Global Brain Corporation, founded in 1998 and based in Tokyo, Japan, is a venture capital firm that focuses on investing in seed, early, and later-stage startups. The firm has a diverse portfolio, having invested in over 300 companies across various sectors, including e-commerce, software, gaming, media, IoT, disruptive technology, education, entertainment, and fintech. Global Brain is recognized for its hands-on support approach, which has contributed to 25 initial public offerings and 61 mergers and acquisitions among its portfolio companies. In addition to managing traditional investment funds, Global Brain also provides Venture Capital as a Service (VCaaS) solutions and collaborates with leading public companies in sectors such as telecommunications, real estate, financial services, beverages, agriculture, logistics, and electronic devices.
Investment Group Partner and Fellow Chief of Space Lab
Tatsunori Arai
Director
Megumi Asatsuma
Director
Anjani Bansal
Partner / India Office Representative
Brooke Beers
Partner
Takuji Chida
Director
Hogil Doh
General Partner
Thomas Duong
Principal
Brian Flucht
Partner / US Division Head
Hajime Furuya
Venture Partner
Kenji Hayashi
Principal
Shohei Hayashi
Partner
Harue Hayashi
Partner / Vice Chief Fund Management Officer
Jie He
Director China office Representative
Yosuke Hirai
Director
Joopyo Hong
Partner Investment Group
Naoki Horie
Principal
Jang Hyeokjin
Principal
Shohei Ichimiya
Partner / US Office
Nozomu Ikuta
Principal
Kotona Inaida
Director
Tomoaki Ishikure
Partner
Yoshinari Ito
Venture Partner
Yuki Ito
Director
Hiroyuki Izumi
Partner
Ken Kajii
General Partner
Naoki Kamimaeda
Partner and Europe Division Head
Daisuke Kashiro
General Partner
Kirin Kato
Principal
Takashi Kato
Partner, San Francisco Office Representative
Masaya Kawakami
Principal, Investment Group
Hiroyuki Kawamoto
Principal
Ko Kawaragi
Director
Maiko Kayata
Principal
ByeongJin Kim
Principal
Riichiro Kimura
Director / US NY Office
Kenta Kitsuka
General Partner
Issei Kokubu
Director
Yoshiomi Kubota
Principal
Jiro Kumakura
General Partner and Board Member
Jinya Kurita
Director
KyungHun Lee
Partner
YingQi Liang(Joy)
Principal
Chukaku Lin
Director
Atsushi Matsuda
Venture Partner
Tatsuya Matsumoto
Partner / Singapore Office Representative
Akira Matsumoto
Principal
Yuki Matsuo
Director
Natsumi Matsuoka
Principal
Tomoko Minagawa
Director
Ai Minamizaki
Principal
Shigeru Mitarai
Director
Kazuhiko Miyama
General Partner
Shuhei Mori
Principal
Seiichiro Mukai
Director
Satoko Murata
Principal, Investment Group
Kohtaro Nagawa
Director
Mitsutaka Nakao
Principal, Investment Group
Shien Nakayama
Director
Yuya Namiki
Director
Ying Jian Ng
Director
Daisuke Nishida
General Partner
Yukari Nishiyama
Director, Investment Group
Akiko Noguchi
Director
Rina Obi
Investment Group Director, Berlin Office
Sho Ohtani
Principal
Tetsui Okada
Director
Mayu Okamoto
Director
Akane Okuyama
Director
Shingo Otaki
Partner
Rampalli Karthik
Principal
Naoki Sadakuni
Venture Partner
Enen Sai
Principal
Youichi Sakagawa
Director, Investment Group
Kazuki Sakuragawa
Partner / Editor in Chief
Masumi Sato
Principal
Naoki Sato
Principal, Investment Group
Tomoki Sekiguchi
Principal
Rie Shibata
Director
Takeru Shigemura
Director
Miku Shimamura
Principal
Masamune Shin
General Partner
Ayu Shinoyama
CFO and Board Member
Chisa Shinsakaue
Director
Divyansh Singh
Principal
Hiroto Sorita
Director
Sachiko Sugiura
Director
Yusuke Suzuki
Partner
Kazumo Tachibana
Director
Mana Takabayashi
Director
Hiroki Takai
Director
Toko Takao
Principal
Hideyuki Tanaka
Director
Marika Tazaki
Partner
Hirotaka Togashi
Director
Haruka Tsujii
Director
Atsushi Ueda Ph.D
Principal, Investment Group
Takuya Ukai
Principal, Investment Group
Tetsuya Urimoto
Director
Noriko Usui
Partner / Chief Fund Management Officer
Keita Washizu
Principal
Masao Yamada
Senior Partner
Kazunori Yamaguchi
Partner, Investment Group
Kazunor Yamaguchi
Partner
Ryozo Yamamoto
Partner
Michiko Yamazaki
Principal, Investment Group
Takuro Yoda
Principal, Investment Group
Sayaka Yoshino
Director
Miku Yoshio
Partner
Miyazawa Yusuke
Venture Partner
Lusheng Zou
Director
Takuya Hosomura
Partner
Sho Ikeda
Partner / Indonesia Office Representative
Past deals in Internet of Things
Mode
Series B in 2025
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.
