JR East Start Up

JR East Start Up is a corporate venture capital firm established in February 2018 and located in Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan. Operated by East Japan Railway, the firm focuses on providing incubator and accelerator services to support the growth of local startups. By fostering innovation and entrepreneurship within the region, JR East Start Up aims to enhance the startup ecosystem and drive economic development in Japan.

Yutaka Shibata

President and CEO

42 past transactions

Yuime

Series B in 2025
Yuime is an HR consulting firm that offers agricultural staffing, contract farming, and recruitment services.

Ken Robotec

Series B in 2025
Ken Robotec provides labor-saving solutions that promote productivity improvement and reduce the burden on workers at construction sites. They contribute to the evolution and development of the construction industry. The objective of Ken Robotec is to create a joyful construction site where robots and humans may collaborate.

EMobi

Seed Round in 2024
EMoBi is a transportation company that provides freight transport, and electric vehicle services with reservation facilities.

YADOKARI

Series B in 2024
YADOKARI is a real estate consulting company specializing in the construction of mobile properties, tiny houses, and community buildings. The company provides a range of services focused on housing design, including planning and development of small living spaces, and the effective utilization of idle real estate. YADOKARI also offers facility management and supports community development through events and initiatives. Additionally, the company provides owned media support and regional development consulting, facilitating connections between new space owners and operators while enabling access to financial services.

Mode

Series B in 2024
Mode, Inc. is a technology company that specializes in developing a cloud-based platform for Internet of Things (IoT) solutions. Founded in 2014 and headquartered in San Mateo, California, with an additional office in Tokyo, Japan, the company provides end-to-end semi-custom IoT and artificial intelligence solutions. Mode's platform enables devices to communicate with mobile clients and facilitates the tracking and management of both devices and users. Their innovative BizStack IoT and BizStack AI solutions collect real-time data from various sensors and devices, which is then sanitized and structured for analysis. This data is presented through customizable dashboards that offer valuable insights, allowing organizations to enhance their operations and turn ideas into sustainable solutions. Mode's technology can be deployed significantly faster and more cost-effectively compared to traditional development methods, making it an appealing choice for businesses seeking to leverage IoT and AI capabilities.

Lineside Marugoto

Seed Round in 2023
Lineside Marugoto is a lineside rehabilitation company that entails converting derelict houses along railway lines into hotel rooms and treating the entire lineside neighborhood as a hotel.

Petokoto

Series B in 2023
Petokoto is a pet wellness company that creates and sells fresh food, runs pet media, and keeps pets happy. It is suitable to become an information source that combines accuracy, completeness, and updateability by utilizing the collective knowledge of experts both inside and outside the company and demonstrating their respective expertise. The company aims to develop a world where pets can be loved as family members.

ARK

Seed Round in 2022
ARK focuses on the research, development, and manufacturing of equipment for sustainable land-based aquaculture. The company has created an innovative closed circulation aquaculture system designed to democratize fish farming. This system supports off-the-grid operations, utilizing solar and wind power generation as well as solar hot water supply. By enabling clients to engage in aquaculture with zero emissions, ARK promotes environmentally friendly practices within the industry.

Photosynth

Series A in 2021
Photosynth Inc. is an information technology company based in Tokyo, Japan, specializing in the development of smart locks for homes. Founded on September 1, 2014, the company focuses on research and development in the Internet of Things (IoT) sector and operates cloud-based entrance and exit management systems. Through its innovative solutions, Photosynth aims to enhance security and convenience for residential users.

Good Aid

Venture Round in 2021
Good Aid is a company based in Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture, Japan, focused on transforming healthcare through various businesses, including pharmacies, home-visit nursing care, and pharmaceutical e-commerce. The company aims to set new standards in healthcare by offering innovative services that enhance customer convenience and reduce medical costs. Its platform allows customers to purchase essential medications without a prescription, challenging traditional medical practices. In response to the societal impact of the coronavirus, Good Aid is committed to developing new medical options that cater to the evolving needs of society in the post-pandemic era.

