SMBC Venture Capital

SMBC Venture Capital is the corporate venture capital arm of Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation, established in 2005 and headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. The firm focuses on investing in companies across various sectors, including information technology, life sciences, services, and manufacturing. SMBC Venture Capital leverages its parent company's extensive financial services experience to identify and support innovative startups and growth-stage companies, aiming to foster advancements in these key industries. By providing not only capital but also strategic guidance and resources, SMBC Venture Capital seeks to drive growth and create long-term value for its portfolio companies.

Furuta Daiji

Managing Director

Akira Ochiai

President and CEO

Yamaguchi Masahiro

Managing Director

Past deals in Business Development

Quanmatic

Series A in 2024
Quanmatic is an information and technology company focused on developing algorithms and solutions to connect quantum technologies with real-world applications. The company has created an experiential learning platform that features tutorial content and demonstration applications designed for combinatorial optimization problems. This platform allows users to input mathematical data and run quantum annealing machines directly from a web browser, enabling them to tackle large-scale challenges effectively. By bridging the gap between advanced quantum technology and practical problem-solving, Quanmatic aims to enhance understanding and utilization of quantum computing in various fields.

Pathos Logos

Series A in 2024
Pathos Logos operates as a human resource co-creation platform focused on enhancing corporate back-office operations. By offering Software as a Service (SaaS) solutions and supplying human resources, the company aims to free up time for creativity within organizations. Its platform facilitates the development of peripheral marketplaces, allowing companies to streamline processes and reduce the significant man-hours typically needed for API integration. Through these innovations, Pathos Logos supports the growth of various SaaS-based businesses, positioning itself as a valuable partner for organizations seeking to optimize their operational efficiency.

Arches

Seed Round in 2024
Arches is a sharing platform that specializes in the Asian market, facilitating connections between global clients and local experts. Its primary mission is to enhance clients' growth by leveraging the knowledge, networks, and resources of these experts. The platform offers on-demand expert-matching and research consulting services, providing insights into various regions and industries tailored to client needs. Services include conducting expert interviews, organizing local tours, and creating detailed market reports. By fostering knowledge sharing, Arches enables clients to better understand the complexities of the Asian market, assess business risks, and identify investment opportunities.

Yell

Series B in 2024
YeLL, Inc. is a human resources consulting firm based in Shinagawa-ku, Japan, founded in 2013. The company specializes in employee engagement and organizational development, offering solutions that enhance communication and support individual employee growth. YeLL's platform includes coaching and career consultancy services, aimed at helping employees identify and address their challenges. By making the voices of employees more visible, YeLL assists organizations in transforming their workplace culture and improving overall effectiveness. Through its innovative approach, the company seeks to strengthen organizational dynamics and foster a more engaged workforce.

X Mile

Series B in 2024
X Mile is a human resources platform focused on connecting logistics companies with drivers. It develops a software-as-a-service (SaaS) solution aimed at addressing workforce challenges, such as labor shortages and low productivity. The platform operates by providing recruitment services across various sectors, including logistics, automobile maintenance, and construction. By supporting agents in these fields, X Mile enhances operational efficiency and helps increase sales for non-desk businesses, facilitating better management and workforce solutions.

Micoworks

Series B in 2023
Micoworks is a planning and development platform that focuses on enhancing marketing strategies through improved communication. It offers tools designed for optimal communication and personalization of the customer experience. The platform enables businesses to categorize customer information effectively and automates various processes, including customer interviews, conversations, and reservations. This functionality allows clients to streamline their operations and develop their marketing strategies more efficiently.

M&A Bazaar

Seed Round in 2023
M&A Bazaar operates a Japanese M&A platform designed to facilitate connections between businesses seeking to acquire or merge with others. The platform offers a unique M&A Bazaar Method, which addresses the challenges associated with traditional M&A processes. It is accessible to both buyers and sellers at no cost, as the company does not impose fees for introductions. This approach allows businesses to leverage mergers and acquisitions as a means of growth without the financial barriers typically associated with such transactions.

Kickflow

Seed Round in 2023
Kickflow is an IT firm that offers a cloud-based workflow service designed to enhance management efficiency and facilitate business growth. The company's workflow tool provides customizable settings tailored to specific organizational structures, approval processes, and internal regulations. This flexibility enables medium-sized and large companies to manage their tasks in a more streamlined manner, ultimately improving operational effectiveness.

