Mitsubishi UFJ Capital

Mitsubishi UFJ Capital Co., Ltd. is a Tokyo-based venture capital firm established in 1974, specializing in seed, development stage, and start-up investments. The firm focuses primarily on the Japanese market, investing in sectors such as healthcare, biotechnology, information technology, electronics, and high technology. Mitsubishi UFJ Capital actively participates in investment syndications for Japanese investments and aims to support companies with relevance to the Japanese market. The firm operates additional offices in Osaka and Nagoya, enhancing its reach within Japan. It manages several venture capital funds, including those targeting drug discovery and life sciences.

Takashi Hasegawa

Managing Director

Yoshirou Matsuoka

Managing Director

Past deals in Japan

Vark

Series C in 2023
ActEvolve develops Blitz Freak, a multi virtual reality game. It began operation in 2017, with its headquarters in Tokyo in Japan.

Rehab

Series C in 2021
Rehab for Japan Co., Ltd. is a Tokyo-based company that specializes in providing Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) solutions for nursing care facilities. Established in 2016, the company focuses on developing a unique rehabilitation platform specifically designed for day service operations. Through its cloud support services, Rehab for Japan aims to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of rehabilitation processes in nursing care establishments, addressing the growing demand for innovative healthcare solutions in the region.

GiXo Ltd.

Venture Round in 2021
GiXo Ltd. is a Tokyo-based consulting firm established in 2012 that specializes in marketing solutions through the application of technology and big data analytics. The company focuses on providing analysis support services to address business challenges, employing data-informed methodologies to enhance decision-making processes. GiXo engages in research and development of various consulting services and tools, leveraging advanced analytics to deliver tailored solutions that meet the needs of its clients.

JCG

Series B in 2021
JCG Co., Ltd., an e-sports event company, operates and manages a gaming tournament site. Its activities include e-sports events (online tournament planning and management); event planning and operation with white label; promotion consulting utilizing e-sports; delivery studio rental; cloud management of online tournament system; and video production and editing. It serves game publishers and corporations. The company was founded in 2013 and is based in Tokyo, Japan.

Cake.jp

Venture Round in 2021
Cake.jp Co., Ltd. owns and operates online cake delivery portal. The company delivers cake for individual birthdays, anniversary celebrations, corporate events, parties, and welfare. The company was founded in 2009 and is based in Tokyo, Japan.

Tsubame BHB

Funding Round in 2020
Tsubame BHB Co., Ltd., founded in 2017 and based in Tokyo, Japan, specializes in researching, developing, manufacturing, and supplying on-site ammonia production systems and catalysts. The company focuses on innovative solutions that enhance the efficiency and sustainability of ammonia production, thereby contributing to various industrial applications. Tsubame BHB aims to meet the growing demand for ammonia in a way that aligns with environmental standards and supports the transition to cleaner energy sources.
Japan Data Science Consortium Co. is a Tokyo-based company specializing in artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, and robotics. Founded in 2014, it offers a range of services including demand forecasting, predictive maintenance, digital transformation, optical character recognition, and image recognition. The company focuses on providing solutions tailored to the medical, education, and retail sectors, aiming to facilitate significant profit impact through comprehensive consulting. JDSC supports clients from system construction to corporate process transformation, ensuring the effective integration of AI technologies into their operations.

IB

Seed Round in 2020
IB Inc. is a fintech company based in Tokyo, Japan, established in 2018. It specializes in developing applications that facilitate the management of insurance policies. The company's platform enables users to oversee multiple insurance policies simultaneously and offers reminders for premium payments, helping to ensure that users do not miss important insurance claims. Through its innovative approach, IB Inc. aims to enhance the efficiency of insurance management for its clients.

J-Pharma

Series D in 2020
J-Pharma Co., Ltd. develops therapeutics and diagnostic agents for treatment of cancer. The company was founded in 2005 and is based in Yokohama, Japan.

