Rege Nephro
Series B in 2024
Rege Nephro is a Kyoto-based biotechnology company focused on renal disease therapeutics. It conducts research and development, production, and marketing of therapies based on nephron progenitor cells, and develops kidney organoids used to screen nephrotoxicity in drug discovery. The company is leveraging induced pluripotent stem cell technology from the Center for iPS Cell Research and Application at Kyoto University to develop cell-based therapies for kidney conditions, along with potential applications for liver and pancreas diseases. Founded in 2019, Rege Nephro aims to reduce dialysis dependence by addressing renal failure through regenerative approaches.
Hakko Holdings
Seed Round in 2024
Hakko Holdings is a food-tech company focused on producing and manufacturing fermented plant-based foods using innovative fermentation technology. The company specializes in enhancing nutrition and flavor through its unique processes, offering a diverse range of soy and legume-based products. Its portfolio includes high-protein, low-water-use options made from specially cultivated lupin beans and soybeans. By providing delicious and wholesome alternatives, Hakko Holdings aims to promote healthy and sustainable lifestyles for consumers.
Luxna Biotech
Series C in 2024
Founded in Japan in 2017, Luxna Biotech specializes in developing nucleic acid drugs using advanced artificial technology. The company focuses on creating safe and effective oligonucleotide therapeutics based on licensed cross-linked modified nucleic acid groups.
On-chip Biotechnologies
Venture Round in 2024
Founded in Tokyo, Japan in 2005, On-chip Biotechnologies develops and manufactures innovative medical devices. Its flagship product is FISHMAN-R, a biosafety flow cytometer that enables flow cytometry on a microfluidics chip, detecting bacteria and cells with minimal sample quantity.
LIGHTz is an AI-driven firm offering consulting services alongside system and product development. Its online platform facilitates knowledge sharing, manages content using AI, generates project instructions, reduces training costs, and accelerates employee onboarding.
Green Chemical
Seed Round in 2024
Green Chemical is a chemical manufacturing company specializing in the production of bioplastic raw materials designed to replace petroleum-based products. The company utilizes innovative catalyst and production technology to convert inedible biomass resources into hydroxymethylfurfural, a crucial aromatic compound for bioplastics and various other chemicals. By focusing on sustainable practices, Green Chemical aims to expand the bioplastics market by offering a carbon-neutral alternative to traditional plastics, thereby promoting environmentally friendly solutions in the chemical industry.
RevolKa is a biotechnology company that develops bio-based products and pharmaceuticals for the healthcare sector. It operates a protein engineering platform that blends evolutionary molecular biology with artificial intelligence to predict and evolve protein sequences, enabling multi-function optimization. This approach aims to accelerate the development of high-performance proteins beyond natural evolution, supporting therapeutics and vaccines through assisted protein engineering technology.
AZUL Energy
Series A in 2023
AZUL Energy is a pioneering company focused on enhancing air battery performance through innovative catalyst technology. The company specializes in the development and manufacturing of metal-free catalytic electrodes and electrolysis catalysts, which are designed to optimize energy systems and promote a recycling-oriented society. AZUL Energy's research has demonstrated that its catalyst electrodes, which utilize unique pigments, outperform traditional materials such as platinum carbon. By providing cost-effective and resource-efficient solutions, AZUL Energy aims to facilitate the production of green hydrogen and support the transition to sustainable energy practices. Through its eco-friendly products, the company also advocates for new lifestyles that align with environmental sustainability.
LIGHTz
Venture Round in 2023
LIGHTz is an AI-driven firm offering consulting services alongside system and product development. Its online platform facilitates knowledge sharing, manages content using AI, generates project instructions, reduces training costs, and accelerates employee onboarding.
SEQSENSE develops autonomous mobile robots and related products.
ElevationSpace
Seed Round in 2022
ElevationSpace is a space startup focused on on-orbit construction and transportation. The company develops platforms for space utilization and recovery, facilitating scientific research and experimentation in microgravity environments. By manufacturing small artificial satellites designed to return deliverables to Earth, ElevationSpace provides clients with essential services for conducting space experiments and advancing research activities. Their innovative approach aims to enhance the capabilities of space operations and broaden the applications of satellite technology.
