Eight Roads

Eight Roads is a global venture capital firm that operates as the proprietary investment arm of Fidelity International Limited. Founded in 1969, the firm has a strong presence in multiple regions, including Europe, Israel, China, India, Japan, and the United States. Eight Roads focuses on investing in early to growth-stage technology companies, particularly in sectors such as healthcare IT, financial services, software as a service (SaaS), and consumer technology. The firm typically invests between $1.29 million and $30 million, often taking minority stakes and seeking board representation in its portfolio companies. With offices in London, Hong Kong, and various cities across Asia, Eight Roads aims to support innovative companies poised for market success, leveraging its extensive network and industry expertise.

Umang Agarwal

Senior Associate

Aishwarya Arunkumar

Senior Associate

Hiroki Ashida

Senior Associate

Daniel Auerbach

Senior Managing Partner & Head of Global Ventures

Vytautas Balsys

Partner

Bence Banhalmi

Analyst

Helena Barman

Investor

Virginia Bassano

Investor

John Behrendt

Head of Principal Investments

Daniel Benjamin

Investor

Reda Bensaid

Analyst

Ayush Bhargava

Senior Associate

Shweta Bhatia

Partner

Rong Cai

Investment Director

Betty Cai

Partner

James Cartwright

Vice President

Arvind Chari

Vice President

Ted Chua

Senior Partner

Lucile Cornet

Partner

Richard Ding

Associate

Raj Dugar

Managing Partner, India

Martin Ericsson

vice_president

Sergio Ferrarini

Principal

Tamina Fogelberg

Investor

Luciana Germinario

Chief Finance Officer

Antonin Gury-Coupier

Investor

Davor Hebel

Managing Partner & Head of Europe

Brian Hershey

Associate

April Hu

Senior Associate

Allen Huo

Vice President

Momota Imai

Associate

Kristina Isherwood

Chief Financial Officer

Abhishek Jain

Senior Associate

Cyrus Jilla

Chief Executive Officer and President

Murata Junichi

Partner

Michiko Kohyama

Senior Associate

Shinichiro Komoto

Partner

Kavish Kothari

Principal

Lillian Li

Investor

Thomas Lin

Senior Associate

Xin Lin

Partner

Rebecca Lin

Senior Partner

Xin Liu

Partner

Allen Liu

Associate

James Lowther

Director

Jessica Lu

Vice President, Portfolio Management

Joshua Maxey

Senior Associate

Maneesh Menon

VP

Sophie Meralli

Senior Associate

Chersy Miao

Senior Associate

David Milstein

Managing Partner & Head of Japan

Shigeyuki Minoshiro

Associate

Moriam Mustapha

Senior Associate

Noriko Nakao

Senior Associate

Jens Neisius

vice_president

Angel Ng

Associate, Portfolio Management

Dave Ng

Head of Southeast Asia

Dan O'Toole

Vice President

Yosuke Ouchi

Vice President

Prem Pavoor

Partner and Head of India

Alexandra Prescot

Investor

Delphine Qiu

VP

Eyal Rabinovich

Investor

Vishap Rana

Senior Associate

Laura Salesse

Investor

Xiao Shen

Principal

Shawn Shen

Vice President

Lei Shi

Vice President

Prakhar Singh

Vice President

Michael Stephanblome

Venture Partner

Liena Suzuki

Vice President

Aditya Gurunath Systla

Partner

Emily Tam

Finance Director, Asia

Michael Treskow

Partner

Joseph Trinh

Chief Talent Partner

Jarlon Tsang

Managing Partner & Head of China

Ashish Venkataramani

Partner

Simon Wang

Associate

He Wang

Associate

Nancy Xu

Senior Associate

Cody Yin

Principal

Alston Zecha

Partner

Haoming Zhang

Senior Associate

Ju Zhang

Partner

Gordon Zhang

Vice President & Principal

Past deals in Japan

oVice

Series A in 2021
oVice, Inc. develops a virtual space based on voice chat for remote communication. Its online platform allows communication centered on voice and enables the communication between people who are working remotely and people who work in the actual office. oVice, Inc. was formerly known as NIMARU TECHNOLOGY Co., Ltd. The company was founded in 2020 and is based in Tokyo, Japan.