SQUEEZE

Venture Round in 2021
SQUEEZE Inc. is a hospitality technology company based in Tokyo, Japan, established in 2014. It specializes in providing comprehensive management solutions for the lodging industry, including vacation rentals, hotels, and ryokans. Its flagship products include Mister Suite, a management system that streamlines operations for property owners; SuiteBook, a property management software designed for vacation rental and short-term monthly rental operations; and Mister Suite Lab, a demand analysis tool that leverages real market data for insights into lodging facilities. Additionally, SQUEEZE offers the Igloohome smart keybox, a Bluetooth-enabled device that facilitates key exchanges for vacation rentals and real estate viewings without needing an internet connection. Another innovative offering is Minn, a hospitality technology that enhances guest accommodation experiences in hotels. Overall, SQUEEZE aims to optimize operations in the hospitality sector while maximizing revenue and resource efficiency.

TENT Japan

Venture Round in 2021
TENT Japan operates an online platform that specializes in the rental of outdoor equipment and camping tents. The company focuses on providing a comprehensive product management and distribution system, alongside a rental-only inventory management tool that employs Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) technology. This innovative approach aims to reduce the barriers to purchasing outdoor gear, promote sustainable consumption, and help minimize waste of goods and resources. Through its services, TENT Japan seeks to facilitate outdoor experiences while encouraging environmentally responsible practices.

Sonas

Venture Round in 2021
Sonas Inc., based in Tokyo, Japan, specializes in the planning, design, manufacturing, and sales of hardware and software solutions for sensing and measurement. The company is developing "UNISONet," an innovative wireless communication technology aimed at addressing traditional Internet of Things (IoT) challenges. This technology distinguishes itself by employing a unique approach that integrates features such as power-saving capabilities, high-speed acquisition, low-latency bidirectional communication, and advanced data collection methods. These advancements enable the effective sensing of both small variables like temperature and humidity, as well as larger data sets including acceleration and images. By focusing on high-quality wireless sensing, Sonas aims to establish itself as a fundamental component of modern society.

Fermenstation

Venture Round in 2021
Fermenstation Co., Ltd., founded in 2009 and based in Iwate Prefecture, Japan, specializes in consulting services aimed at the utilization of unused biomass. The company focuses on ethanol production, animal feed production, and the development of aromatic products, offering feasibility studies and co-development projects. Fermenstation also leverages fermentation technology to add value to local resources and create innovative products. In addition to its consulting services, the company provides brand consulting, logo design, packaging design, website development, and public relations services, helping clients to establish sustainable new products. Furthermore, Fermenstation manufactures rice-based home ethanol, Komesshu air freshener, and Oshu soap, enhancing its portfolio with practical applications of its expertise.

Connected Robotics

Venture Round in 2020
Connected Robotics Inc, founded in 2014 and based in Koganei-shi, Japan, designs and manufactures robotic arms tailored for the food service industry. Its flagship product, OctoChef, addresses the labor shortages faced by restaurants by utilizing artificial intelligence and deep learning technologies to streamline cooking processes. The company serves a diverse clientele, including individual restaurants, shopping malls, stations, service areas, amusement centers, and large-scale events. By integrating intelligent robotics into kitchen operations, Connected Robotics aims to enhance the dining experience while promoting efficiency and quality in meal preparation.

Photosynth

Grant in 2020
Photosynth Inc. is an information technology company based in Tokyo, Japan, specializing in the development of smart locks for homes. Founded on September 1, 2014, the company focuses on research and development in the Internet of Things (IoT) sector and operates cloud-based entrance and exit management systems. Through its innovative solutions, Photosynth aims to enhance security and convenience for residential users.

DennoKotsu

Venture Round in 2020
DennoKotsu Inc. is a Japanese company based in Tokushima, established in 2015, that specializes in the development and provision of cloud-based taxi dispatch systems. The company operates call centers for taxi companies, offering a contract dispatch service that streamlines operations for multiple operators. Its platform is designed to enhance dispatch efficiency by providing drivers with navigation maps through vehicle-mounted tablets. DennoKotsu's solutions aim to improve regional transportation services, delivering cost-effective and customized dispatch systems that cater to the evolving needs of the taxi industry.

CoCooking

Venture Round in 2020
CoCooking Co. Ltd operates an online platform called Tabete, aimed at reducing food waste by connecting consumers with restaurants, take-out food stores, and bakeries that have excess food nearing expiration. Founded in 2015 and based in Tokyo, Japan, the company facilitates the sale of this surplus food at discounted prices, promoting sustainability and minimizing waste. In addition to its platform, CoCooking organizes events and workshops focused on food conservation, fostering dialogue and creativity around food-related issues. Through these initiatives, CoCooking seeks to enhance the well-being of individuals and communities while contributing to a positive social impact.