Epigeneron
Venture Round in 2021
Epigeneron, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Chuo, Japan, founded in 2015. The company focuses on the research, development, manufacturing, and marketing of pharmaceutical drugs, particularly in the areas of cancer, dementia, metabolic disorders, and infectious diseases. Epigeneron specializes in drug discovery, offering services that include the development of epigenetic and antimicrobial drugs. The company employs advanced techniques such as chromatin immunoprecipitation to isolate specific genomic regions, thereby facilitating the identification of molecules that interact with these regions. This innovative approach enables the development of gene therapies aimed at treating severe immune diseases and other serious health conditions, including fibrosis and disorders of the central nervous system. Additionally, Epigeneron is involved in the manufacture and sale of research reagents, diagnostic agents, and research equipment, alongside supporting drug discovery efforts through information services and intellectual property transfer.
ALE is a pioneering company founded in 2011 that specializes in creating innovative space entertainment experiences, including the world's first man-made meteor showers. By utilizing microsatellites to release particles that create atmospheric phenomena, ALE aims to merge meteor science with entertainment, stimulating public curiosity about space and science. The company operates with two primary goals: to entertain and inspire people while collecting valuable data from the mesosphere to enhance understanding of atmospheric phenomena and contribute to climate change research. ALE fosters a collaborative community of scientists, decision-makers, and the general public, promoting the exploration of the universe and encouraging a sustainable future on Earth. Through its unique approach, ALE connects scientific knowledge with societal interest, making the cosmos an engaging cultural sphere.
Sound Wave Innovation
Venture Round in 2020
Sound Wave Innovation is a medical device company that designs, develops, and supplies ultrasound and shockwave systems for minimally invasive treatments. The company focuses on low-power pulsed wave ultrasound and shockwave ablation catheter technologies to enable clinicians to treat conditions such as severe angina pectoris, mild dementia, and arrhythmias caused by sound waves.
Founded in Tokyo, Japan in 2016, Epigno specializes in providing human resource management solutions tailored for medical and nursing care institutions. Its platform aims to reduce workloads for healthcare personnel, enhance retention rates, and foster sustainable healthcare systems.
Kringle Pharma
Venture Round in 2020
Kringle Pharma is a Japanese biopharmaceutical company focused on the research and development of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)–based protein medicines and NK4 therapies. The company aims to leverage HGF’s regenerative properties and NK4’s antiangiogenic activity to address organ repair and cancer indications. Its pipeline includes recombinant human HGF for acute renal failure, spinal cord injury, and CNS diseases, as well as recombinant NK4 and NK4 gene therapies for cancer. Founded in 2001, the company operates in the Japanese market.
Piezo Studio
Series A in 2019
Piezo Studio Inc. is a manufacturing company based in Sendai, Japan, specializing in the design, development, and pre-production of electronic devices. Founded in 2014, the company offers a range of products, including resonators, sensing devices, and material filters for low power wireless communications. In addition to its product offerings, Piezo Studio provides cut and polish services for crystals, as well as consulting and material evaluation services, enhancing its capabilities in material development. Through its comprehensive approach, the company aims to meet the diverse needs of the electronics market.
Goryo Chemical
Venture Round in 2019
Goryo Chemical, Inc. is a Japanese company specializing in the development of fluorescent probes and functional dyes for applications in chemical biology and diagnostics. Founded in 2010 and headquartered in Sapporo, with an additional office in Tokyo, the company offers a range of products including AcidiFluor, CalFluor, GlycoFluor, and MetalloFluor, among others. These fluorescent probes are designed for cellular analysis, assay, and imaging, enabling selective staining of acidic organelles such as lysosomes and late endosomes. Goryo Chemical also provides bioluminescent probes, labeling services, and custom synthesis, catering to various needs in molecularly-targeted drug and immunoassay applications. The company serves its customers through a network of distributors both domestically and internationally.
