East Ventures

East Ventures is a venture capital firm founded in 2009, with offices in Singapore, Tokyo, and Jakarta. The firm specializes in seed, early-stage, and Series A investments, focusing on technology and consumer sectors, including fintech, e-commerce, and education technology, primarily in Southeast Asia. East Ventures has supported over 170 companies across the region, with notable investments in Indonesia's unicorns such as Tokopedia and Traveloka. The firm typically invests between $0.1 million and $0.5 million and has been recognized for its consistent performance, being named the most active investor in Southeast Asia. In 2018, it launched a joint venture called EV Growth, aimed at providing growth capital to startups throughout Southeast Asia. East Ventures continues to play a significant role in nurturing the startup ecosystem in the region.

Willson Cuaca

Co-Founder & Managing Partner

Batara Eto

Co-founder and Managing Partner

Michito Fukkai

Associate

Keisuke Fukumura

Associate

Devina Halim

Investment Associate

Sena Hamilton

Investment Manager

Melisa Irene

Partner

Takeshi Kaneko

Managing Partner

Wai Kit Koh

Managing Partner

Taiga Matsuyama

Co-Founder & Managing Partner

Jordy Tenka

Senior Investment Associate

Amanda Umezono

Associate

Past deals in Japan

Douzo

Seed Round in 2021
douzo inc. specializes in the operation of C2C social commerce service 'Douzo'. It is based in Japan.

SPeak Corporation

Venture Round in 2021
SPeak Corporation, founded in 2019 and based in Tokyo, Japan, develops a web-based platform aimed at connecting global talent with opportunities in Japan. Its primary products include JPort Journal and JPort Match, the latter of which serves as a direct recruiting service. The platform is designed to facilitate career matching for young global students and companies, enabling effective searches for job opportunities and potential hires. By providing essential information and tools for career development, SPeak Corporation addresses the needs of both aspiring professionals and employers in the competitive job market.

1SEC

Seed Round in 2021
1SEC Inc., founded in 2019 and headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, specializes in the planning, development, and management of virtual influencers. The company aims to create impactful experiences, encapsulated in its motto of bringing happiness to the world in just one second. With a focus on integrating artificial intelligence with fashion and music, 1SEC is poised to launch innovative projects in the entertainment sector. The company operates both in Japan and the United States, emphasizing its commitment to shaping the future of virtual influencers and their role in popular culture.

Sakeai

Seed Round in 2020
Sakeai, Inc develops an application software that allows the user to record and post the alcohol it enjoyed. The company was founded in 2020 and is based in Nagaoka, Japan.

Paytner

Seed Round in 2020
Paytner is a Tokyo-based company that develops and operates a platform designed to support freelancers and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in securing financing. Founded in 2019, the company addresses the challenges faced by the growing freelance population in Japan, including issues related to funding and workplace harassment. Paytner's platform enables clients to receive rewards on the same day they register invoice information sent to their business partners, streamlining the payment process. By focusing on improving the working environment for freelancers and SMEs, Paytner aims to alleviate various obstacles that hinder their financial and professional growth.

X Kitchen

Seed Round in 2019
X Kitchen Inc. is engaged in cloud kitchen business and internet business. The company was founded in 2019 and is based in Tokyo, Japan.

Tokyo

Venture Round in 2019
Tokyo Inc. is a company based in Chiyoda-ku, Japan, specializing in the design and manufacture of advanced display modules for elevators. Founded in 2017, the company offers a multifunctional device that serves as a security camera, information portal, and content display within elevators. In addition to its display technology, Tokyo provides comprehensive elevator services aimed at enhancing tenant satisfaction. This includes the installation of ELV projectors that display images on elevator doors, thereby transforming the travel experience for users. The firm also offers a maintenance support service, ensuring that clients benefit from a seamless and efficient operation. Overall, Tokyo Inc. combines innovative technology with customer-centric solutions to meet the needs of modern elevator systems.

Live Duo

Seed Round in 2019
Live Duo Co., Ltd. engages in providing information technology (IT) services. The company was founded in 2018 and is based in Tokyo, Japan.

ZENJINMITOU

Venture Round in 2019
Zenjinmitou Co., Ltd. provides career support services for non-university graduates. The company engages in career consultation for venture managers, introduction of job offers and external services, and more. Zenjinmitou Co., Ltd. was founded in 2018 and is based in Tokyo, Japan.

Market Drive

Venture Round in 2017
Maket Drive which develops EveEve, Japan's largest marriage-hunting app, has raised funds from several individual investors, including East Ventures. With this financing, we will further strengthen our management system, promote development, and increase the number of affiliated stores.

TripBox, Inc.

Venture Round in 2017
TripBox, Inc. develops a mobile application which allows users to find eating and drinking establishments. The company is based in Tokyo, Japan.

FOWD

Angel Round in 2017
FOWD is a comprehensive entertainment company in Japan.

Market Drive

Venture Round in 2017
Maket Drive which develops EveEve, Japan's largest marriage-hunting app, has raised funds from several individual investors, including East Ventures. With this financing, we will further strengthen our management system, promote development, and increase the number of affiliated stores.

Market Drive

Venture Round in 2016
Maket Drive which develops EveEve, Japan's largest marriage-hunting app, has raised funds from several individual investors, including East Ventures. With this financing, we will further strengthen our management system, promote development, and increase the number of affiliated stores.

Flamingo

Pre Seed Round in 2016
Flamingo Inc. is a company based in Kusatsu City, Japan, that offers language lessons through a mobile application. Users can connect with native speakers for lessons priced at 2,000 yen per hour, providing an accessible way to learn languages in a café setting. The company's mission is to foster a multicultural society through the use of information technology, facilitating language acquisition and cultural exchange.

