Global Brain

Global Brain is a Tokyo-based venture capital firm founded in 1998, specializing in early-stage investments across various sectors, including e-commerce, software, gaming, media, IoT, education, entertainment, and fintech. The firm has expanded its investment activities to the US and Asia, targeting series A-stage technology companies. Since its inception, Global Brain has invested in approximately 30 companies, achieving seven initial public offerings and seven mergers and acquisitions. The firm supports its portfolio companies by providing not only capital but also strategic guidance, partnerships, and team-building resources to help them reach their milestones. Global Brain is particularly adept in e-commerce, operating a platform called EC-PLANET, which encompasses several group companies, including a large online sports goods store and a logistics firm offering comprehensive fulfillment services. This network, along with Global Brain's connections to established Japanese companies, facilitates market entry for US and Asian businesses into Japan.

Kaori Akiba

Principal, Corporate Management Group

Tatsunori Arai

Director, Investment Group

Megumi Asatsuma

Corporate Management Group, Director

Anjani Bansal

Partner, India Office Representative

Brooke Beers

Partner

Takuji Chida

Director, Investment Groups

Hogil Doh

General Partner, Investment Group

Thomas Duong

Principal

Brian Flucht

Partner and Head, US Division

Daisuke Furukawa

Venture Partner

Hajime Furuya

Venture Partner

Kenji Hayashi

Principal, Investment Group

Shohei Hayashi

Partner

Harue Hayashi

Partner and Vice Chief Fund Management Officer

Yosuke Hirai

Director

Joopyo Hong

Partner Investment Group

Naoki Horie

Principal, Investment Group

Jang Hyeokjin

Principal, Investment Group

Shohei Ichimiya

Partner, US Office

Nozomu Ikuta

Principal

Kotona Inaida

Director, Fund Management Group

Tomoaki Ishikure

Investment Group Partner

Yoshinari Ito

Venture Partner

Yuki Ito

Director

Hiroyuki Izumi

Partner, Investment Group

Ken Kajii

General Partner, Investment Group

Naoki Kamimaeda

Partner and Europe Division Head

Masaru Kaneshiro

Principal

Daisuke Kashiro

Partner, Investment Group

Kirin Kato

Principal

Takashi Kato

Partner, San Francisco Office Representative

Masaya Kawakami

Partner

Hiroyuki Kawamoto

Principal

Ko Kawaragi

Director

Maiko Kayata

Principal

ByeongJin Kim

Principal, Fund Management Group

Jungyong Kim

Principal, Investment Group

Riichiro Kimura Ph.D

Director, Investment Group

Kenta Kitsuka

General Partner

Issei Kokubu

Principal, Investment Group

Yoshiomi Kubota

Principal

Jinya Kurita

Director

KyungHun Lee

Partner, South Korea Office Representative

YingQi Liang(Joy)