AI Silk
Venture Round in 2019
AI Silk Corporation, established in 2015 and based in Sendai, Japan, specializes in the manufacture and sale of innovative conductive fibers. The company's flagship product, AI Silk, is created using a unique dyeing technique that imbues natural silk with conductivity. This advancement allows for the production of electrodes that address common issues associated with traditional medical electrodes, such as discomfort, skin irritation, and measurement inaccuracies caused by sweat. AI Silk’s technology not only enhances the comfort of conductive clothing but also minimizes the risk of allergic reactions, making it suitable for a wide range of applications beyond the healthcare sector. The company also offers simplified manufacturing kits, further promoting the use of its advanced materials in various industries.
Future Standard
Series C in 2019
Founded in Tokyo, Japan in March 2014, Future Standard operates a platform that facilitates image processing from cameras to data acquisition. The company specializes in developing video analysis AI for its cloud-based computer vision technologies and middleware.
TBA is a biotech firm that provides rapid genetic testing to create a safe and healthy community. They will work to strengthen the neighborhood and contribute to building a safe and healthy society. They will seek to spread awareness of the STH approach, which enables quick genetic testing and helps to build a safe and healthy society.
SpinSensingFactory
Venture Round in 2018
SpinSensingFactory develops, manufactures, and sells magnetic sensors and biological sensing systems. Based in Sendai, Japan, and founded in 2018, the company develops tunnel magnetoresistive effect sensors that are ultra-sensitive, compact, and lightweight, enabling industrial and medical applications.
PD Aerospace
Corporate Round in 2018
Founded in 2007, PD Aerospace is a Japanese company specializing in the development and manufacturing of rocket and spacecraft engines. It focuses on creating reusable suborbital spacecraft for space travel and experiments.
Ball Wave
Series B in 2018
Founded in 2015, Ball Wave specializes in developing and manufacturing sensors. Its product portfolio includes trace moisture sensors, mini sensors, and ball surface acoustic waves gas sensors.
JAMPT Corporation
Venture Round in 2018
JAMPT Corporation specializes in metal additive manufacturing by producing and selling metal AM powders and offering end-to-end services for metal 3D printing. The company supports customers with powder development, prototype modeling, contract modeling, material development, and product development, helping optimize manufacturing settings and enable mass production through metal AM technologies. Founded in 2017 and based in Tagajho, Japan, JAMPT collaborates with academic and industry partners to advance metal AM capabilities and quality.
Kringle Pharma
Venture Round in 2018
Kringle Pharma is a Japanese biopharmaceutical company focused on the research and development of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)–based protein medicines and NK4 therapies. The company aims to leverage HGF’s regenerative properties and NK4’s antiangiogenic activity to address organ repair and cancer indications. Its pipeline includes recombinant human HGF for acute renal failure, spinal cord injury, and CNS diseases, as well as recombinant NK4 and NK4 gene therapies for cancer. Founded in 2001, the company operates in the Japanese market.
RTi-cast
Venture Round in 2018
RTi-cast is a company focused on providing real-time data related to tsunami inundation and damage estimation systems. Its platform offers critical forecast information and calculation results that help individuals and organizations take necessary precautions against natural disasters. In addition to its data services, RTi-cast is involved in research, development, education, and consulting on disaster-related phenomena. The company's efforts aim to enhance public awareness and preparedness, enabling communities to better protect themselves from the impacts of tsunamis and other natural disasters.
AI Silk
Venture Round in 2018
AI Silk Corporation, established in 2015 and based in Sendai, Japan, specializes in the manufacture and sale of innovative conductive fibers. The company's flagship product, AI Silk, is created using a unique dyeing technique that imbues natural silk with conductivity. This advancement allows for the production of electrodes that address common issues associated with traditional medical electrodes, such as discomfort, skin irritation, and measurement inaccuracies caused by sweat. AI Silk’s technology not only enhances the comfort of conductive clothing but also minimizes the risk of allergic reactions, making it suitable for a wide range of applications beyond the healthcare sector. The company also offers simplified manufacturing kits, further promoting the use of its advanced materials in various industries.
