Asahi Kasei

Asahi Kasei is a Japan-based conglomerate established in 1931 and headquartered in Tokyo. The company operates across multiple sectors, including chemicals and fibers, housing and construction materials, electronics, and healthcare. Its chemicals and fibers segment is the primary revenue generator, offering a range of products such as ammonia-based chemicals, synthetic resins, and cellulose fibers. The housing and construction segment focuses on residential building and thermal insulation materials. In electronics, Asahi Kasei supplies components like electronic compasses and lithium-ion battery separators. The healthcare segment specializes in medical devices, including dialyzers, therapeutic apheresis products, and blood purification solutions, with a strong presence in Europe through its subsidiary Asahi Kasei Medical Europe. The company is committed to innovation and the development of new pharmaceutical products, enhancing its global presence in the healthcare market.

Takashi Morishita Ph.D

Regional General Manager of Corporate Venture Capital

34 past transactions

CASTOR

Corporate Round in 2023
Castor Technologies Ltd. develops advanced 3D printing software that connects manufacturers with industrial 3D printing capabilities. Founded in 2017 and based in Tel Aviv, Israel, the company provides a comprehensive solution for assessing the application of industrial 3D printing in production processes. Its proprietary technology analyzes CAD files to identify opportunities for additive manufacturing, conducts geometry analyses, and evaluates the technical and economic viability of potential parts for advanced manufacturing. This software helps designers, new product introduction managers, and production engineers compare the costs of additive printing with traditional manufacturing methods, ultimately enabling manufacturers to save time and reduce costs while optimizing their production processes.

Multus

Series A in 2023
Multus Media enables cultivated meat companies to scale affordably and profitably. We take care of the growth media, so our customers can focus on bringing delicious, sustainable meat to the world. Taking a machine learning-based approach we can design a completely animal-free growth media that is tailored for animal cells. This is particularly useful for the cultivated meat industry where there are needs of high performance at large scale. Multus Media was established in 2019 and is headquartered in London, England.

JustLight

Seed Round in 2022
JustLight is a medical device company focused on developing innovative light-based technologies for health and wellness. Their primary products aim to treat joint and muscle pain through precise light wavelengths that promote healing and enhance cell function. Additionally, JustLight is exploring the potential of its technology for disinfecting surfaces and eliminating harmful pathogens. By utilizing photochemistry and biomechanics, the company has created skin-safe germicidal light that effectively sterilizes pathogens without the need for water or chemicals. Their patent-pending technology allows for automatic adjustments to the LED light output, ensuring that treatments are both effective and tailored to individual needs, providing users with the opportunity to manage their health in the comfort of their homes.

LUCA Science

Series B in 2022
Luca Science Inc. specializes in creating a new treatment using mitochondria, which is bioenergy itself. It is based in Japan.

OriCiro Genomics

Series B in 2022
OriCiro Genomics, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Minato-ku, Japan, founded in 2018. The company specializes in cell-free synthesis and amplification of large DNA molecules, providing innovative technologies for DNA assembly and circular DNA amplification. OriCiro's advancements enable the construction of substantial circular DNA without traditional biological cloning methods. The technology serves various sectors, including pharmaceuticals, diagnostics, food, and agriculture, by supporting applications in gene therapy and synthetic biology. OriCiro Genomics aims to enhance the Bioeconomy through its research and development efforts, offering solutions that cater to life science research and development companies.

HistoWiz

Series A in 2021
HistoWiz, Inc. is a histology service company based in Brooklyn, New York, that specializes in automating the processing and digitization of tissue samples for cancer research in both academia and the pharmaceutical industry. Established in 2012, HistoWiz operates a fully automated histology lab and features an innovative online pathologist network. The company processes, embeds, cuts, and stains mouse tissue specimens, which are then stored in PathologyMap, a cloud-based database. This platform serves as a valuable resource for cancer researchers by facilitating the integration of technology and the development of artificial intelligence tools for digital pathology. By enhancing data management and enabling efficient information exchange among medical scientists and research pathologists, HistoWiz aims to accelerate pathology-based research and contribute to the search for cures.