SCADAfence
Venture Round in 2023
SCADAfence Ltd. develops cybersecurity solutions specifically designed to protect the industrial Internet of Things (IoT) in manufacturing industries and critical infrastructure. Founded in 2014 and based in Be'er Sheva, Israel, SCADAfence serves various sectors, including power, oil and gas, water, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing. The company's comprehensive platform provides network monitoring, asset discovery, governance, remote access, and IoT device security, effectively addressing the unique challenges faced by large-scale operational technology networks. By enhancing visibility and enabling proactive security measures, SCADAfence helps organizations mitigate risks associated with operational downtime, data theft, and cyber-attacks, allowing them to operate securely and efficiently. Recognized as a leader in the field, SCADAfence has been acknowledged for its innovative contributions to OT and IoT cybersecurity.
Metro Weather
Series A in 2022
Metro Weather is a venture originating from Kyoto University focused on developing advanced atmospheric measurement equipment. The company specializes in a high-performance Doppler lidar system designed to accurately measure wind direction and speed from several tens of kilometers away by analyzing minute movements of fine particles in the atmosphere. By integrating remote sensing technology with signal processing, Metro Weather aims to create a comprehensive three-dimensional wind map, a novel achievement in the field of meteorology. This innovative approach combines meteorological data with Internet of Things (IoT) capabilities, allowing clients to receive detailed insights into weather conditions, thereby enhancing safety and operational efficiency in various sectors affected by wind patterns.
DataMesh
Series B in 2022
DataMesh is a leading company focused on advanced digital twin and mixed reality solutions that enhance operations, training, and maintenance across various industries. Its flagship platform, FactVerse, combines real-time data with immersive 3D environments to create precise simulations and effective workflows. This innovative approach allows businesses in manufacturing, construction, and facility management to significantly improve productivity and streamline processes. DataMesh offers a comprehensive suite of tools, including DataMesh Director, Checklist, Inspector, and Simulator, which facilitate seamless implementation and robust performance. By leveraging technologies such as AI, augmented reality, and the Internet of Things, DataMesh is at the forefront of digital transformation, driving innovation and efficiency in its target sectors.
Girasol Energy
Seed Round in 2021
Girasol Energy Inc., founded in 2017 and based in Tokyo, Japan, specializes in the development and installation of an Internet of Things (IoT) platform tailored for photovoltaic plants. The company's innovative technology utilizes solar radiation statistics derived from satellite data, making it applicable across Japan. Girasol Energy's platform features a cloud engine that collects data from sensor networks, allowing for detailed analysis at the individual panel level. By employing an artificial intelligence engine, it automatically identifies abnormalities and degradation in photovoltaic panels. This capability enables businesses to monitor their solar panel modules remotely, offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional consulting services in 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.
Girasol Energy
Series A in 2021
Girasol Energy Inc., founded in 2017 and based in Tokyo, Japan, specializes in the development and installation of an Internet of Things (IoT) platform tailored for photovoltaic plants. The company's innovative technology utilizes solar radiation statistics derived from satellite data, making it applicable across Japan. Girasol Energy's platform features a cloud engine that collects data from sensor networks, allowing for detailed analysis at the individual panel level. By employing an artificial intelligence engine, it automatically identifies abnormalities and degradation in photovoltaic panels. This capability enables businesses to monitor their solar panel modules remotely, offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional consulting services in the industry.