VILLAGE

Venture Round in 2020
VILLAGE INC. is a company based in Shimoda City, Japan, that specializes in owning and managing camping facilities. In addition to its camping services, VILLAGE also operates restaurants and commercial facilities, providing a comprehensive outdoor experience for its customers. This focus on leisure and hospitality allows VILLAGE to cater to a diverse clientele seeking both recreational activities and dining options in a natural setting.

Asulabo

Venture Round in 2020
Asulabo Co., Ltd., founded in June 2010 and based in Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan, operates primarily in property management and consulting services for business development. The company focuses on creating innovative mechanisms and environments, offering services that include human resources development through share houses, as well as revitalizing regional central cities and managing commercial facilities. Asulabo also engages in the rental, purchase, sale, and appraisal of real estate. In addition, it has developed a dining establishment called Yokocho, which highlights local ingredients and cuisine, promoting regional charm on a national scale.

Hmcomm

Venture Round in 2019
Hmcomm specializes in AI-driven voice recognition and abnormal sound detection services tailored for business applications. The company provides a range of solutions, including cloud-based voice recognition, text recognition during voice calls, bone conduction technology, automatic answering machines, and tools for creating meeting minutes. By leveraging these technologies, Hmcomm aims to enhance operational efficiency for businesses, facilitating smoother communication and streamlined processes through advanced artificial intelligence.

Timee

Venture Round in 2019
Timee, Inc. is a Japanese company that specializes in the planning, development, and operation of applications, particularly focusing on a gig working platform. Founded in August 2017 and based in Shibuya-ku, Japan, Timee addresses labor shortages by connecting individuals seeking work with businesses in need of temporary labor. The platform facilitates on-demand job opportunities, making it a leading solution in the gig economy within Japan.

Address Japan

Venture Round in 2019
Address Japan is a Tokyo-based company that specializes in co-living services, offering a diverse range of luxurious residences across urban and rural areas in Japan. The company provides an online property rental marketplace that allows users to access a variety of comfortable properties equipped with essential amenities. With a fixed-price membership service, Address Japan enables individuals to enjoy flexible living arrangements without the complexities of traditional rental agreements. This model facilitates a flat-rate system, making it easy for people to live in different locations throughout the country.

CBcloud

Corporate Round in 2019
CBcloud operates a logistics platform designed to enhance the delivery experience and address challenges within the logistics sector. By leveraging innovative technology, the company aims to improve efficiency and visibility in the logistics industry. CBcloud focuses on optimizing operations, enhancing the working environment for drivers, and developing new services for shippers. Additionally, the platform seeks to increase consumer satisfaction by providing a software solution that facilitates and automates logistics processes. Ultimately, CBcloud strives to create a more convenient and efficient logistics ecosystem for all stakeholders involved.

Al Travel

Venture Round in 2019
Al Travel is a next-generation cloud-type business travel arrangement and management system (BTM). AI Travel reduces business travel arrangements by up to 90% and simplifies application and reporting operations and significantly cuts operations that do not generate profits in the batch settlement.

Pixie Dust Technologies

Venture Round in 2019
Pixie Dust Technologies, Inc., founded in 2015 and based in Tokyo, Japan, specializes in the development of advanced phased array and digital fabrication technologies. The company’s flagship product is an ultrasonic phased array system that enables various innovative applications, such as generating force in mid-air, transporting objects without physical contact, and delivering targeted sounds to individuals in a crowd. Additionally, Pixie Dust Technologies creates devices like Sound Hug, which combines music with light and vibration, and Sonorepro, a hair care tool utilizing non-contact oscillating pressure stimulation. The company's offerings also include Vuevo, a service designed to visualize conversations among multiple people, and kikippa, a device focused on gamma wave sound care. Through its unique technological solutions, Pixie Dust Technologies aims to enhance social trust and improve user experiences across different domains.