Plant Prefab

Series B in 2021
Plant Prefab specializes in the construction of custom single and multifamily homes, emphasizing sustainability and health. The company offers a patented prefabricated building system that streamlines the construction process, significantly reducing build time compared to traditional methods. By collaborating with individuals, architects, and small developers, Plant Prefab provides efficient solutions for those looking to realize their housing projects. Clients can choose to work with their own architects, select from a range of standard designs, or engage with the company's design partners. As the first home factory in the United States dedicated exclusively to sustainable practices, Plant Prefab focuses on minimizing the environmental impact of home construction, including energy, water, and resource usage. The firm aims to ensure that homes are built with durability in mind, promoting a healthy living environment for residents while also reducing disruptions typically associated with on-site construction.

Curreio

Venture Round in 2021
Curreio develops contract business for structural analysis using cryo-electron microscopy.

Glycomine

Series B in 2021
Glycomine, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in San Carlos, California, focused on developing nanomedicines for rare genetic disorders, particularly those related to protein and lipid glycosylation. Founded in 2014, Glycomine aims to address the significant unmet medical needs of patients suffering from approximately 7,000 rare disorders, many of which currently lack FDA-approved treatments. The company specializes in creating orphan drugs that combine replacement therapies—such as substrates, enzymes, and proteins—with innovative intracellular delivery systems. These bio-nano materials and ligands are designed to effectively target and deliver therapeutic molecules to the relevant cells in clinically significant organs, thereby enhancing treatment efficacy for patients with debilitating conditions caused by metabolic disorders and protein misfolding.

Pulmocide

Series C in 2021
Pulmocide Ltd is a London-based company established in 2007 that specializes in developing inhaled medicines aimed at treating serious viral and fungal infections of the respiratory tract. The company focuses on creating a new generation of antifungal drugs tailored for inhalation, which enhances the delivery of medication directly to the lungs while reducing systemic exposure. This targeted approach is designed to improve efficacy against respiratory aspergillosis and minimize systemic toxicities, thereby offering safe and effective treatment options for patients with acute and chronic respiratory diseases.

Super

Series C in 2021
Super Home Inc. offers a subscription-based service designed to assist homeowners with care and repair for their properties. Founded in 2014 and headquartered in San Francisco, California, the company serves members in Washington, DC, and Maryland. Super provides coverage for repairs and replacements of appliances and home systems that experience breakdowns. Users can conveniently access services through various devices, including desktop and mobile platforms. Additionally, Super's maintenance schedule helps homeowners understand their property's needs, ensuring they receive timely assistance without incurring high costs.

SolidBlock Ltd

Pre Seed Round in 2021
SolidBlock Ltd is a company that offers a comprehensive platform designed for real estate developers and fund managers to facilitate fundraising through digital securities. Founded in 2018 and headquartered in Jerusalem, Israel, SolidBlock focuses on the intersection of finance and real estate, providing innovative solutions in tokenization and fintech. The platform enables users to efficiently connect with investors, streamlining the process of raising capital for various real estate projects.

PeptiStar

Corporate Round in 2020
PeptiStar Inc., founded in 2017 and headquartered in Osaka, Japan, specializes in the development and manufacturing of peptide medicines. As a Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO), PeptiStar offers a range of services for peptide active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), including traditional and advanced forms such as macrocyclic and stapled peptides that incorporate non-natural amino acids. The company focuses on innovative manufacturing technologies to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of peptide therapeutics, thereby supporting the pharmaceutical industry in accelerating drug development. Through its commitment to open innovation, PeptiStar aims to deliver high value-added services to its clients, contributing significantly to advancements in peptide medicine.

Aryballe

Series B in 2020
Aryballe Technologies SA, founded in 2014 and based in Grenoble, France, specializes in the development of advanced sensors and technologies for the identification, measurement, and representation of smells and tastes. The company produces a range of innovative products, including the eNose, an embedded sensor for odor identification, and the NeOse Pro, a universal odor detection device that utilizes proprietary O-Cell technology to replicate the human sense of smell. Additionally, Aryballe's O-Cell biosensor captures odor patterns, while its Solgel pellet sensor reacts to sulfurous gases. By integrating biochemistry, advanced optics, and machine learning, Aryballe's digital olfaction sensors serve various industries such as food and beverage, cosmetics, and automotive, enhancing decision-making in research and development, quality control, and user experience.