SCADAfence
Series B in 2021
SCADAfence Ltd. develops cybersecurity solutions specifically designed to protect the industrial Internet of Things (IoT) in manufacturing industries and critical infrastructure. Founded in 2014 and based in Be'er Sheva, Israel, SCADAfence serves various sectors, including power, oil and gas, water, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing. The company's comprehensive platform provides network monitoring, asset discovery, governance, remote access, and IoT device security, effectively addressing the unique challenges faced by large-scale operational technology networks. By enhancing visibility and enabling proactive security measures, SCADAfence helps organizations mitigate risks associated with operational downtime, data theft, and cyber-attacks, allowing them to operate securely and efficiently. Recognized as a leader in the field, SCADAfence has been acknowledged for its innovative contributions to OT and IoT cybersecurity.
Aroma Bit
Venture Round in 2021
Aroma Bit, Inc. is a Tokyo-based company that specializes in the development, production, and sale of electronic equipment, particularly compact odor imaging sensors. The company focuses on digitizing smell through innovative technology that converts various odors into visual patterns, allowing for the collection of digital olfactory data. This technology enables businesses to identify ingredients in food through a simple touch device and assists healthcare providers in detecting diseases. Aroma Bit's products and services aim to enhance the understanding and utilization of the olfactory sense, which is often overlooked despite the variety of scents present in everyday life.
Mode
Series A in 2020
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.
Idein
Venture Round in 2020
Idein Inc. is a technology company based in Chiyoda, Japan, focused on developing a platform as a service that empowers users to create their own Internet of Things (IoT) systems integrated with advanced artificial intelligence analysis. Founded in 2015, Idein utilizes pattern recognition and signal processing technologies to enhance real-world event management through software. Its platform includes a dashboard, software development kit (SDK), and a marketplace, facilitating the rapid deployment of machine learning models on affordable edge devices. This approach allows for efficient data sensing and analysis while addressing concerns related to data communication, privacy, and large-scale processing. By enabling clients to quickly and effectively build edge computing systems, Idein aims to make advanced sensing technologies more accessible and cost-effective for everyday use.
Koska
Series A in 2020
Koska is a service that automates highly accurate cost calculation without trouble in the IoT system.
GeoSpock
Venture Round in 2020
GeoSpock is a developer of a cloud-native analytics database designed for handling geospatial big data and complex real-world analytics. Its primary product, GeoSpock DB, facilitates the fusion of various Internet of Things (IoT) data sources, allowing users to unlock the full value of their data while minimizing complexity and costs. The platform supports efficient data storage and rapid access, enabling users to execute ANSI SQL queries and connect seamlessly with standard analytics tools through flexible JDBC/ODBC connectors. It offers compatibility with popular business intelligence tools like Tableau, Amazon QuickSight, and Microsoft Power BI, as well as data science environments such as Python Notebooks and Apache Spark. GeoSpock DB can also be integrated with proprietary applications and internal tools, supporting open-source visualization libraries like Kepler and Cesium.js, thereby enhancing data analysis and insight sharing for its clients.
Photosynth
Series D 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.
bitkey
Series A in 2020
Bitkey, Inc. is a technology company based in Chuo-ku, Japan, founded in 2018. It specializes in developing a smart lock device that utilizes blockchain technology and encryption to create a digital key infrastructure. The company's innovative platform is designed to enhance connectivity by integrating digital platforms and smart devices, allowing for seamless identification and authorization through a single identity document. Bitkey's products are applicable in various settings, including homes, offices, and hotels, and aim to improve convenience in workplace environments. Additionally, the platform facilitates the digitalization of existing locks and integrates tenant applications with real estate management systems, enabling services such as parcel delivery and housekeeping even in the absence of tenants.
Idein
Venture Round in 2019
Idein Inc. is a technology company based in Chiyoda, Japan, focused on developing a platform as a service that empowers users to create their own Internet of Things (IoT) systems integrated with advanced artificial intelligence analysis. Founded in 2015, Idein utilizes pattern recognition and signal processing technologies to enhance real-world event management through software. Its platform includes a dashboard, software development kit (SDK), and a marketplace, facilitating the rapid deployment of machine learning models on affordable edge devices. This approach allows for efficient data sensing and analysis while addressing concerns related to data communication, privacy, and large-scale processing. By enabling clients to quickly and effectively build edge computing systems, Idein aims to make advanced sensing technologies more accessible and cost-effective for everyday use.
UnaBiz
Venture Round in 2019
UnaBiz Pte Ltd is an Internet of Things (IoT) solutions provider based in Singapore, with an additional office in Taipei, Taiwan. Founded in 2016, the company specializes in product design, manufacturing, and connectivity solutions, particularly through its partnership with SIGFOX to offer low-power wide-area network services. UnaBiz develops a range of wireless infrastructure and devices, including solutions for smart metering, asset management, and supply chain monitoring. Its product offerings include Unashield, UnaBell, ModBus Reader, GPS trackers, and various chipsets and modules. The company caters to various sectors, including healthcare, agriculture, utilities, and building management, focusing on cost efficiency and sustainability to empower businesses in their operational growth.