Ginkan

Series A in 2020
GINKAN is the managing company of SynchroLife, the world's first restaurant recommendation platform where users and can earn cryptocurrency token rewards for dining out and posting restaurant reviews. GINKAN was selected for Plug and Play Japan Batch 1 in the fintech category and we won for best domestic fintech company and won the audience award at the Plug and Play Japan Batch 1 EXPO (Demo Day) in September 2018. GINKAN was also selected for Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group’s MUFG Digital Accelerator’s Batch 4 and won the Grand Prix, Audience Award, and AWS Award in a triple win on their demo day on July 26, 2019.

Theoria

Seed Round in 2020
Theoria, Inc. operates finance consulting question and answer site Okane answer. The company was founded in 2018 and is based in Tokyo, Japan.

Vark

Series A in 2019
ActEvolve develops Blitz Freak, a multi virtual reality game. It began operation in 2017, with its headquarters in Tokyo in Japan.
The Japan Medical Device Development Organization aims to activate Japan's medical innovation and medical device industry, centering on the medical device incubation business, and aim for Japan to become a world leader in this field.Japanese Organization for Medical Device Development is a country of craftsmanship, possesses high technical and quality control skills, and should be good at producing medical equipment. However, in the medical device field, imports exceed 600 billion yen every year. Japan's “manufacturing” technology has not been fully utilized.

Shokunin-san.com

Venture Round in 2018
Shokunin-san.com, Inc. is a company based in Kobe, Japan, specializing in the retail of personal computers and peripheral equipment. In addition to its retail operations, the company focuses on developing regional information services primarily for the construction industry. It operates a portal site designed to support craftsmen and construction workers, providing valuable resources and information tailored to their needs. The company also offers planning and management services for internet-based information and communication, including homepage development and server management.

Vark

Series A in 2018
ActEvolve develops Blitz Freak, a multi virtual reality game. It began operation in 2017, with its headquarters in Tokyo in Japan.

TANGOYA

Venture Round in 2018
Tangoya Co., Ltd. is a company based in Osaka, Japan, that specializes in the management of specialty shops focused on custom-made suits and shirts, as well as the sale of various clothing items. Founded in 1949, the company provides a range of suit and coat fabrics and engages in wholesale activities for both men's and women's apparel. Additionally, Tangoya operates a restaurant that serves espresso coffee. The company also has a branch located in Tokyo, Japan, further extending its reach in the retail and food service sectors.

Vark

Seed Round in 2018
ActEvolve develops Blitz Freak, a multi virtual reality game. It began operation in 2017, with its headquarters in Tokyo in Japan.

KIYO Learning

Venture Round in 2018
KIYO Learning Co.,Ltd. engages in planning, production, sale, and operation of educational content and services for business people in Japan. The company was founded in 2010 and is headquartered in Tokyo, Japan.

EXest

Seed Round in 2018
EXest is a Tokyo-based startup focused on promoting inbound travel to Japan. The company operates the WOW U platform, which connects international visitors with licensed interpreters and tour guides, facilitating a more enriching travel experience. In addition, EXest offers WOWU-media, a service that shares video clips on social media to showcase must-visit attractions and popular local souvenirs, enhancing potential tourists' awareness of Japan. By revitalizing local regions through increased tourism, EXest not only links foreign travelers with knowledgeable local guides but also provides media management services and educational resources for those guides, fostering a deeper connection between visitors and the unique offerings of Japan.

TRUNK inc.

Venture Round in 2018
TRUNK inc. provides a monthly personal storage service in Japan. The company allows its clients to apply from its app or web platform to store their personal goods; and allows them to sell the unwanted things that they have deposited or buy items from others. It also engages in advertising agency and design work businesses. TRUNK inc. was founded in 2014 and is based in Shibuya-Ku, Japan.