Nature Innovation Group

Venture Round in 2019
Nature Innovation Group Co., Ltd. is based in Tokyo, Japan, and operates i-kasa, a mobile-based umbrella-sharing platform. This platform allows users to conveniently search for and rent umbrellas through a mobile application, making it easier to stay dry on rainy days. By providing rental spots in various locations, the company aims to enhance user experience during inclement weather, ensuring that individuals can access umbrellas when needed.

Tripla

Series C in 2019
Tripla is a rapidly growing startup in Japan that specializes in IT services across various industries, including hospitality, transportation, and real estate. The company offers a platform allowing tourists to make reservations in their preferred language through chat and voice interfaces. Its services cater to numerous clients, such as hotels and car rental companies, enhancing their customer engagement and operational efficiency. The Tripla chatbot, which combines AI technology with human support, effectively reduces inquiry costs and provides multilingual assistance. Additionally, Tripla's hotel reservation engine features an online travel agency price comparison and automatic best rate adjustments, significantly increasing in-house bookings and improving profitability for its clients.

Vacan

Venture Round in 2019
VACAN, Inc. is a technology company based in Tokyo, Japan, that specializes in a digital platform providing real-time vacancy information for restaurants, cafes, and parking lots. Founded in 2016, VACAN employs sensor technology to monitor available seats, allowing for dynamic display changes that can showcase advertisements, promotions, and important announcements. This functionality enables customers to efficiently check the current availability of seating in various dining establishments, ultimately saving them time and enhancing their experience. The platform's ability to integrate with mobile and digital signage further facilitates convenient access to vacancy information.

WAmazing

Series B in 2019
WAmazing, founded in 2016 and based in Tokyo, Japan, offers essential services for foreign travelers visiting the country. The company provides free SIM cards that allow tourists to register before arriving in Japan, facilitating access to mobile internet services of up to 500MB through its app. This service addresses challenges faced by visitors, such as navigating Japanese sign-up pages that require local phone numbers for free Wi-Fi access. In addition to SIM cards, WAmazing's platform serves as a multilingual travel guide, offering tour applications, reservation information, and tourism consulting services for local governments and tourism organizations. By enabling tourists to access vital information through their smartphones, WAmazing enhances the travel experience in Japan.

Foodison

Venture Round in 2019
Foodison, Inc. is a Tokyo-based company established in 2013 that operates a platform called UOPOCHI, enabling customers to order fish and related food products from various listed restaurants. The company also runs a fresh fish specialty store named Sakana bacca, which offers marine products sourced from diverse origins. Additionally, Foodison provides a wholesale service, Fish Poti, catering to restaurants. Through its innovative use of technology, the company is focused on enhancing the distribution of fresh groceries within the fishery sector.

Pocket Change

Venture Round in 2019
Pocket Change Inc. is a company based in Tokyo, Japan, founded in 2015. It specializes in converting leftover coins and bills into electronic money, gift codes, and coupons. The company operates kiosks located at airports and train stations, facilitating the exchange of foreign currency for electronic money, catering primarily to travelers. This innovative service aims to simplify the process of managing leftover currency, enhancing the overall travel experience.

WAmazing

Venture Round in 2019
WAmazing, founded in 2016 and based in Tokyo, Japan, offers essential services for foreign travelers visiting the country. The company provides free SIM cards that allow tourists to register before arriving in Japan, facilitating access to mobile internet services of up to 500MB through its app. This service addresses challenges faced by visitors, such as navigating Japanese sign-up pages that require local phone numbers for free Wi-Fi access. In addition to SIM cards, WAmazing's platform serves as a multilingual travel guide, offering tour applications, reservation information, and tourism consulting services for local governments and tourism organizations. By enabling tourists to access vital information through their smartphones, WAmazing enhances the travel experience in Japan.

TBM

Venture Round in 2019
TBM Co., Ltd. is a company based in Tokyo, Japan, that specializes in the research, production, and sale of LIMEX, a limestone-based material serving as an alternative to paper and plastics. Founded in 2011, TBM offers a diverse range of products, including LIMEX sheets for menus, business cards, displays, maps, and bags, as well as LIMEX plastic alternatives for containers, posters, and stationary goods. The company distributes its innovative products globally, contributing to environmentally friendly solutions in various sectors. TBM also has additional offices in Kyoto, Japan, and San Francisco, California, and operates as a subsidiary of ZERO Co., Ltd.