PebbleBee
Seed Round in 2019
Pebblebee, founded in 2013 and based in Seattle, Washington, specializes in trackable technologies for both consumers and enterprises. The company develops smart tracking devices designed to monitor valuable items, providing users with peace of mind. Pebblebee's products are characterized by their long battery life and ease of attachment to various belongings, allowing individuals and businesses to efficiently track their possessions.
GeoSpock
Series B in 2019
GeoSpock is a developer of a cloud-native analytics database designed for handling geospatial big data and complex real-world analytics. Its primary product, GeoSpock DB, facilitates the fusion of various Internet of Things (IoT) data sources, allowing users to unlock the full value of their data while minimizing complexity and costs. The platform supports efficient data storage and rapid access, enabling users to execute ANSI SQL queries and connect seamlessly with standard analytics tools through flexible JDBC/ODBC connectors. It offers compatibility with popular business intelligence tools like Tableau, Amazon QuickSight, and Microsoft Power BI, as well as data science environments such as Python Notebooks and Apache Spark. GeoSpock DB can also be integrated with proprietary applications and internal tools, supporting open-source visualization libraries like Kepler and Cesium.js, thereby enhancing data analysis and insight sharing for its clients.
Sonas
Series A in 2018
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.
UnaBiz
Series A in 2018
UnaBiz Pte Ltd is an Internet of Things (IoT) solutions provider based in Singapore, with an additional office in Taipei, Taiwan. Founded in 2016, the company specializes in product design, manufacturing, and connectivity solutions, particularly through its partnership with SIGFOX to offer low-power wide-area network services. UnaBiz develops a range of wireless infrastructure and devices, including solutions for smart metering, asset management, and supply chain monitoring. Its product offerings include Unashield, UnaBell, ModBus Reader, GPS trackers, and various chipsets and modules. The company caters to various sectors, including healthcare, agriculture, utilities, and building management, focusing on cost efficiency and sustainability to empower businesses in their operational growth.
Balena
Series A in 2018
Balena Inc. operates a platform that provides comprehensive tools for building, deploying, and managing fleets of connected Internet of Things (IoT) devices. The company offers a range of products, including balenaCloud, balenaOS, balenaFin, balenaEngine, balenaEtcher, and openbalena, which facilitate application development, device deployment, and management for fleet owners. Balena's infrastructure enables developers to focus on application growth while managing, monitoring, and updating devices through a web dashboard, API, CLI, and SDK. The platform supports Linux containers and open technologies, allowing for seamless firmware deployment and compatibility with various programming languages and libraries. Founded in 2013 and based in Seattle, Washington, Balena also has offices in Greece and the United Kingdom. The company was previously known as Resin, Inc. until its rebranding in October 2018.
GeoSpock
Series A in 2018
GeoSpock is a developer of a cloud-native analytics database designed for handling geospatial big data and complex real-world analytics. Its primary product, GeoSpock DB, facilitates the fusion of various Internet of Things (IoT) data sources, allowing users to unlock the full value of their data while minimizing complexity and costs. The platform supports efficient data storage and rapid access, enabling users to execute ANSI SQL queries and connect seamlessly with standard analytics tools through flexible JDBC/ODBC connectors. It offers compatibility with popular business intelligence tools like Tableau, Amazon QuickSight, and Microsoft Power BI, as well as data science environments such as Python Notebooks and Apache Spark. GeoSpock DB can also be integrated with proprietary applications and internal tools, supporting open-source visualization libraries like Kepler and Cesium.js, thereby enhancing data analysis and insight sharing for its clients.
SCADAfence
Series A in 2017
SCADAfence Ltd. develops cybersecurity solutions specifically designed to protect the industrial Internet of Things (IoT) in manufacturing industries and critical infrastructure. Founded in 2014 and based in Be'er Sheva, Israel, SCADAfence serves various sectors, including power, oil and gas, water, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing. The company's comprehensive platform provides network monitoring, asset discovery, governance, remote access, and IoT device security, effectively addressing the unique challenges faced by large-scale operational technology networks. By enhancing visibility and enabling proactive security measures, SCADAfence helps organizations mitigate risks associated with operational downtime, data theft, and cyber-attacks, allowing them to operate securely and efficiently. Recognized as a leader in the field, SCADAfence has been acknowledged for its innovative contributions to OT and IoT cybersecurity.