J-Pharma

Series D in 2021
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.

HRBrain

Funding Round in 2020
HRBrain, INC. owns and operates an online platform that provides cloud-based human resource evaluation services. It offers centralized management of human resource data, personal evaluation, organizational structure, and tissue analysis. The company was founded in 2016 and is based in Tokyo, Japan.

DIV

Debt Financing in 2020
DIV operates TECH::CAMP, a programming school, a short-term intensive training course designed to turn students into engineers.

Paidy

Series C in 2019
Paidy Inc. is a Tokyo-based company that offers a cardless payment platform for online shopping. Founded in 2008 and formerly known as Exchange Corporation K.K., Paidy allows consumers to make purchases using just their name and email address, eliminating the need for credit cards or pre-registration. The service is designed for mobile and instant-checkout, enabling users to buy online and settle their payments through a consolidated monthly bill. Paidy employs proprietary technology to assess creditworthiness, underwrite transactions, and ensure payment to merchants. This innovative approach caters to Japanese consumers who prefer not to use credit cards, thereby helping online vendors enhance their conversion rates, increase average order values, and encourage repeat purchases.

Aperza

Series B in 2019
Aperza Inc. is a Japanese company that develops and operates various online platforms for the manufacturing industry, aimed at enhancing information access, transactions, and communication. Established in 2016 and based in Yokohama, Aperza offers a range of services including an industrial portal, catalog download sites, and an e-commerce marketplace. The company also provides curation media and focused publications related to factory automation and IoT. Aperza is committed to supporting the manufacturing sector's evolution by helping companies engage with global markets and fostering startups that embrace new trends like Industry 4.0 and smart manufacturing. Through its initiatives, Aperza aims to stimulate growth in the manufacturing industry, addressing key barriers that hinder progress.

FLOSFIA

Venture Round in 2019
FLOSFIA INC. is a Tokyo-based company that specializes in the development of corundum structured Gallium Oxide semiconductor power devices. Founded on March 31, 2011, the firm emerged as a spin-off from research conducted at Kyoto University. FLOSFIA focuses on utilizing the unique physical properties of gallium oxide to create low-loss power devices that offer high breakdown voltage and efficiency. The company employs mist chemical vapor deposition (CVD) techniques for film formation, which enhances the performance of its semiconductor products.

Yappli

Series C in 2019
Yappli is a Tokyo-based B2B SaaS software company that provides an online platform to easily build, manage, and analyze enterprise-grade native mobile applications without the need for coding skills. The company is on a T2D3 growth path with notable clients such as The North Face, GYAO, Azul by Moussy, and Cartoon Network. Yappli is changing the app development industry through its innovative and creative solutions. The online platform allows users to construct a UI from scratch and maintain full control over the way the app looks and feels. Along with giving the user full control, Yappli has numerous API relations and external services to further reinforce the app experience. Yappli is a neutral platform for app development and management, so the users will have full ownership in terms of the account and app management. These features along with a dedicated support team can help companies effortlessly design the perfect app, all without coding knowledge. Notable Awards: 5th place in CLOUD TOP10 Forbes Japan 2020; 7th place at Deloitte Fast 50 Japan 2018; 2nd place at SLUSH ASIA in 2015; Won AWS award at Tech in Asia Tokyo 2015

WOVN Technologies

Venture Round in 2019
WOVN Technologies offers website localization service that translates a website into multiple languages. The company aims to make website multilingualization and localization straight-forward, simple, and accessible to anyone from a website developer, to a blogger.

Pathee

Series A in 2018
Pathee is a search engine that finds specific information for people starting from their current location. The next-generation search engine to find information of close ones starting from the current location.

Payke

Venture Round in 2018
Payke, Inc. is a Tokyo-based company that offers a cloud-based application enabling users to access product information in their native language by scanning barcodes. Founded in 2014, Payke aims to bridge language barriers for foreign visitors in Japan, facilitating their shopping experience by providing product details in the language of their choice. The app serves a diverse user base, including individuals, businesses, and retailers, and aims to create a comprehensive global database of products linked to their barcodes. By organizing and reorganizing this information, Payke allows users to easily access product details anytime and anywhere, enhancing the overall shopping experience for both local and international customers.