AGRI SMILE

Series A in 2023
AGRI SMILE, established in 2018 and headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, is a technology-driven company dedicated to promoting sustainable agriculture. It operates an online platform, AGRIs, which offers a video distribution service for professional farmers, an agricultural materials verification and sales business, and an agricultural successor training system. AGRI SMILE's mission is to foster agricultural industry development by integrating software and science, creating new technologies based on accumulated data. The company aims to establish environmentally harmonious cultivation systems that enrich the lives of agricultural workers both financially and spiritually.

HQ

Series A in 2022
Hq is a consutling firm that works in the area of personnel organization strategy, working style office strategy and software development.

Space BD

Venture Round in 2021
Space BD is a company focused on facilitating the industrialization of space by offering a comprehensive range of services tailored to address the challenges faced by businesses developing new technologies. By adopting a business-driven approach, Space BD aims to streamline access to space for scientists and organizations, thereby promoting the commercialization of low Earth orbit. The company positions itself as a one-stop solution for various space-related needs, ultimately seeking to simplify and enhance the process of space exploration and utilization for its clients.

Good Vibes Only

Series A in 2021
Good Vibes Only Inc. is a consulting firm based in Shibuya, Japan, specializing in digital transformation and direct-to-consumer (D2C) services. Established in 2018, the company focuses on the apparel industry, offering a range of services that include product planning, development, manufacturing, public relations, and sales. Good Vibes Only operates an apparel digital transformation platform that leverages web3 technology to enhance merchandise planning and demand forecasting. By utilizing digital samples and artificial intelligence, the company aims to innovate supply chain processes in the apparel sector, facilitating regular access to new apparel in the web3 space for its clients.

Creww

Venture Round in 2020
Creww Inc. is a Tokyo-based company that operates a platform dedicated to the business development of startups. Established in 2012, it provides a range of services designed to support new businesses and entrepreneurs. Its offerings include Creww Accele, a collaboration platform that promotes startup initiatives, and Docks, which provides co-working spaces for businesses. Additionally, Creww offers Steams, a cloud service that facilitates co-creation business programs, and a corporate membership service that supports new business creation. The company focuses on fostering a startup community by leveraging digital technology to assist entrepreneurs in tackling social and corporate challenges, while also promoting corporate open innovation and digital transformation. Creww aims to connect startups with appropriate investors and strategic partners, thereby enhancing their growth potential.

Mazrica

Venture Round in 2019
Mazrica, Inc. is a Tokyo-based company established in 2015 that specializes in designing and developing an online business support platform. The company offers a sales force automation and customer relationship management software called "Senses," which enhances organizational performance by tracking sales opportunities and managing centralized information. In addition to its software solutions, Mazrica provides business consulting services, particularly focusing on infrastructure projects. The platform incorporates artificial intelligence to assist clients in improving their organizational intelligence and addressing common challenges in personalization. By combining technology with consulting, Mazrica aims to foster a more creative and fulfilling work environment for sales organizations.

Space BD

Venture Round in 2019
Space BD is a company focused on facilitating the industrialization of space by offering a comprehensive range of services tailored to address the challenges faced by businesses developing new technologies. By adopting a business-driven approach, Space BD aims to streamline access to space for scientists and organizations, thereby promoting the commercialization of low Earth orbit. The company positions itself as a one-stop solution for various space-related needs, ultimately seeking to simplify and enhance the process of space exploration and utilization for its clients.

MIL

Venture Round in 2019
MIL Inc., founded in 2018 and based in Tokyo, Japan, specializes in interactive video and movie production, alongside product development services. The company focuses on various aspects of video marketing, including video commerce, online-to-offline (O2O) strategies, recruitment videos, and landing videos. Through its innovative offerings, MIL aims to enhance engagement and promote effective communication for its clients across diverse sectors.

ExaWizards

Venture Round in 2019
ExaWizards is an artificial intelligence startup focused on addressing social issues through innovative technological solutions. The company develops AI-enabled services aimed at enhancing various sectors, including medicine, healthcare, education, finance, and robotics. One of its primary objectives is to improve the quality of care for dementia patients while also supporting new caregivers in delivering effective assistance. By fostering partnerships with other organizations, ExaWizards accelerates business growth across multiple fields, leveraging AI technology to drive industrial innovation and tackle pressing social challenges.