Enlighted
Series C in 2017
Enlighted Inc. manufactures advanced lighting control systems for commercial environments, both in the United States and internationally. Founded in 2009 and based in Sunnyvale, California, the company specializes in IoT sensory technology that integrates lighting and environmental controls to enhance building efficiency. Its products include Enlighted Sensors, which gather data on occupancy, ambient light, temperature, and energy consumption; Enlighted Room Control devices that allow users to adjust lighting levels; and the Enlighted Gateway, which aggregates data for analysis. Additionally, Enlighted offers Energy Managers, a web-based platform for managing lighting systems and optimizing performance. The company aims to help clients achieve sustainability goals while reducing energy costs, with reported savings of up to 70% in some cases. Enlighted's sensors have been deployed in numerous commercial spaces, including those of Fortune 1000 companies. Since May 2018, Enlighted operates as a subsidiary of Siemens Industry, Inc.
Idein
Venture Round in 2017
Idein Inc. is a technology company based in Chiyoda, Japan, focused on developing a platform as a service that empowers users to create their own Internet of Things (IoT) systems integrated with advanced artificial intelligence analysis. Founded in 2015, Idein utilizes pattern recognition and signal processing technologies to enhance real-world event management through software. Its platform includes a dashboard, software development kit (SDK), and a marketplace, facilitating the rapid deployment of machine learning models on affordable edge devices. This approach allows for efficient data sensing and analysis while addressing concerns related to data communication, privacy, and large-scale processing. By enabling clients to quickly and effectively build edge computing systems, Idein aims to make advanced sensing technologies more accessible and cost-effective for everyday use.
XSHELL
Seed Round in 2016
Xshell is engaged in the Internet of Things (IoT) software and hardware development business. The company was founded in 2014 and is based in Tokyo, Japan. Xshell is a design and hardware company whose main business is software development know-how. There are several components in IoT: network, computing, enclosure, and software. Xshell has all the skills and know-how to connect data of things and things to the Internet, to accumulate data and to provide feedback.
XSHELL
Seed Round in 2015
Xshell is engaged in the Internet of Things (IoT) software and hardware development business. The company was founded in 2014 and is based in Tokyo, Japan. Xshell is a design and hardware company whose main business is software development know-how. There are several components in IoT: network, computing, enclosure, and software. Xshell has all the skills and know-how to connect data of things and things to the Internet, to accumulate data and to provide feedback.
Awair
Seed Round in 2015
Awair is a company dedicated to improving indoor air quality (IAQ) for individuals in various environments, including homes, schools, and workplaces. Headquartered in San Francisco, with an additional office in Seoul, Awair develops advanced indoor air monitoring devices that measure key factors such as temperature, humidity, carbon dioxide, volatile organic compounds, and dust. These devices provide users with actionable insights and easy-to-understand software, empowering them to enhance their indoor air quality for better health and safety. By focusing on user-friendly technology and comprehensive monitoring, Awair aims to ensure that people can breathe safely indoors.
16Lab
Seed Round in 2014
16Lab Inc., based in Kamakura, Japan, designs and develops the OZON, a smart wearable device that enables users to control various electronic devices, including computers, smartphones, cameras, and lighting systems, through gestures and hand movements. The company specializes in ultra-low power, high-precision 3D motion analysis technology and embedded security, providing an integrated platform for IoT and wearable developers. 16Lab also offers software development kits (SDKs) that facilitate the creation of devices serving as universal authentication tools and multifunction controllers, catering to the needs of the Smart City era. Their innovative approach has led to collaborations with industry leaders, such as Sony, and garnered both venture capital funding and government support. 16Lab's technology positions it as a significant player in the evolution of computing platforms, allowing users to manage multiple functions with a single device.
August Home
Seed Round in 2014
August Pro is a division of August Home Inc., a company that specializes in smart home access products designed to enhance home security and user control. Founded in 2012 and based in San Francisco, August Home develops innovative solutions like the August Smart Lock, which enables users to replace traditional keys with smartphone access. This technology allows homeowners to create virtual keys for various individuals, such as house cleaners and delivery services, and manage access duration remotely via smartphones or computers. August Pro specifically caters to professional smart home installers, providing them with the tools and products needed to implement these advanced access systems effectively. As a subsidiary of ASSA ABLOY AB, August Home continues to focus on creating seamless and secure home environments.
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