Azit

Venture Round in 2018
Azit Inc. is a Tokyo-based software developer founded in 2013, specializing in car sharing services. The company offers a mobile application called CREW, which enables users to request nearby vehicles using their smartphones, thereby enhancing urban mobility. Additionally, Azit provides a people-to-people sampling platform named Tribu. With a focus on creating efficient transportation solutions, Azit aims to address the mobility needs of residents in Japan.

Metcela

Series A in 2018
Metcela Inc. is a biotechnology company specializing in fibroblast-based therapies for cardiac diseases, particularly Ischemic Heart Disease. Founded in 2016 and located in Kawasaki-shi, Japan, the company has developed a technology that utilizes VCAM-1-positive cardiac fibroblasts derived from patients' own cells. This innovative approach aims to replenish and restore damaged cardiac muscle and its surrounding microenvironment, offering potential advancements in regenerative medicine for those suffering from cardiac conditions.

Connexx Systems

Venture Round in 2018
Connexx Sysytems developing core battery technologies.

Sensyn Robotics

Venture Round in 2018
Sensyn Robotics specializes in developing innovative business solutions that integrate drone and robotics technology, primarily aimed at enhancing infrastructure inspections. Their software products facilitate efficient assessments in sectors such as oil, electric power, and construction, enabling businesses and municipalities to access and evaluate affected sites with greater ease. By promoting automation and unattended operations, Sensyn Robotics addresses labor shortages and streamlines processes, contributing to solutions for social challenges in Japan. Additionally, the company aims to share its diverse offerings, developed in a country facing significant global challenges, with markets around the world.

Plaid

Venture Round in 2018
Plaid the service provider does not have to analyze it using the service, such as data analysis, review the improvement plan, the only step on a separate step to reflect site. It is because the output for analysis and improvement of these services are divided. Therefore, you would have meant turning the PDCA high cost of resources and time-consuming large.

The port

Venture Round in 2018
Port is involved in the internet media business. It is developing technology in the three social task areas of career (employment), finance (finance) and medical (medical).

FLOSFIA

Venture Round in 2018
FLOSFIA INC. is a Tokyo-based company that specializes in the development of corundum structured Gallium Oxide semiconductor power devices. Founded on March 31, 2011, the firm emerged as a spin-off from research conducted at Kyoto University. FLOSFIA focuses on utilizing the unique physical properties of gallium oxide to create low-loss power devices that offer high breakdown voltage and efficiency. The company employs mist chemical vapor deposition (CVD) techniques for film formation, which enhances the performance of its semiconductor products.

Biopalette

Seed Round in 2018
Biopalette is a operator of a platform intended to offer gene-editing techniques. Bio Palette plans to develop our business in three fields, classified based on the type of cells targeted for genome editing.

SDP Japan

Venture Round in 2018
SDP Japan Co., Ltd. operates as a speciality hospital provider focusing on orthopedic and cardiovascular surgeries. The company was founded in 2014 and is based in Shinjuku, Japan.

Candee

Series B in 2017
Candee Inc. offers online video production, talent management, and advertising services. The company was founded in 2015 and is based in Tokyo, Japan.

FLOSFIA

Venture Round in 2017
FLOSFIA INC. is a Tokyo-based company that specializes in the development of corundum structured Gallium Oxide semiconductor power devices. Founded on March 31, 2011, the firm emerged as a spin-off from research conducted at Kyoto University. FLOSFIA focuses on utilizing the unique physical properties of gallium oxide to create low-loss power devices that offer high breakdown voltage and efficiency. The company employs mist chemical vapor deposition (CVD) techniques for film formation, which enhances the performance of its semiconductor products.

Paidy

Venture Round in 2017
Paidy Inc. is a Tokyo-based company that offers a cardless payment platform for online shopping. Founded in 2008 and formerly known as Exchange Corporation K.K., Paidy allows consumers to make purchases using just their name and email address, eliminating the need for credit cards or pre-registration. The service is designed for mobile and instant-checkout, enabling users to buy online and settle their payments through a consolidated monthly bill. Paidy employs proprietary technology to assess creditworthiness, underwrite transactions, and ensure payment to merchants. This innovative approach caters to Japanese consumers who prefer not to use credit cards, thereby helping online vendors enhance their conversion rates, increase average order values, and encourage repeat purchases.