Principal, Investment Group

Chukaku Lin

Principal

Atsushi Matsuda

Venture Partner

Akira Matsumoto

Principal, Investment Group

Natsumi Matsuoka

Principal

Hiroshi Mihayashi

Principal

Tomoko Minagawa

Director, Investment Group

Ai Minamizaki

Principal, Investment Group

Shigeru Mitarai

Principal

Kazuhiko Miyama

General Partner

Shuhei Mori

Principal

Seiichiro Mukai

Director

Satoko Murata

Principal, Investment Group

Kohtaro Nagawa

Director, Investment Group

Tasuke Nakagawa

Partner / M&A

Mitsutaka Nakao

Principal, Investment Group

Shien Nakayama

Director, Investment Group

Yuya Namiki

Director

Ying Jian Ng

Director, Investment Group

Daisuke Nishida

Partner, Investment Group

Akiko Noguchi

Director, Corporate Management Group

Rina Obi

Investment Director

Sho Ohtani

Principal, Investment Group

Tetsui Okada

Director, Investments Group

Mayu Okamoto

Principal

Akane Okuyama

Director

Shingo Otaki

Partner, Investment Group

Naoki Sadakuni

Venture Partner

Enen Sai

Principal, Fund Management Group

Kazuki Sakuragawa

Partner and Editor in Chief, Corporate Management Group

Masumi Sato

Principal

Naoki Sato

Principal, Investment Group

Tomoki Sekiguchi

Principal

Rie Shibata

Director, Fund Management Group

Takeru Shigemura

Director

Miku Shimamura

Principal

Hiroshi Shimazu

Managing Director

Masamune Shin

General Partner, Investment Group

Ayu Shinoyama

CFO and Board Member

Chisa Shinsakaue

Director

Divyansh Singh

Principal

Hiroto Sorita

Director, Investment Group

Sachiko Sugiura

Principal

Yusuke Suzuki

Partner

Kazumo Tachibana

Director

Mana Takabayashi

Director, Investment Group

Hiroki Takai

Director, Investment Group London Office

Toko Takao

Principal

Hideyuki Tanaka

Principal

Marika Tazaki

Partner

Hirotaka Togashi

Director, Investment Group

Haruka Tsujii

Principal

Atsushi Ueda

Principal, Investment Group

Takuya Ukai

Principal, Investment Group

Tetsuya Urimoto

Director, Investment Group

Noriko Usui

Partner and Chief Fund Management Officer

Keita Washizu

Principal

Hirokazu Watanabe

Partner

Keita Wazhizu

Principal, Investment Group

Masao Yamada

Senior Partner, Investment Groups

Kazunori Yamaguchi

Partner, Investment Group

Ryozo Yamamoto

Partner, Investment Group

Michiko Yamazaki

Principal, Investment Group

Isao Yasuda

Senior Partner

Takuro Yoda

Principal, Investment Group

Sayaka Yoshino

Director

Miku Yoshio

Partner, Investment Group

Yasuhiko Yurimoto

Founder and President and CEO & Board Member

Miyazawa Yusuke

Venture Partner

Lusheng Zou

Director, Investment Group

Past deals in 3D Technology

Mojo Vision

Series B in 2022
Mojo Vision is a company based in Saratoga, California, that specializes in augmented reality products and platforms. Founded in 2015, it has developed a smart contact lens featuring a built-in display that provides timely information without disrupting the user's focus. This innovative technology enables users to receive immediate and relevant information, facilitating hands-free communication and interaction. By minimizing the distractions associated with traditional mobile devices, Mojo Vision aims to enhance connectivity and accessibility for users in various environments.

DataMesh

Series B in 2022
Founded in 2014, DataMesh is a startup company that focuses on empowering first-line workers with Mixed Reality and AI. With DataMesh Digital Twin platform, we are changing how people work with new knowledge and data. We believe in a future where the digital world can perfectly match the real world to create unlimited potential.

QunaSys

Series B in 2022
Quantum physics is a relatively new field built since the beginning of the 20th century, but we have used MRI (nuclear magnetic resonance equipment) and lasers used for close examinations in hospitals, and semiconductors mounted on computers. Supports the technology that supports the daily life of people.QunaSys was established to bring out the quantum physics that has been active behind the scenes to the front stage, and to make use of quantum properties to realize technologies that could not be achieved with existing technologies.

Cloudpick

Series B in 2022
Yuna Technology is a high-tech enterprise specializing in the development of computer vision and artificial intelligence applications. The company is committed to leading the technological breakthrough of the core knowledge of artificial intelligence, and building an overall application solution for artificial intelligence and big data analysis in multiple industries.

SiLC

Series A in 2021
SiLC Technologies is a Silicon Photonics start up focusing on photonic Sensor and 3D imaging applications. It develops new and novel technologies and integrated solutions to address the growing needs of an autonomous and smart new world.

Psychic VR Lab

Venture Round in 2021
Psychic VR Lab is a startup company that handles fashion VR and MR shopping service STYLY. They are creating a future where they will live in space.

LetinAR

Series B in 2021
LetinAR Co., Ltd., founded in 2016 and based in Seoul, South Korea, specializes in the development of augmented reality (AR) smart glasses. The company has introduced innovative technology known as PinMR™ lens, which addresses common limitations of existing AR products, such as bulkiness and inadequate functionality. LetinAR's proprietary pin mirror technology reflects light from a microdisplay and directs it into users' pupils using the pinhole effect, allowing for enhanced optic control during AR experiences. By focusing on creating lightweight, user-friendly designs, LetinAR aims to provide a seamless integration of augmented reality into everyday life, effectively replacing traditional smartphone displays with advanced smart glasses.