Yolo Japan

Venture Round in 2017
Yolo Japan Corporation is an online job listing platform catering to foreign nationals residing in Japan, offering a variety of full-time and part-time employment opportunities. Established in 2004 and headquartered in Osaka, with an additional office in Tokyo, the company also operates YOLO BASE, a working inbound facility designed for foreign residents and locals. Additionally, Yolo Japan provides community English conversation services for children, helping to enhance language skills among younger learners. The company aims to facilitate integration and support for international students, residents, and visitors in Japan through its diverse services.

KYSHOW

Venture Round in 2017
KYSHOW CORPORATION operates sea food retail stores. The company was founded in 1994 and is based in Osaka, Japan.

hey, Inc.

Venture Round in 2017
hey, Inc. integrates, plans, develops, and manages e-commerce portals and businesses. The company was founded in 2012 and is based in Tokyo, Japan.

Cellspect

Series B in 2017
Cellspect Co., Ltd specializes in the development, manufacturing and sales of medical equipments. It was founded on April 2014 and is based in Japan.

Mitsufuji

Venture Round in 2017
Mitsufuji Corporation manufactures a silver plated yarn that has electric field, electro static discharge, anti-bacterial, and thermal effects. It can be used in knitted and woven fabrics. The company was founded in 1956 and is headquartered in Kyoto, Japan.

KIYO Learning

Venture Round in 2017
KIYO Learning Co.,Ltd. engages in planning, production, sale, and operation of educational content and services for business people in Japan. The company was founded in 2010 and is headquartered in Tokyo, Japan.

JITSUBO

Venture Round in 2016
Jitsubo Co., Ltd. engages in the development, manufacturing, and commercialization of peptides that modify amino acid sequence for the creation of physical, chemical, and pharmacological properties. The company was founded in 2005 and is based in Koganei, Japan. As of December 26, 2014, Jitsubo Co., Ltd. operates as a subsidiary of Sosei Group Corporation.

Y's

Venture Round in 2016
Y's, Inc. owns and operates rehabilitation facilities for people with cerebrovascular disorder. The company also operates acupuncture osteopathic institute, relaxation salon, visiting massage facilities. The company was founded in 2014 and is headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. As of August 30, 2018, Y's, Inc. operates as a subsidiary of M3, Inc.

TRUNK inc.

Venture Round in 2016
TRUNK inc. provides a monthly personal storage service in Japan. The company allows its clients to apply from its app or web platform to store their personal goods; and allows them to sell the unwanted things that they have deposited or buy items from others. It also engages in advertising agency and design work businesses. TRUNK inc. was founded in 2014 and is based in Shibuya-Ku, Japan.

Mu Lab Inc.

Venture Round in 2016
Mu Lab Inc. is a company based in Fukushima, Japan, specializing in the design and development of advanced robotic technologies. The firm focuses on creating innovative robotic solutions to meet various needs in different sectors. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, Mu Lab aims to push the boundaries of robotics and enhance the capabilities of machines for practical applications.

J-ARM

Venture Round in 2016
J-ARM Co.Ltd. is engage in cell therapy; introduction and support of regenerative medicine; and research and development of cell culture. The company is based in Osaka, Japan.

Renewable Japan

Venture Round in 2015
Renewable Japan Co., Ltd. engages in solar and wind power, small hydropower, equipment import, consulting, and fund management businesses. It offers project management services; construction, operation, and management of power plants; grid connection negotiation with the utility companies; applications for permissions/licenses to power plants; and financing services to power plants. The company was founded in 2012 and is based in Tokyo, Japan.

Gengo

Series C in 2015
Gengo, Inc. operates a translation platform that provides professional human translation services in Japan and internationally. It allows individuals and businesses to connect with the company’s community of pre-tested translators, and order text or files to be translated through its Website or API. The company offers its services to Ecommerce, travel, and media companies, enabling them to publish their content, including product descriptions, user reviews, comments, and tweets in various languages. Gengo, Inc. was founded in 2008 and is based in San Mateo, California. As of December 31, 2018, Gengo, Inc. operates as a subsidiary of Lionbridge Technologies, Inc..