Yappli

Series C in 2019
Yappli is a Tokyo-based B2B SaaS company that offers a no-code platform for developing, managing, and analyzing native mobile applications. Designed for enterprises, the platform enables users to create applications without any programming skills, allowing them to customize the user interface and maintain control over the app's design and functionality. Yappli supports a wide range of external services and APIs, enhancing the overall app experience. The company has established a reputation in the industry, serving notable clients such as The North Face, GYAO, Azul by Moussy, and Cartoon Network. With a commitment to user ownership and a dedicated support team, Yappli aims to simplify the app development process for businesses. The company has received several accolades, including recognition in Forbes Japan's CLOUD TOP10 and Deloitte's Fast 50 Japan.

Space BD

Venture Round in 2019
Space BD is a company focused on facilitating the industrialization of space by offering a comprehensive range of services tailored to address the challenges faced by businesses developing new technologies. By adopting a business-driven approach, Space BD aims to streamline access to space for scientists and organizations, thereby promoting the commercialization of low Earth orbit. The company positions itself as a one-stop solution for various space-related needs, ultimately seeking to simplify and enhance the process of space exploration and utilization for its clients.

IMCF

Venture Round in 2019
IMCF Co., Ltd., based in Tokyo, Japan, is a brand incubation company that supports fashion designers. It offers a range of services, including funding, business management, marketing, and back-office support, allowing designers to focus on their creative work. IMCF invests in designers, aids in brand creation, and promotes their businesses, acting as a unified business partner. The company aims to facilitate the conversion of designers' ideas into successful brands, providing knowledge of business and marketing processes while minimizing launch costs and time.

Caster Biz

Seed Round in 2019
Caster, Inc. is a Tokyo-based company that specializes in providing virtual assistant services. Founded in 2014, it offers a wide range of support, including research and analytical tasks, recruitment assistance, customer service, appointment management, and mail handling. The company also provides accounting and human resource services, aiming to simplify daily business operations for its clients. Caster's assistants are equipped with proficiency in essential software tools such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, allowing them to effectively manage various administrative tasks. By leveraging online communication channels, Caster facilitates easy access to its services, enhancing productivity and efficiency for businesses looking to streamline their operations.

Spready

Venture Round in 2018
Spready Inc., founded in May 2018 and based in Japan, focuses on creating innovative internet services that foster connections between individuals and organizations. The company has developed a networking platform designed to facilitate interactions between users and businesses, enabling them to explore new opportunities and solve challenges across various industries. By leveraging technology, Spready's platform helps users discover suitable companies and allows businesses to engage with the right individuals, enhancing networking possibilities in an online social environment.

Yell

Venture Round in 2018
YeLL, Inc. is a human resources consulting firm based in Shinagawa-ku, Japan, founded in 2013. The company specializes in employee engagement and organizational development, offering solutions that enhance communication and support individual employee growth. YeLL's platform includes coaching and career consultancy services, aimed at helping employees identify and address their challenges. By making the voices of employees more visible, YeLL assists organizations in transforming their workplace culture and improving overall effectiveness. Through its innovative approach, the company seeks to strengthen organizational dynamics and foster a more engaged workforce.

KIYO Learning

Venture Round in 2018
KIYO Learning Co., Ltd. is a Tokyo-based company established in 2010 that specializes in the planning, production, sale, and operation of educational content and services tailored for business professionals in Japan. The company focuses on providing e-learning courses and learning management services for corporations, enabling organizations to enhance the skills and knowledge of their workforce. Through its innovative educational offerings, KIYO Learning aims to support the professional development of individuals and improve overall business performance.

ExaWizards

Venture Round in 2018
ExaWizards is an artificial intelligence startup focused on addressing social issues through innovative technological solutions. The company develops AI-enabled services aimed at enhancing various sectors, including medicine, healthcare, education, finance, and robotics. One of its primary objectives is to improve the quality of care for dementia patients while also supporting new caregivers in delivering effective assistance. By fostering partnerships with other organizations, ExaWizards accelerates business growth across multiple fields, leveraging AI technology to drive industrial innovation and tackle pressing social challenges.

AZoom

Venture Round in 2017
AZoom Co Ltd specializes in management services for parking lot operations, providing outsourced solutions for property owners. The company engages in buying, selling, and leasing real estate, along with mediation services related to these transactions. In addition to its core parking lot management, AZoom is involved in business development and the operation of Internet media, further diversifying its service offerings. Through these activities, AZoom aims to enhance the efficiency and profitability of parking facilities while supporting property owners in optimizing their real estate assets.