Renascience
Venture Round in 2018
Renascience is a research and development firm focused on creating innovative medical solutions to address various health challenges. The company employs a range of modalities, including pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and artificial intelligence, to develop treatments and enhance patient care. By combining advanced research techniques with practical applications, Renascience aims to improve medical outcomes and contribute to the advancement of healthcare.
Ispace Technologies
Series A in 2018
Ispace Technologies is a Tokyo-based company specializing in space resource exploration, particularly focused on developing micro-robotic technology to facilitate the identification, extraction, and transportation of lunar resources, such as ice, essential for sustaining human life in space. Founded in 2013, Ispace is recognized for its innovative approach, utilizing 3D printing and commercially available products to create efficient and cost-effective solutions. The company is also involved in the Google Lunar XPRIZE Competition through its Team HAKUTO, which has gained recognition for its advancements in mobility and aims to land a privately funded robot on the Moon. Ispace’s micro-robots are designed to explore larger lunar areas quickly and economically, making significant strides towards establishing a sustainable presence in outer space.
Sendai Smart Machines
Venture Round in 2017
Sendai Smart Machines Co., Ltd. specializes in the development and manufacture of high-sensitivity sensors and sensor networks, focusing on the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). The company creates MEMS-based IoT devices, including innovative vibration energy harvesters designed to operate reliably in harsh environments, such as those found in automobiles, railways, and industrial plants. These devices facilitate continuous wireless data transmission without the need for wired power sources or battery charging, contributing to a safer and more efficient social infrastructure. By addressing the challenges of severe vibratory conditions, Sendai Smart Machines enables clients to monitor critical data effectively and sustainably.
Tohoku Magnet Institute
Venture Round in 2017
Tohoku Magnet Institute specializes in the development, manufacturing, sales, and licensing of ultra-low-loss soft magnetic materials, including ribbons and particulates. These advanced materials serve as magnetic core components for a variety of applications, including home appliances, industrial equipment, automobiles, and energy systems. By offering alternatives to traditional silicon steel sheets, Tohoku Magnet Institute's products enhance energy efficiency and improve performance in electrical devices. The company's innovative approach addresses the growing demand for energy-saving solutions in the electrical and electronics industries.
Pan Solution Technologies
Venture Round in 2017
Pan Solution Technologies specializes in the development of advanced evaluation technology for solar power generation and semiconductor manufacturing. The company produces materials for solar cells and inspection equipment designed to address challenges within the semiconductor industry. Its innovative technology measures energy conversion efficiency in silicon wafers and quantifies the number of electrons contributing to power generation through a singular parameter. This capability enables semiconductor manufacturers to enhance quality, reduce costs, and improve production efficiency. By focusing on both solar energy and semiconductor applications, Pan Solution Technologies aims to contribute to the advancement of sustainable energy solutions and optimize manufacturing processes.
HG Precision
Venture Round in 2017
HG Precision provides metal and injection molding manufactures, industrial and electronics manufactures,medical pharmaceutical and automotive and aircraft manufactures and automation equipment manufacturers.
Neu, Inc. operates a managed online cleaning platform that connects housekeepers and domestic workers with providers of vacation rental cleaning services. Founded in 2017 and based in Seattle, Washington, the company aims to streamline the cleaning industry by employing technology to bridge traditional methods with modern efficiencies. Neu focuses on enhancing the customer experience for vacation rental hosts through a user-friendly interface and a network of skilled cleaners. By positioning itself to disrupt the service industry, Neu aspires to become a leading entity in the cleaning sector.
Piezo Studio
Venture Round in 2017
Piezo Studio Inc. is a manufacturing company based in Sendai, Japan, specializing in the design, development, and pre-production of electronic devices. Founded in 2014, the company offers a range of products, including resonators, sensing devices, and material filters for low power wireless communications. In addition to its product offerings, Piezo Studio provides cut and polish services for crystals, as well as consulting and material evaluation services, enhancing its capabilities in material development. Through its comprehensive approach, the company aims to meet the diverse needs of the electronics market.