Mojo Vision

Series C in 2020
Mojo Vision is a company based in Saratoga, California, that specializes in augmented reality products and platforms. Founded in 2015, it has developed a smart contact lens featuring a built-in display that provides timely information without disrupting the user's focus. This innovative technology enables users to receive immediate and relevant information, facilitating hands-free communication and interaction. By minimizing the distractions associated with traditional mobile devices, Mojo Vision aims to enhance connectivity and accessibility for users in various environments.

QunaSys

Series A in 2019
Quantum physics is a relatively new field built since the beginning of the 20th century, but we have used MRI (nuclear magnetic resonance equipment) and lasers used for close examinations in hospitals, and semiconductors mounted on computers. Supports the technology that supports the daily life of people.QunaSys was established to bring out the quantum physics that has been active behind the scenes to the front stage, and to make use of quantum properties to realize technologies that could not be achieved with existing technologies.

Pixie Dust Technologies

Series A in 2019
Pixie Dust Technologies, Inc. is a Tokyo-based company that specializes in the development of innovative technologies, particularly in phased array and digital fabrication. Founded in 2015, it has created an ultrasonic phased array system that enables the generation of force in mid-air, allowing for applications such as non-contact transportation of objects, targeted sound delivery among individuals in a crowd, and guidance for service animals. The company also offers various consumer products, including Sound Hug, a device that combines music with light and vibration; Sonorepro, a hair care tool utilizing non-contact oscillating pressure; Vuevo, which visualizes conversations for improved communication; and kikippa, a gamma wave sound care device. Through these technologies, Pixie Dust Technologies aims to enhance user experiences by integrating sound and light into everyday interactions.

4DReplay

Venture Round in 2019
4DReplay, Inc. is a company based in San Francisco, California, that specializes in developing advanced visual processing systems for creating dynamic, four-dimensional videos. Founded in 2016, the company focuses on producing time-slicing videos that deliver highlights from any time and angle with exceptional detail. Its innovative technology integrates a network of 4K cameras and user-friendly video editing software, allowing for multi-angle and time-sliced video production across various sectors, including professional sports, commercials, and entertainment. This system enables clients to remotely control and synchronize high-speed visual processing, facilitating an enhanced viewing experience that allows audiences to access video content from multiple perspectives on mobile devices.

Araya

Series B in 2019
ARAYA Brain Imaging, Inc. is a Tokyo-based company that specializes in developing artificial intelligence software solutions, focusing on a combination of neuroscience and information science. Founded in 2013, ARAYA offers a range of services centered around deep learning technologies, including real-time image recognition and neuro-based marketing. The company provides NeuroProfile, a web-based tool for personalized neuroprediction based on anatomical brain scans, as well as support for MRI analysis and big data analysis. Additionally, ARAYA develops tools and software for brain imaging analysis. Its proprietary deep learning compression technology enhances the efficiency of AI algorithms while maintaining high accuracy, positioning ARAYA at the forefront of next-generation artificial intelligence that aims to bridge the gap towards artificial consciousness.

exiii

Seed Round in 2018
exiii Inc. develops functional prosthetic hands. The company was founded on October 29, 2014 and is based in Tokyo, Japan.

4DReplay

Venture Round in 2017
4DReplay, Inc. is a company based in San Francisco, California, that specializes in developing advanced visual processing systems for creating dynamic, four-dimensional videos. Founded in 2016, the company focuses on producing time-slicing videos that deliver highlights from any time and angle with exceptional detail. Its innovative technology integrates a network of 4K cameras and user-friendly video editing software, allowing for multi-angle and time-sliced video production across various sectors, including professional sports, commercials, and entertainment. This system enables clients to remotely control and synchronize high-speed visual processing, facilitating an enhanced viewing experience that allows audiences to access video content from multiple perspectives on mobile devices.