Leading Mark

Series A in 2015
Leading Mark Inc. is an employment agency based in Tokyo, Japan, that focuses on addressing the needs of job seekers. As a growing human resources startup, it is expanding its services to include mid-career and international hiring. The company has a representative in China who is dedicated to connecting top Japanese-speaking Chinese students with opportunities in Japan. Leading Mark emphasizes the importance of providing relevant information to job seekers, in contrast to larger, traditional agencies that may prioritize the interests of employers and their own commissions. By centering its efforts around the average job seeker, Leading Mark aims to alleviate frustration and support career development.

Elephantech

Seed Round in 2015
Elephantech Inc., founded in January 2014 and based in Tokyo, Japan, focuses on innovating the manufacturing of electronic circuits. The company seeks to revolutionize this field by employing inkjet printing technology, which allows for the precise application of metal only where needed, in contrast to traditional photolithography methods that waste materials and increase costs. This novel approach not only reduces the quantity of materials used but also minimizes the number of manufacturing processes, resulting in a significant cost reduction of up to 80% for prototype production. Elephantech's technology is particularly advantageous for on-demand manufacturing, making it an appealing option for small-batch production without the need for substantial initial investment. With a commitment to enhancing global manufacturing capabilities, Elephantech aims to lead the industry with its advanced techniques for producing printed wiring boards.

Shelfy

Venture Round in 2014
Shelfy, Inc., founded in 2014 and based in Tokyo, Japan, operates an online platform designed for interior design companies. The platform serves as a web service that facilitates the creation, management, and operation of safety documents at construction sites. It aims to promote effective connections between clients seeking to open or renovate their spaces and specialized contractors, thereby enhancing productivity and efficiency within the construction industry. By fostering a competitive environment, Shelfy seeks to improve user satisfaction and streamline processes for businesses and industry stakeholders.

Quan

Series A in 2014
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.

Translimit

Seed Round in 2014
Translimit, Inc., founded in 2014 and based in Shibuya-ku, Japan, specializes in designing and developing mobile applications, notably the quiz game BrainWars. This application engages players in competitive mental exercises through three sets of games, fostering a stimulating environment for users. The company's founders, Hiroki Takaba and Takuma Kudo, have a background in the gaming industry, having previously collaborated on various projects, including the virtual avatar service Ameba Pico and the mobile social game Girl Friend BETA. Translimit is also involved in the Movida Japan incubation program, which supports startups in the Tokyo area.

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.

DELY

Seed Round in 2014
Dely, Inc. is a Tokyo-based company founded in 2014 that specializes in the design and development of the Kurashiru software application, which serves as a leading recipe video service in Japan. Kurashiru provides a platform for a diverse range of culinary content, offering users access to numerous engaging cooking videos that showcase various recipes. The service reaches tens of millions of viewers each month, making it a significant resource for individuals seeking inspiration and guidance in their cooking endeavors. Dely's commitment to enhancing the culinary experience is reflected in its daily efforts to create impactful services that resonate with users.

LiB

Venture Round in 2014
LiB is a membership-based outplacement service based in Tokyo, Japan, focused on supporting women who are seeking to continue their careers. The company provides resources and guidance to help its members navigate their professional paths effectively. By catering specifically to women, LiB aims to address unique challenges they may face in the workforce, fostering a supportive community that empowers members to achieve their career goals.

Flier

Seed Round in 2014
Flier inc. develops a book abstract Web application. The company was founded in 2013 and is based in Tokyo, Japan.

MONEY DESIGN

Seed Round in 2014
MONEY DESIGN Co., Ltd. offers asset management and investment advice services. The company was founded in 2013 and is based in Tokyo, Japan.

Techouse inc.

Seed Round in 2014
Techouse Inc. is a Tokyo-based company that specializes in internet media and website service consulting. Founded on January 10, 2012, it provides information technology consulting services, focusing particularly on collaboration with human resources teams within businesses. Through its expertise, Techouse Inc. aims to enhance digital strategies and optimize online presence for its clients.

gumi

Series G in 2013
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.

Timers

Venture Round in 2013
Timers Inc., based in Tokyo, Japan, develops a variety of mobile applications aimed at enhancing social connections. The company operates 'Pairy', a social networking service designed specifically for couples, facilitating communication and relationship management. Additionally, Timers offers applications focused on matchmaking for singles, broadening its appeal in the dating landscape. Another aspect of their portfolio includes a family-oriented application that allows users to create and share photos and albums, particularly for child-rearing families. This platform enables families to compile monthly calendars and share memories with friends and relatives, fostering deeper familial connections.

Hands Share

Venture Round in 2013
Tsuklink Corporation plans, develops and designs services such as Japan's largest construction matching site.

Tsukulink

Seed Round in 2013
Tsukulink is a job match matching platform for Japan’s construction industry.

Japan Info

Venture Round in 2013
Japan Info provides genuine information about Japan. Japan Info make every effort to ensure that this site does not violate any rights, but if you would like to file a damage report etc.

Base

Seed Round in 2013
BASE, Inc. is an e-commerce platform developer based in Tokyo, Japan, specializing in the planning, development, and operation of web services. The company operates through three main segments: BASE Business, which includes an online shop opening service and a smartphone shopping app; PAY Business, which offers PAY.JP, a service for developers to integrate credit card payments into web services and e-commerce, as well as PAY ID, a payment identification service; and Other Business, which encompasses YELL BANK, a financial service designed to assist shop owners in raising funds through its online services. Founded in 2012, BASE aims to facilitate the attraction of online shoppers for its users.

Quan

Seed Round in 2012
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.