Rapid Micro Biosystems

Venture Round in 2020
Rapid Micro Biosystems provides products for the detection of microbial contamination in the manufacture of pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and personal care products. It offers the Growth Direct System, a non-destructive method for microbial enumeration. The company was formerly known as Genomic Profiling Systems and changed its name to Rapid Micro Biosystems in 2007. Rapid Micro Biosystems was founded in 2006 and is based in Bedford, Massachusetts.

UltraSense Systems

Series B in 2020
UltraSense Systems, Inc. develops integrated 3D ultrasound sensor solutions aimed at enhancing user interaction with technology. The company offers TouchPoint sensors that enable low-power user interfaces capable of detecting touch and force through various materials and thicknesses using its patented 3D ultrasound technology. These sensors are applicable across multiple sectors, including smartphones, consumer electronics, home appliances, automotive, industrial, and medical markets, allowing for precise and localized buttonless interfaces. Founded in 2017 and headquartered in San Jose, California, UltraSense Systems also provides a development kit to facilitate the integration of its technology. Products are distributed through various channels, making them accessible for a wide array of applications.

Veloxis

Acquisition in 2019
Veloxis Pharmaceuticals A/S is a specialty pharmaceutical company dedicated to improving the lives of transplant patients through the development and commercialization of targeted medications. The company focuses on Envarsus XR, a once-daily tacrolimus tablet designed to prevent organ rejection in kidney transplant recipients. Envarsus XR has demonstrated non-inferiority to the market-leading immunosuppressant, Prograf, in key clinical trials. Veloxis employs its proprietary MeltDose technology to enhance the absorption and bioavailability of orally administered drugs, which has been validated through clinical studies and is also used in the formulation of Envarsus. Founded in 2002 as a spin-off from H. Lundbeck A/S, Veloxis is headquartered in Copenhagen, Denmark, and operates a subsidiary in the United States. The company has received regulatory approvals for Envarsus XR in both the European Union and the United States, underscoring its commitment to addressing the needs of transplant patients.

AiCure

Series C in 2019
AiCure, LLC is a technology company that specializes in medication adherence and intelligent medical assistant solutions, utilizing a visual recognition platform to monitor patient progress via mobile devices. The company's software confirms medication ingestion, particularly in clinical trials and high-risk populations, by identifying both patients and medications while detecting issues such as diversion and duplicate enrollments. It captures evidence of medication ingestion for immediate intervention and long-term adherence tracking. AiCure's platform incorporates advanced data analytics, including patented facial recognition and motion-sensing technology, to link patient behavior with treatment outcomes. This innovative approach aims to enhance healthcare delivery systems by improving treatment efficacy and reducing risks. Founded in 2009 and based in New York, AiCure has established a strategic partnership with Syneos Health to further advance its solutions.

Integral Geometry Science

Venture Round in 2019
Integral Geometry Science Inc., founded in 2012 and based in Kobe, Japan, specializes in the design and development of measurement devices and software for image data processing. The company focuses on the inverse analysis theory of electromagnetic and scattered fields, particularly through its innovative microwave mammography system. This technology effectively addresses the challenges associated with scattering microwaves in high-density breasts, producing clear images that assist healthcare professionals in accurately distinguishing between cancerous and normal tissue. By providing a more reliable imaging solution, Integral Geometry Science aims to reduce unnecessary pain and radiation exposure for patients compared to traditional screening methods. Additionally, the company manufactures a nondestructive inspection system specifically for lithium-ion batteries.

Glycomine

Series B in 2019
Glycomine, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in San Carlos, California, focused on developing nanomedicines for rare genetic disorders, particularly those related to protein and lipid glycosylation. Founded in 2014, Glycomine aims to address the significant unmet medical needs of patients suffering from approximately 7,000 rare disorders, many of which currently lack FDA-approved treatments. The company specializes in creating orphan drugs that combine replacement therapies—such as substrates, enzymes, and proteins—with innovative intracellular delivery systems. These bio-nano materials and ligands are designed to effectively target and deliver therapeutic molecules to the relevant cells in clinically significant organs, thereby enhancing treatment efficacy for patients with debilitating conditions caused by metabolic disorders and protein misfolding.