4DReplay

Series A in 2017
4DReplay, Inc. is a company based in San Francisco, California, that specializes in developing advanced visual processing systems for creating dynamic, four-dimensional videos. Founded in 2016, the company focuses on producing time-slicing videos that deliver highlights from any time and angle with exceptional detail. Its innovative technology integrates a network of 4K cameras and user-friendly video editing software, allowing for multi-angle and time-sliced video production across various sectors, including professional sports, commercials, and entertainment. This system enables clients to remotely control and synchronize high-speed visual processing, facilitating an enhanced viewing experience that allows audiences to access video content from multiple perspectives on mobile devices.

Hacosco

Venture Round in 2017
Hacosco Inc., founded in 2014 and based in Tokyo, Japan, specializes in the development, planning, sales, and management of virtual reality services. The company provides accessible VR experiences through its smartphone-based VR service, which utilizes a simple viewer compatible with mobile devices. This innovation allows users to experience virtual reality without the need for expensive head-mounted displays or complex setups, making VR more approachable for the general public. Hacosco's product offerings include VR goggles and 360-degree cameras, catering to a growing demand for immersive technology that is both user-friendly and affordable.

Araya

Series A in 2017
ARAYA Brain Imaging, Inc. is a Tokyo-based company that specializes in developing artificial intelligence software solutions, focusing on a combination of neuroscience and information science. Founded in 2013, ARAYA offers a range of services centered around deep learning technologies, including real-time image recognition and neuro-based marketing. The company provides NeuroProfile, a web-based tool for personalized neuroprediction based on anatomical brain scans, as well as support for MRI analysis and big data analysis. Additionally, ARAYA develops tools and software for brain imaging analysis. Its proprietary deep learning compression technology enhances the efficiency of AI algorithms while maintaining high accuracy, positioning ARAYA at the forefront of next-generation artificial intelligence that aims to bridge the gap towards artificial consciousness.

Tricol

Venture Round in 2017
Tricol Co., Ltd. develops virtual reality content. The company's products include PLANNES, a game of zero-gravity tennis; Counter Fight, a fast-paced virtual reality game where the user cooks and serves a variety of dishes to eccentric hungry customers; and Free Throw Bomber, a ball-throwing game. The company was founded in 2016 and is based in Tokyo, Japan.

Araya

Venture Round in 2016
ARAYA Brain Imaging, Inc. is a Tokyo-based company that specializes in developing artificial intelligence software solutions, focusing on a combination of neuroscience and information science. Founded in 2013, ARAYA offers a range of services centered around deep learning technologies, including real-time image recognition and neuro-based marketing. The company provides NeuroProfile, a web-based tool for personalized neuroprediction based on anatomical brain scans, as well as support for MRI analysis and big data analysis. Additionally, ARAYA develops tools and software for brain imaging analysis. Its proprietary deep learning compression technology enhances the efficiency of AI algorithms while maintaining high accuracy, positioning ARAYA at the forefront of next-generation artificial intelligence that aims to bridge the gap towards artificial consciousness.

LivingStyle

Series A in 2016
LivingStyle, Inc. is a Tokyo-based company that specializes in interior layout simulation services. Founded in 2007, it has developed a web-based application platform that utilizes three-dimensional technology to assist customers in interior design. The platform enables users to simulate and visualize various floor plan arrangements, facilitating informed decisions about furniture selection based on room dimensions. By providing these tools, LivingStyle aims to enhance the interior coordination process for its clients.

Hacosco

Venture Round in 2016
Hacosco Inc., founded in 2014 and based in Tokyo, Japan, specializes in the development, planning, sales, and management of virtual reality services. The company provides accessible VR experiences through its smartphone-based VR service, which utilizes a simple viewer compatible with mobile devices. This innovation allows users to experience virtual reality without the need for expensive head-mounted displays or complex setups, making VR more approachable for the general public. Hacosco's product offerings include VR goggles and 360-degree cameras, catering to a growing demand for immersive technology that is both user-friendly and affordable.