Hirosaki

Seed Round in 2014
Hirosaki Co., Ltd. specializes in the manufacturing and sales of apple products. It is based in Japan.

JTOWER

Venture Round in 2014
JTOWER Inc. is a Tokyo-based company that specializes in infrastructure sharing services in Japan. Founded in June 2012, the firm focuses on designing and constructing information communication infrastructure, developing communications-related solutions, and providing various information communications services. JTOWER offers a range of products, including in-building infrastructure sharing, cloud-managed Wi-Fi services, and outdoor tower sharing. The company's services cater to landlords, mobile network operators, and local 5G needs, along with site locator systems. As a subsidiary of Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corporation, JTOWER plays a crucial role in enhancing communication infrastructure across the region.

iHeart Japan

Series A in 2014
iHeart Japan Corporation was established to realize an innovative next-generation therapy that can replace heart transplantation by applying technology developed by Prof. Jun K Yamashita of Center for iPS cell Research and Application.

Monstar Lab

Venture Round in 2014
Monstar Lab, Inc. is a software development firm headquartered in Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, specializing in creating software solutions for consumers. Founded in 2006, the company offers a range of services including project planning, market analysis, design, mobile application and web service development, website design, business applications, mobile games, and legacy migration. Additionally, Monstar Lab provides technology for wearable applications, web marketing, and product localization. With more than 1,200 engineers and creators, the firm operates in 26 cities across 15 countries, including Japan, China, Singapore, the Philippines, Bangladesh, Vietnam, Denmark, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, the Czech Republic, Germany, and Thailand. Monstar Lab emphasizes access to top talent and specialists worldwide, leveraging its diverse expertise to deliver effective solutions and empower innovators globally.

gumi

Series H in 2014
gumi Inc. is a mobile entertainment content publisher and developer based in Tokyo, Japan, founded in 2007 by CEO Hironao Kunimitsu. The company specializes in creating and publishing online games for mobile platforms, achieving notable success both in Japan and internationally, particularly with its flagship title, Brave Frontier. gumi has expanded its operations beyond Japan, establishing subsidiaries in Asia, Europe, and North America. In addition to its core gaming business, gumi is involved in blockchain technology and the XR sector, which includes virtual reality, augmented reality, and mixed reality applications. The company collaborates with renowned partners such as SEGA and LINE to enhance its offerings and deliver high-quality entertainment experiences to users around the world.

Aiming

Venture Round in 2014
Aiming Inc. is a Japanese company founded in 2011 and headquartered in Tokyo, specializing in the production and development of online games for various platforms, including PCs, browsers, smartphones, and home consoles. With a dedicated team of over 200 members, Aiming focuses on creating browser-based and social games, leveraging over a decade of experience in the online gaming industry. The company has developed a diverse library of titles, including Browser Three Kingdoms, Sengoku IXA, and Hero Quest, and is recognized for its notable release of Blade Chronicle, a 3D-MMORPG. Aiming aims to capitalize on the rapid growth of mobile technology and the increasing demand for accessible gaming experiences, positioning itself for success in the global gaming market.

Tokyo Otaku Mode

Series A in 2014
Tokyo Otaku Mode Inc. operates a platform for Japanese otaku news and content. It distributes otaku content, including anime, manga, event reports, news, and others. The company operates otakumode.com that provides user-generated content of otaku related artwork, cosplay photos, and others; and publishes Japanese otaku news articles in English. The company was founded in 2011 and is based in Portland, Oregon with a branch in Mitaka-shi, Japan.

Quan

Seed Round in 2013
Quan Inc. develops content for smartphone applications and web. The company develops characters contents such as Betakkuma, Sugar Cubs, Business Fish, Piyomaru, sticker shop for au Smartpass, Mr.Egg, Elice, Kawaii Kaomoji Book, handwritten stickers, AIS MystickerShop and game contents that includes emotipon. The company offers characters for mobile carriers, chatting applications and platforms of Japan and Southeast Asian nations. Quan Inc. was founded in 2011 and is based in Tokyo, Japan.