Laminate Medical

Series C in 2019
Laminate Medical Technologies Ltd. is focused on enhancing vascular access for hemodialysis patients through innovative medical devices. Founded in 2012 and based in Tel Aviv, Israel, the company has developed the VasQ Device, which serves as an external support system for arteriovenous fistulas. This device is implanted during the surgical creation of the fistula and is designed to alleviate wall tension and regulate the geometry of the vein, addressing common issues such as narrowing and blockages that can occur in the first year post-surgery. By improving the patency rates of fistulas, Laminate Medical aims to significantly reduce the annual failure rate of these vascular accesses, thereby minimizing complications related to kidney failure, the need for re-interventions, and the overall healthcare costs associated with vascular access complications.

SAGE Automotive Interiors

Acquisition in 2018
SAGE Automotive Interiors, Inc. specializes in designing, developing, and manufacturing automotive interior solutions for various vehicle types, including cars, trucks, and SUVs. The company offers a range of interior fabrics used in seats, headliners, door panels, and consoles, catering to the needs of automotive manufacturers globally. Founded in 2009 and headquartered in Greenville, South Carolina, SAGE operates additional facilities in North America, Brazil, China, Europe, India, Japan, Korea, and Thailand. Formerly known as Milliken Automotive Division, it is now a subsidiary of Asahi Kasei Corporation. SAGE Automotive Interiors is recognized for its innovative designs and engineering capabilities, providing high-quality products and services to enhance the automotive interior experience.

Atox Bio

Series F in 2017
Atox Bio Inc. is a biotechnology company established in 2003, based in Ness Ziona, Israel, with an additional office in North Carolina. The company specializes in developing immunomodulators aimed at treating critically ill patients suffering from acute and life-threatening conditions due to severe infections and inflammation. Atox Bio focuses on novel modulators of the immune response that target interconnected pathways of both the adaptive and innate immune systems, which are crucial in addressing infectious diseases, inflammatory diseases, and ischemia/reperfusion injuries.

Xeris Biopharma

Series C in 2017
Xeris Biopharma is a specialty pharmaceutical company focused on developing and commercializing ready-to-use injectable and infusible drug formulations. Utilizing its proprietary XeriSol and XeriJect technology platforms, the company delivers highly concentrated, liquid-stable formulations of peptides, small molecules, and proteins through various delivery methods, including syringes and auto-injectors. Xeris Biopharma's lead product is Gvoke, a ready-to-use glucagon for treating severe hypoglycemia, while its other products include Keveyis, the first FDA-approved treatment for primary periodic paralysis, and Recorlev, approved for endogenous hypercortisolemia in Cushing's Syndrome. The company is also advancing several product candidates in clinical trials, targeting conditions in endocrinology, neurology, and gastroenterology. Founded in 2005 and headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, Xeris Biopharma aims to improve patient care by providing easier-to-use therapies that enhance treatment outcomes.

Aryballe

Seed Round in 2016
Aryballe Technologies SA, founded in 2014 and based in Grenoble, France, specializes in the development of advanced sensors and technologies for the identification, measurement, and representation of smells and tastes. The company produces a range of innovative products, including the eNose, an embedded sensor for odor identification, and the NeOse Pro, a universal odor detection device that utilizes proprietary O-Cell technology to replicate the human sense of smell. Additionally, Aryballe's O-Cell biosensor captures odor patterns, while its Solgel pellet sensor reacts to sulfurous gases. By integrating biochemistry, advanced optics, and machine learning, Aryballe's digital olfaction sensors serve various industries such as food and beverage, cosmetics, and automotive, enhancing decision-making in research and development, quality control, and user experience.

Arcterus

Series B in 2016
Arcterus Co., Ltd. is a company based in Setagaya-Ku, Japan, founded in 2010. It specializes in developing a digital notebook application designed for students to upload and share class notes, enhancing their learning experience. The application also includes assessment tools tailored for both teachers and students, facilitating a more interactive educational environment. Additionally, Arcterus operates a tutoring center, further supporting students in their academic pursuits. The company's approach incorporates adaptive learning techniques to optimize the educational experience based on individual learning styles, leveraging technology and big data to provide personalized guidance and support.

Axine

Series B in 2016
Axine Water Technologies is a Vancouver-based developer of wastewater treatment technologies and solutions established by founder and Chief Engineer, Colleen Legzdins. They’re specifically focused on overcoming the complex, expensive, and often ineffective nature of today’s incumbent wastewater systems by developing low-cost, energy-efficient solutions for treating dissolved organic pollutants such as phenols, aromatics, acids, dyes, PHPs, dioxins, and pharmaceuticals that enable industrial and municipal customers to reduce costs and improve performance of their wastewater treatment. Their solutions are based on a proprietary electrolytic oxidation technology that treats high concentrations (up to 5000 mg/L COD) of toxic organics, biodegradable organics, ammonia, pathogens, and some inorganics in a single step without chemicals and without producing sludge.