Wonderplanet

Venture Round in 2017
Wonderplanet Inc. designs and develops native language applications and games for smart phones and tablets. It provides 2D and 3D games for iOS and android. The company was founded in 2012 and is based in Nagoya, Japan.

OpenLogi

Series B in 2017
OpenLogi is a Tokyo based logistics platform focused on SMEs and freelancers. OpenLogi was founded back in December 2013 by Hidetsugu Ito who was previously involved in launching Japanese magazine subscription service Fujisan.co.jp. Based on his experience in discussing and negotiating with logistics companies, he founded OpenLogi to address logistics solutions for small e-commerce players.

Pathee

Series A in 2017
Pathee is a search engine that finds specific information for people starting from their current location. The next-generation search engine to find information of close ones starting from the current location.

Biopalette

Venture Round in 2017
Biopalette is a operator of a platform intended to offer gene-editing techniques. Bio Palette plans to develop our business in three fields, classified based on the type of cells targeted for genome editing.

Biopalette

Seed Round in 2017
Biopalette is a operator of a platform intended to offer gene-editing techniques. Bio Palette plans to develop our business in three fields, classified based on the type of cells targeted for genome editing.

FLOSFIA

Venture Round in 2017
FLOSFIA INC. is a Tokyo-based company that specializes in the development of corundum structured Gallium Oxide semiconductor power devices. Founded on March 31, 2011, the firm emerged as a spin-off from research conducted at Kyoto University. FLOSFIA focuses on utilizing the unique physical properties of gallium oxide to create low-loss power devices that offer high breakdown voltage and efficiency. The company employs mist chemical vapor deposition (CVD) techniques for film formation, which enhances the performance of its semiconductor products.

FLOSFIA

Venture Round in 2017
FLOSFIA INC. is a Tokyo-based company that specializes in the development of corundum structured Gallium Oxide semiconductor power devices. Founded on March 31, 2011, the firm emerged as a spin-off from research conducted at Kyoto University. FLOSFIA focuses on utilizing the unique physical properties of gallium oxide to create low-loss power devices that offer high breakdown voltage and efficiency. The company employs mist chemical vapor deposition (CVD) techniques for film formation, which enhances the performance of its semiconductor products.

Accounting SaaS Japan

Series C in 2016
Accouting SaaS Japan Co.,LTD. develops cloud-based accounting and tax applications software. The company is based in Tokyo, Japan.

Mikatus

Series C in 2016
Mikatus Inc. provides planning, development and sales of cloud services for tax accountants. The company provides software of mobile and computers for tax accountants . Mikatus Inc. was founded in 2009 and is based in Tokyo, Japan.

Toreta

Series D in 2016
Toreta, Inc. is a Tokyo-based company that specializes in developing applications for restaurant reservations. Founded in 2013, Toreta offers a mobile application that streamlines reservation management for restaurants in Japan. The application allows for automatic recording of reservation conversations with customers, generates customer ledgers based on reservation details, and enables online reservations 24/7. Accessible through iPads, Toreta's tools are designed to enhance the efficiency of restaurant operations and improve customer experience.

Raksul

Series D in 2016
Raksul Inc. provides printing services in Japan. It prints newspaper folding products, station stage posters, business cards, cards, business materials, greeting cards, signs/displays, designing on PC online, posts, flyers, posters, tickets, fans, slips, eating/store tools, direct mails, print brochures/catalogs, postcards, files and folders, flags, desktop POPs, novelties/goods, TV commercials, fold brochures, envelopes, seals and stickers, curtains/goodwill products, calendars, and new year's cards. The company was founded in 2009 and is headquartered in Tokyo, Japan.

Paidy

Series B in 2016
Paidy Inc. is a Tokyo-based company that offers a cardless payment platform for online shopping. Founded in 2008 and formerly known as Exchange Corporation K.K., Paidy allows consumers to make purchases using just their name and email address, eliminating the need for credit cards or pre-registration. The service is designed for mobile and instant-checkout, enabling users to buy online and settle their payments through a consolidated monthly bill. Paidy employs proprietary technology to assess creditworthiness, underwrite transactions, and ensure payment to merchants. This innovative approach caters to Japanese consumers who prefer not to use credit cards, thereby helping online vendors enhance their conversion rates, increase average order values, and encourage repeat purchases.