TMS Japan
Venture Round in 2017
TMS Co., Ltd. is a Tokyo-based clinical-stage biotechnology company specializing in the development of drug candidates and medical technologies derived from academic research. Founded in 2005, TMS focuses on fungus-derived small molecule compounds known as SMTPs, which exhibit dual modes of action, providing both thrombolytic and anti-inflammatory effects. The company's lead compound, TMS-007, is currently undergoing Phase IIa clinical trials for the treatment of acute ischemic stroke and is partnered with a prominent biotech firm. TMS aims to advance its innovative medical products to address significant health challenges.
TMS Co., Ltd., established in 2005 and headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, is a clinical-stage biotechnology company. It specializes in developing drug candidates and medical technologies derived from academic research. TMS focuses on a unique group of small molecule compounds, known as SMTPs, which exhibit both thrombolytic and anti-inflammatory properties. The company's lead compound, TMS-007, is currently in a Phase IIa clinical trial for the treatment of acute ischemic stroke, in partnership with Biogen.
Sendai Smart Machines
Venture Round in 2016
Sendai Smart Machines Co., Ltd. specializes in the development and manufacture of high-sensitivity sensors and sensor networks, focusing on the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). The company creates MEMS-based IoT devices, including innovative vibration energy harvesters designed to operate reliably in harsh environments, such as those found in automobiles, railways, and industrial plants. These devices facilitate continuous wireless data transmission without the need for wired power sources or battery charging, contributing to a safer and more efficient social infrastructure. By addressing the challenges of severe vibratory conditions, Sendai Smart Machines enables clients to monitor critical data effectively and sustainably.
HG Precision
Venture Round in 2016
HG Precision provides metal and injection molding manufactures, industrial and electronics manufactures,medical pharmaceutical and automotive and aircraft manufactures and automation equipment manufacturers.
Tohoku Magnet Institute
Venture Round in 2016
Tohoku Magnet Institute specializes in the development, manufacturing, sales, and licensing of ultra-low-loss soft magnetic materials, including ribbons and particulates. These advanced materials serve as magnetic core components for a variety of applications, including home appliances, industrial equipment, automobiles, and energy systems. By offering alternatives to traditional silicon steel sheets, Tohoku Magnet Institute's products enhance energy efficiency and improve performance in electrical devices. The company's innovative approach addresses the growing demand for energy-saving solutions in the electrical and electronics industries.
Ball Wave
Series A in 2016
Founded in 2015, Ball Wave specializes in developing and manufacturing sensors. Its product portfolio includes trace moisture sensors, mini sensors, and ball surface acoustic waves gas sensors.
HG Precision
Seed Round in 2016
HG Precision provides metal and injection molding manufactures, industrial and electronics manufactures,medical pharmaceutical and automotive and aircraft manufactures and automation equipment manufacturers.
HG Precision
Seed Round in 2016
HG Precision provides metal and injection molding manufactures, industrial and electronics manufactures,medical pharmaceutical and automotive and aircraft manufactures and automation equipment manufacturers.
Tohoku Magnet Institute
Venture Round in 2015
Tohoku Magnet Institute specializes in the development, manufacturing, sales, and licensing of ultra-low-loss soft magnetic materials, including ribbons and particulates. These advanced materials serve as magnetic core components for a variety of applications, including home appliances, industrial equipment, automobiles, and energy systems. By offering alternatives to traditional silicon steel sheets, Tohoku Magnet Institute's products enhance energy efficiency and improve performance in electrical devices. The company's innovative approach addresses the growing demand for energy-saving solutions in the electrical and electronics industries.
RevolKa is a biotechnology company that develops bio-based products and pharmaceuticals for the healthcare sector. It operates a protein engineering platform that blends evolutionary molecular biology with artificial intelligence to predict and evolve protein sequences, enabling multi-function optimization. This approach aims to accelerate the development of high-performance proteins beyond natural evolution, supporting therapeutics and vaccines through assisted protein engineering technology.