WAmazing

Venture Round in 2019
WAmazing, founded in 2016 and based in Tokyo, Japan, offers essential services for foreign travelers visiting the country. The company provides free SIM cards that allow tourists to register before arriving in Japan, facilitating access to mobile internet services of up to 500MB through its app. This service addresses challenges faced by visitors, such as navigating Japanese sign-up pages that require local phone numbers for free Wi-Fi access. In addition to SIM cards, WAmazing's platform serves as a multilingual travel guide, offering tour applications, reservation information, and tourism consulting services for local governments and tourism organizations. By enabling tourists to access vital information through their smartphones, WAmazing enhances the travel experience in Japan.

Sirc

Venture Round in 2019
SIRC Co., Ltd., founded in 2015 and headquartered in Osaka, Japan, specializes in the manufacture of sensor modules and electric components. The company develops multi-functional sensors that utilize the magnetoresistance effect of ferromagnetic materials, allowing for the creation of devices that integrate communication and information processing capabilities. SIRC's innovative multiplication function devices are designed to enhance the functionality of various electronic devices, contributing to the development of energy-efficient solutions for businesses.

PicoCELA

Corporate Round in 2018
PicoCELA Inc. is a company based in Itoshima, Japan, specializing in the manufacturing of advanced wireless backhaul technology designed to establish multicell wireless networks. Founded in 2008, PicoCELA develops the PicoCELA Backhaul Engine, a Linux application that enhances wireless platforms by enabling multi-hop communication and creating MIMOZONES, which provide comprehensive coverage through the aggregation of super small cells. The company's unique technology, protected by over 20 patents globally, employs a dynamic tree routing algorithm and wireless frame transfer to minimize radio interference and ensure stable broadband transmission with low latency. PicoCELA's systems have been successfully implemented in more than 100 sites across Japan, operating over 3,000 units daily, and have achieved significant reductions in LAN cabling, resulting in substantial cost savings. The company serves a diverse range of sectors, including enterprise, healthcare, education, and smart cities, and recently launched the PCWL-0400, an edge computer that further reduces cabling and data upload requirements.

Showcase Gig

Venture Round in 2018
Showcase Gig Inc. is a Tokyo-based company founded in 2012 that specializes in omni-channel marketing services through its mobile wallet service, O:der. The company develops a mobile platform aimed at enhancing digital services for small-sized retailers. Its offerings include smartphone applications tailored for next-generation IoT stores and a customer relationship management suite. The platform enables retailers to facilitate credit card payments via a mobile wallet feature, allowing customers to complete transactions before picking up their products in-store. This innovative approach aims to improve the shopping experience and optimize consumption behavior.

Metro Engines

Venture Round in 2018
Metro Engines is a remote sensing company that specializes in LIDAR technology and atmospheric measurement devices. The company provides meteorological information and Internet of Things (IoT) solutions to enhance data collection and analysis. Metro Engines focuses on delivering precise environmental insights that can be utilized across various applications, improving decision-making processes in sectors where accurate atmospheric data is crucial. Through its innovative technology, the company aims to support businesses in optimizing their operations and enhancing their service offerings.

Akippa

Venture Round in 2018
Akippa Inc. is a company based in Osaka, Japan, that operates a parking lot reservation application. Founded in 2009 and formerly known as Galaxy Agency Inc., the company provides a platform that facilitates the sharing of parking spaces by allowing users to make online reservations for unoccupied monthly parking spots and vacant spaces, including private garages and commercial facilities. Akippa's mobile application connects individuals and businesses seeking parking with available spaces, enabling users to pre-book their parking needs while allowing space owners to monetize their empty parking areas. The company also maintains an additional office in Tokyo.

BackTech

Seed Round in 2018
BackTech Inc., founded in 2016 and based in Kyoto, Japan, specializes in developing health management solutions aimed at improving the well-being of working individuals. The company's flagship product, Pocket Therapist, is a digital health application designed to measure shoulder stiffness and back pain, addressing common issues that affect workplace productivity. By offering comprehensive support that includes visualization of organizational productivity and targeted health solutions, BackTech seeks to alleviate challenges related to declining work performance and unresolved physical discomfort. The company's focus on integrating health management into the workplace aims to reduce medical expenses and enhance overall employee well-being.
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