SMARTCAMP

Series B in 2017
Smart Camp is a technology company that offers SaaS comparison services, inside sales agency support, and B2B digital marketing solutions.

Lisuto

Seed Round in 2017
Lisuto is a developer of an advanced Marketplace Optimization Platform designed to support eCommerce sellers in enhancing the visibility of their products across various marketplaces. Recognizing that a significant portion of eCommerce searches begin on marketplaces rather than traditional search engines, Lisuto addresses the challenges sellers face, such as intense competition and the complexities of product content optimization. The platform utilizes AI-driven tools for automated attribute extraction and competitive analysis, leveraging Natural Language Processing to streamline the optimization process. This allows sellers to improve their product discoverability and drive sales growth with minimal manual effort. Initially focused on major marketplaces in Japan, such as Rakuten and Yahoo Shopping, Lisuto aims to expand its services to leading marketplaces globally.

Cognitee

Series A in 2016
Cognitee Inc. is a Tokyo-based company that specializes in developing online brainstorming and decision-making software tools aimed at enhancing productivity and decision-making processes. Founded in 2013, Cognitee offers a suite of products including Discuss-Here Office, ViSummary, and BrainPlots, which help users identify errors and cognitive biases in their discussions and presentations. The Discuss-Here Office features automation software, while ViSummary provides comprehensive reports and summaries. The BrainPlots applications are designed to enhance content quality by offering insights inspired by TED speakers. Additionally, Cognitee utilizes a vast database to analyze trends in effective team performance across various business functions, offering analysis services through its COG Series. This platform quantitatively evaluates the cognitive biases present in team interactions, enabling organizations in sectors such as insurance, consulting, and marketing to improve their communication and decision-making capabilities.

BASE

Series A in 2016
BASE, Inc., established in 2012 and headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, specializes in the development and operation of Web services. The company offers a range of services, including an online shop opening service and a smartphone shopping app under the BASE brand. Additionally, it provides financial services such as YELL BANK, which facilitates fundraising for shop owners using the BASE platform. BASE also offers PAY.JP, an online service for implementing credit card payments, and PAY ID, an ID-type payment service for consumers. The company's services are primarily focused on the Japanese market.

ChatWork

Series B in 2016
Chatwork is a group chat application aimed at enhancing communication and collaboration among global teams, ultimately boosting productivity. The platform offers a range of features, including secure messaging, video chat, task management, and file sharing. Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Osaka, Japan, Chatwork has established itself as Asia's leading business chat app, serving over 200,000 companies across various industries. With a multilingual interface available in five languages, Chatwork caters to a diverse user base. The company operates with a workforce of 89 employees located in Tokyo, Osaka, and Taipei, and is also involved in peripheral services and new business development.

Cofame

Seed Round in 2015
Before you bring something to the table. Cofame is your companion to enable you to manage your contacts and meeting history, and improve your business process. New style of contact exchange: Cofame is the next generation of exchanging business card and contacts. You no longer need to bring your paper business cards. If they do not have Cofame? no worries, you can send a part of contact information over Text and Email. Unlike your current paper business card, with Cofame, you can exchange yours with number of people at a same time. Meeting management: Cofame also enables you to manage meetings, and replicate those meetings on your smartphone. When, who, and where you met these people, who's sitting where, and what you discussed. You never lose your memory.

Misoca

Seed Round in 2014
Misoca Inc. is a Japan-based company that specializes in cloud-based invoice management solutions. Established in 2011 and originally known as StandFirm Inc., Misoca focuses on optimizing business transactions through its platform. The services offered include the management and editing of invoices, quotations, and receipts, allowing businesses to create invoices efficiently and save time in their financial processes.

G-Factory Company

Venture Round in 2011
G-Factory Company specializes in real estate services, primarily catering to small and medium-sized enterprises, particularly restaurants and beauty salons. They offer leasing and renting services, along with comprehensive management support, to facilitate multi-store development and capital investment. Their services also extend to property information, interior equipment, overseas store opening assistance, maintenance, and support for mergers and acquisitions.

All Ads

Venture Round in 2008
All Ads is a Tokyo-based company that specializes in digital marketing services aimed at enhancing the cost-effectiveness of advertising for business professionals. By focusing on LTV marketing, All Ads combines data, technology, and consulting to optimize advertising strategies. The company provides a range of services including in-house media management, affiliate advertising consulting, operational advertising consulting, and roundtable discussions. Through its comprehensive approach, All Ads seeks to support the growth of its clients' businesses by improving their advertising performance.
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