Mirexus Inc.

Series A in 2015
Mirexus Inc. is a Canadian company based in Guelph that specializes in developing sustainable nanoparticles for various applications, including personal care, nutraceuticals, specialty foods, and pharmaceuticals. Founded in 2008, the company commercializes PHYTOSPHERIX, a natural biopolymer identical to glycogen, which enhances the formulation of longer-lasting personal care products and improves the shelf life of specialty materials. The versatile technology, derived from research at the University of Guelph, enables the development of products such as moisturizers, sunscreens, hyaluronic acid replacements, dermal fillers, dry color cosmetics, and hair conditioners. Mirexus Inc. is actively pursuing partnerships with industry stakeholders to create innovative solutions utilizing its unique technology.

Polypore International

Acquisition in 2015
Polypore International specializes in the development, manufacturing, and marketing of polymer-based microporous membranes utilized in various separation and filtration processes. The company boasts a diverse portfolio that includes polypropylene and polyethylene monolayer and multilayer membrane separators specifically designed for lithium batteries, which are integral to consumer electronics like mobile phones, laptops, and power tools. Additionally, Polypore’s separation media segment offers membranes and modules for healthcare, industrial, and specialty filtration applications. The company's growth is driven by rising global demands for portable energy solutions and the need for high-performance filtration to ensure product purity.

Zoll Data

Acquisition in 2012
ZOLL Medical Corporation, a part of the Asahi Kasei Group, specializes in developing and marketing medical devices and software solutions aimed at enhancing emergency care and improving clinical efficiency. The company offers a diverse range of products including defibrillators, monitoring systems, CPR feedback devices, and data management tools. Additionally, ZOLL provides technologies for fluid resuscitation and therapeutic temperature management. These solutions are designed for use by clinicians, emergency medical services, fire professionals, and lay rescuers, enabling them to effectively treat patients requiring resuscitation and acute critical care. By integrating advanced technology into emergency response, ZOLL plays a critical role in saving lives and improving patient outcomes.

Crystal IS

Acquisition in 2012
Crystal IS specializes in the production of ultraviolet light emitting diodes (UV LEDs) utilizing single-crystal aluminum nitride (AlN) substrate technology. As a leader in this field, the company focuses on creating high-performance UVC LEDs designed for water, surface, and air purification applications. Their products cater to a wide range of sectors, including consumer and commercial appliances, medical devices, and life sciences. By emphasizing energy efficiency and durability, Crystal IS enables its clients to enhance their production with effective disinfection solutions.

Envia Systems

Series C in 2011
Envia Systems specializes in developing advanced lithium-ion batteries that offer high energy density at a lower cost. By combining innovative high-energy electrodes, the company produces batteries suitable for clean energy applications, including electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles, and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. Their technology aims to enhance the performance of energy storage solutions, facilitating the broader adoption of sustainable energy systems.

Crystal IS

Venture Round in 2010
Crystal IS specializes in the production of ultraviolet light emitting diodes (UV LEDs) utilizing single-crystal aluminum nitride (AlN) substrate technology. As a leader in this field, the company focuses on creating high-performance UVC LEDs designed for water, surface, and air purification applications. Their products cater to a wide range of sectors, including consumer and commercial appliances, medical devices, and life sciences. By emphasizing energy efficiency and durability, Crystal IS enables its clients to enhance their production with effective disinfection solutions.

Artisan Pharma

Series B in 2010
Artisan Pharma, Inc., a biopharmaceutical company, provides critical-care and hospital-based therapeutics to patients, treating physicians, and payors in the United States and internationally. It offers ART-123, a novel, recombinant, and soluble thrombomodulin for the treatment of disseminated intravascular coagulation in sepsis. The company offers its products in Japan, China, Taiwan, and Korea. It has a strategic manufacturing alliance with A-Bio Pharma Pte Ltd. Artisan Pharma, Inc. was formerly known as Artisan Therapeutics, Inc. and changed its name to Artisan Pharma, Inc. in September 2006. The company was founded in 2006 and is headquartered in Waltham, Massachusetts.
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