RareJob

Venture Round in 2013
Rarejob is an online platform that offers English learning services for individual and corporate needs. Its operations are based in Shibuya, Japan.

Smart Education

Venture Round in 2012
Smart Education, Ltd., founded in 2011 and based in Tokyo, Japan, specializes in developing educational applications for smartphones and tablets. The company focuses on creating tools for intellectual training, with a notable product being the "Rhythm Book" app. This interactive music application allows children to engage with over 100 songs from television, cartoons, and nursery rhymes in both English and Japanese. Through the app, kids can learn rhythm by tapping instruments while enjoying studio-recorded music. "Rhythm Book" is designed to facilitate co-play between parents and children, enhancing the learning experience. Users can also purchase additional songs online, which can be shared using the same Apple ID via iCloud.

gumi

Series F in 2011
gumi Inc. is a mobile entertainment content publisher and developer based in Tokyo, Japan, founded in 2007 by CEO Hironao Kunimitsu. The company specializes in creating and publishing online games for mobile platforms, achieving notable success both in Japan and internationally, particularly with its flagship title, Brave Frontier. gumi has expanded its operations beyond Japan, establishing subsidiaries in Asia, Europe, and North America. In addition to its core gaming business, gumi is involved in blockchain technology and the XR sector, which includes virtual reality, augmented reality, and mixed reality applications. The company collaborates with renowned partners such as SEGA and LINE to enhance its offerings and deliver high-quality entertainment experiences to users around the world.

gumi

Venture Round in 2011
gumi Inc. is a mobile entertainment content publisher and developer based in Tokyo, Japan, founded in 2007 by CEO Hironao Kunimitsu. The company specializes in creating and publishing online games for mobile platforms, achieving notable success both in Japan and internationally, particularly with its flagship title, Brave Frontier. gumi has expanded its operations beyond Japan, establishing subsidiaries in Asia, Europe, and North America. In addition to its core gaming business, gumi is involved in blockchain technology and the XR sector, which includes virtual reality, augmented reality, and mixed reality applications. The company collaborates with renowned partners such as SEGA and LINE to enhance its offerings and deliver high-quality entertainment experiences to users around the world.

MonotaRO Co., Ltd.

Venture Round in 2003
MonotaRO Co., Ltd., together with its subsidiaries, operates an online MRO products store in Japan, Korea, China, Indonesia, and internationally. It offers products for manufacturing, construction, and automotive industries. The company was formerly known as Sumisho Grainger Co., Ltd. and changed its name to MonotaRO Co., Ltd. in February 2006. MonotaRO Co., Ltd. was founded in 2000 and is headquartered in Amagasaki, Japan.

MonotaRO Co., Ltd.

Venture Round in 2002
MonotaRO Co., Ltd., together with its subsidiaries, operates an online MRO products store in Japan, Korea, China, Indonesia, and internationally. It offers products for manufacturing, construction, and automotive industries. The company was formerly known as Sumisho Grainger Co., Ltd. and changed its name to MonotaRO Co., Ltd. in February 2006. MonotaRO Co., Ltd. was founded in 2000 and is headquartered in Amagasaki, Japan.

Excite Japan

Venture Round in 2001
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.

Golf Digest Online

Venture Round in 2001
Golf digest online is an online golf store that provides service to Japan, and sells golf gear, apparel, and accessories.

Dejima

Series B in 2000
Dejima delivers revolutionary software solutions that enable people to interact with computerized content using their own words -- freed from using codes, commands and menus. Dejima Direct(TM) solutions provide the ability to request information and execute productivity tasks in their own words over email, wireless messaging, web or speech. Founded in 1998, Dejima is headquartered in San Jose, California, and operates subsidiaries in Paris and Tokyo.