Retty

Series D in 2016
Retty Inc. operates a gourmet platform called Retty, which provides users with information and recommendations about restaurants in Japan. Founded in 2010 and headquartered in Tokyo, the platform allows users to share their dining experiences and discover new places to eat based on suggestions from friends and others with similar tastes. Retty aims to simplify the process of choosing restaurants, enhancing the dining experience through a social approach. The company is also developing mobile applications for iPhone and Android, making it more convenient for users to access restaurant information on the go.

The port

Venture Round in 2016
Port is involved in the internet media business. It is developing technology in the three social task areas of career (employment), finance (finance) and medical (medical).

Kaizen Ad

Series B in 2016
Kaizen Platform, Inc. is a digital marketing company that provides an integrated online platform for brands, agencies, and freelancers to create, test, and optimize customer experiences across various digital channels. The company offers a suite of solutions, including Kaizen Ad, a video creative platform that delivers high-quality video ads efficiently through a global network of skilled designers. This platform allows users to collaborate on digital marketing strategies, access analytics, and leverage audience targeting to enhance performance. Additionally, Kaizen provides services in UI/UX design, video production, and cloud-based sales support, facilitating digital transformation for remote sales teams. Established in 2013, Kaizen Platform is headquartered in San Francisco, California, with an additional office in Tokyo, Japan, and serves multiple sectors, including retail, healthcare, and technology.

Plaid

Venture Round in 2015
Plaid the service provider does not have to analyze it using the service, such as data analysis, review the improvement plan, the only step on a separate step to reflect site. It is because the output for analysis and improvement of these services are divided. Therefore, you would have meant turning the PDCA high cost of resources and time-consuming large.

Kaizen Ad

Series A in 2015
Kaizen Platform, Inc. is a digital marketing company that provides an integrated online platform for brands, agencies, and freelancers to create, test, and optimize customer experiences across various digital channels. The company offers a suite of solutions, including Kaizen Ad, a video creative platform that delivers high-quality video ads efficiently through a global network of skilled designers. This platform allows users to collaborate on digital marketing strategies, access analytics, and leverage audience targeting to enhance performance. Additionally, Kaizen provides services in UI/UX design, video production, and cloud-based sales support, facilitating digital transformation for remote sales teams. Established in 2013, Kaizen Platform is headquartered in San Francisco, California, with an additional office in Tokyo, Japan, and serves multiple sectors, including retail, healthcare, and technology.

Retty

Series C in 2015
Retty Inc. operates a gourmet platform called Retty, which provides users with information and recommendations about restaurants in Japan. Founded in 2010 and headquartered in Tokyo, the platform allows users to share their dining experiences and discover new places to eat based on suggestions from friends and others with similar tastes. Retty aims to simplify the process of choosing restaurants, enhancing the dining experience through a social approach. The company is also developing mobile applications for iPhone and Android, making it more convenient for users to access restaurant information on the go.

Peatix

Series B in 2015
Peatix Inc. is a global event registration platform that offers tools for event organizers to create, promote, manage, and sell tickets for events of all sizes. Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, Peatix has facilitated over 30,000 events, ranging from concerts to conferences. The platform provides a mobile-centric solution, enhancing the event experience through social interactions and discovery features available on its mobile applications and website. With a focus on affordability, Peatix offers low ticketing fees and customizable event pages, making it easier for organizers to manage their events effectively. Since its launch, Peatix has expanded its operations to the United States and Singapore, supported by various investors in the technology and venture capital sectors.

Metaps Inc.

Series C in 2015
Metaps is engaged in three core business areas. Its finance business provides comprehensive services within the fintech domain, including cashless payment services, its marketing business provides one-stop digital marketing solutions, and its DX support business provides SaaS (software as a service) platforms such as data analysis tools.

