enables customers to buy, sell, and spend cryptocurrencies securely. It features multiple markets, including a Bitcoin marketplace and altcoin exchanges, along with advanced services such as an application programming interface for custom account management. Additionally, BitFlyer provides e-commerce payment solutions that allow businesses to accept Bitcoin, enhancing the overall trading experience. The company also operates fundFlyer, a crowdfunding platform designed to support projects through Bitcoin funding.

BitFlyer

Series B in 2015
BitFlyer, Inc. is a virtual currency exchange and blockchain development service provider based in Minato-ku, Japan. Established in 2014, it specializes in facilitating transactions in various digital currencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin, among others. BitFlyer offers a comprehensive platform that enables customers to buy, sell, and spend cryptocurrencies securely. It features multiple markets, including a Bitcoin marketplace and altcoin exchanges, along with advanced services such as an application programming interface for custom account management. Additionally, BitFlyer provides e-commerce payment solutions that allow businesses to accept Bitcoin, enhancing the overall trading experience. The company also operates fundFlyer, a crowdfunding platform designed to support projects through Bitcoin funding.

Cyberdyne

Venture Round in 2014
Cyberdyne Inc. is a Japanese company founded by Dr. Yoshiyuki Sankai from the University of Tsukuba, focusing on the research and development of advanced medical welfare equipment and systems. The company aims to enhance human capabilities through its innovative Robot Suit HAL®, which is designed for various applications including rehabilitation support, assistance for the elderly and disabled, disaster rescue, entertainment, and heavy labor tasks. Cyberdyne's product offerings include the Hybrid Assistive Limb (HAL) for lower limbs and single joints, along with lumbar support, a Table Interface, and cleaning robots. Additionally, the company provides services such as HAL therapy in the medical sector and non-medical services like HAL fit and Robo care, all contributing to improved quality of life and support in various fields.

Atonarp

Seed Round in 2012
Atonarp Inc. is a scientific instrumentation company based in Tokyo, Japan, with additional offices in Fremont, California, and Bengaluru, India. Founded in 2009, Atonarp specializes in the design and manufacture of advanced tools for molecular analysis, particularly in the pharmaceutical, semiconductor, petrochemical, and energy sectors. The company offers a range of products, including the AMS 1000, a cloud-connected and AI-enabled mass spectrometer capable of real-time chemical analysis, and the LyoSentinel, a miniaturized mass spectrometer focused on gas detection in lyophilization processes. Atonarp's innovative spectrometers enhance the monitoring of critical parameters, such as vacuum integrity and contamination, thereby ensuring compliance and process efficiency. By integrating advanced electronics and data processing algorithms, Atonarp aims to deliver significant improvements in cost, size, and accuracy for gas-composition analysis instruments.
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