Kabuku

Series A in 2015
Kabuku Inc. is a Tokyo-based company that specializes in on-demand manufacturing services and 3D printing solutions. Founded in 2013, it operates through three main service platforms: Rinkak Business, Rinkak Factory, and Rinkak Marketplace. The company offers a comprehensive range of services including consulting, 3D design, production, shipping, and after-sales support via its Kabuku Connect service, which utilizes a global network of manufacturing partners. Additionally, the Kabuku MMS platform streamlines essential tasks for 3D printing service bureaus and manufacturers, covering quotation, order management, and invoicing. Kabuku also runs Rinkak.com, a digital marketplace where users can order a variety of 3D models. The company has collaborated with notable brands and agencies such as Dentsu, Toyota, and Fuji TV, establishing a strong presence in the 3D printing industry across 30 countries. As of September 2017, Kabuku operates as a subsidiary of Futaba Corporation.

Kabuku

Seed Round in 2015
Kabuku Inc. is a Tokyo-based company that specializes in on-demand manufacturing services and 3D printing solutions. Founded in 2013, it operates through three main service platforms: Rinkak Business, Rinkak Factory, and Rinkak Marketplace. The company offers a comprehensive range of services including consulting, 3D design, production, shipping, and after-sales support via its Kabuku Connect service, which utilizes a global network of manufacturing partners. Additionally, the Kabuku MMS platform streamlines essential tasks for 3D printing service bureaus and manufacturers, covering quotation, order management, and invoicing. Kabuku also runs Rinkak.com, a digital marketplace where users can order a variety of 3D models. The company has collaborated with notable brands and agencies such as Dentsu, Toyota, and Fuji TV, establishing a strong presence in the 3D printing industry across 30 countries. As of September 2017, Kabuku operates as a subsidiary of Futaba Corporation.

Mist Technologies

Venture Round in 2015
Mist Technologies, Inc. is a Tokyo-based company that specializes in content delivery services, leveraging peer-to-peer data delivery technology. Founded in 2013, the company offers a range of products designed to enhance video playback and content sharing. Its offerings include the Mist Inline Player for video playback on mobile devices, a 360° Sphere Video Player for immersive video experiences, and a Video Thumbnailer that creates lightweight video thumbnails. Additionally, Mist Technologies provides MistCDN, a browser-based content delivery solution, and Webdrop, a tool for file exchange between browsers on the same local area network. As a subsidiary of Adways Inc., Mist Technologies focuses on enabling faster and more efficient content distribution among users in close geographical proximity.

Mist Technologies

Venture Round in 2014
Mist Technologies, Inc. is a Tokyo-based company that specializes in content delivery services, leveraging peer-to-peer data delivery technology. Founded in 2013, the company offers a range of products designed to enhance video playback and content sharing. Its offerings include the Mist Inline Player for video playback on mobile devices, a 360° Sphere Video Player for immersive video experiences, and a Video Thumbnailer that creates lightweight video thumbnails. Additionally, Mist Technologies provides MistCDN, a browser-based content delivery solution, and Webdrop, a tool for file exchange between browsers on the same local area network. As a subsidiary of Adways Inc., Mist Technologies focuses on enabling faster and more efficient content distribution among users in close geographical proximity.

3rdKind

Venture Round in 2014
3rdKind Inc. is a Japanese smartphone game publisher established in 2011 and based in Tokyo. The company specializes in providing marketing, localization, and development support for international game developers aiming to enter the Japanese market. Its services include publicizing games on major Japanese app stores, such as App Store and Google Play, and assisting with various aspects of game promotion, including sales forecasting, media tours, and cultural adaptation. By collaborating with partners like KDDI, 3rdKind helps overseas developers successfully launch and distribute their mobile games, ensuring they resonate with local audiences.

3rdKind

Venture Round in 2013
3rdKind Inc. is a Japanese smartphone game publisher established in 2011 and based in Tokyo. The company specializes in providing marketing, localization, and development support for international game developers aiming to enter the Japanese market. Its services include publicizing games on major Japanese app stores, such as App Store and Google Play, and assisting with various aspects of game promotion, including sales forecasting, media tours, and cultural adaptation. By collaborating with partners like KDDI, 3rdKind helps overseas developers successfully launch and distribute their mobile games, ensuring they resonate with local audiences.
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