Gshopper

Series C in 2015
Gshopper is a cross-border e-commerce platform headquartered in Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong, specializing in a diverse range of products, including electronics, cosmetics, health items, children's products, and outdoor gear. The company is recognized as a pioneer in global e-importing and utilizes advanced big data and artificial intelligence to identify trending products, offering them to consumers at competitive prices. Gshopper operates with a highly automated system, supported by a sophisticated in-house developed ERP system, ensuring efficient management of its operations. With a mission to connect consumers worldwide to popular products from various countries, Gshopper has established subsidiaries in over 16 countries, including the United States, China, Japan, and several European nations, continually expanding its global reach.

Accounting SaaS Japan

Series B in 2014
Accouting SaaS Japan Co.,LTD. develops cloud-based accounting and tax applications software. The company is based in Tokyo, Japan.

Mikatus

Venture Round in 2014
Mikatus Inc. provides planning, development and sales of cloud services for tax accountants. The company provides software of mobile and computers for tax accountants . Mikatus Inc. was founded in 2009 and is based in Tokyo, Japan.

Kaizen Ad

Series A in 2014
Kaizen Platform, Inc. is a digital marketing company that provides an integrated online platform for brands, agencies, and freelancers to create, test, and optimize customer experiences across various digital channels. The company offers a suite of solutions, including Kaizen Ad, a video creative platform that delivers high-quality video ads efficiently through a global network of skilled designers. This platform allows users to collaborate on digital marketing strategies, access analytics, and leverage audience targeting to enhance performance. Additionally, Kaizen provides services in UI/UX design, video production, and cloud-based sales support, facilitating digital transformation for remote sales teams. Established in 2013, Kaizen Platform is headquartered in San Francisco, California, with an additional office in Tokyo, Japan, and serves multiple sectors, including retail, healthcare, and technology.

Accounting SaaS Japan

Venture Round in 2014
Accouting SaaS Japan Co.,LTD. develops cloud-based accounting and tax applications software. The company is based in Tokyo, Japan.

Peatix

Series A in 2013
Peatix Inc. is a global event registration platform that offers tools for event organizers to create, promote, manage, and sell tickets for events of all sizes. Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, Peatix has facilitated over 30,000 events, ranging from concerts to conferences. The platform provides a mobile-centric solution, enhancing the event experience through social interactions and discovery features available on its mobile applications and website. With a focus on affordability, Peatix offers low ticketing fees and customizable event pages, making it easier for organizers to manage their events effectively. Since its launch, Peatix has expanded its operations to the United States and Singapore, supported by various investors in the technology and venture capital sectors.

Metaps Inc.

Series B in 2013
Metaps is engaged in three core business areas. Its finance business provides comprehensive services within the fintech domain, including cashless payment services, its marketing business provides one-stop digital marketing solutions, and its DX support business provides SaaS (software as a service) platforms such as data analysis tools.

Romax Technology

Venture Round in 2012
Romax Technology Limited is an engineering firm that specializes in software, analysis, and services for various industries, including automotive, wind energy, aerospace, and rail. The company offers a range of solutions, such as RomaxDESIGNER for modeling and analysis of transmissions, CAD FUSION for detailed simulation to enhance durability and efficiency, and Dynamic FUSION for streamlined design processes. Additionally, RomaxWIND provides multibody modeling for driveline dynamics, while InSight Fleet Monitor focuses on design and optimization. The firm also delivers engineering services, including consulting, training, and process improvement. Founded in 1989 and based in Nottingham, United Kingdom, Romax Technology has expanded its presence with offices in the United States, China, Japan, Korea, India, and Europe. The company was formerly known as Inter Technology Research before rebranding in 1995.

iSoftStone

Series B in 2007
iSoftStone Holdings Limited is a prominent IT services and solutions provider based in Beijing, China, with a global presence that includes North America, Europe, and Japan. Established in 2001, the company offers a comprehensive suite of services, including consulting, technology solutions, and business process outsourcing (BPO). Its consulting services encompass IT investments, business process management, and enterprise resource planning, while its proprietary solutions address specific industry needs in sectors such as banking, insurance, healthcare, and public services. iSoftStone also specializes in application development and maintenance, outsourced research and development, and infrastructure management, ensuring robust support for its clients. With a workforce of over 15,000 employees and numerous sales and delivery centers worldwide, the company focuses on key industries like technology, communications, and financial services. iSoftStone is committed to delivering end-to-end solutions through a blend of onshore expertise and offshore development capabilities.