Itochu

ITOCHU Corporation, established in 1858 by Chubei Itoh, has developed into a prominent sogo shosha, engaging in a wide array of domestic and international trading activities. The company specializes in the import and export of various products, including textiles, machinery, chemicals, metals, energy, and food. It also invests in diverse sectors such as finance, insurance, construction, real estate, and warehousing. The food segment focuses on efficiency throughout the supply chain, from raw materials to retail, while the energy and chemicals division handles trading in crude oil and its derivatives. With over 150 years of experience, ITOCHU continues to play a significant role in the global trading landscape.

Masahiro Okafuji

Chairman and CEO

Junichi Sasaki

President and CEO

Past deals in Tokyo

SkyDrive

Series B in 2020
SkyDrive Inc. is a Tokyo-based company that specializes in the design, development, manufacturing, and sales of flying electric vehicles. Founded in 2018, SkyDrive focuses on two primary products: Air Mobility, which includes electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft for manned transport, and Cargo Drones, which cater to logistics needs. The company's innovative solutions aim to provide efficient aerial transportation services, addressing challenges related to time and cost while enhancing the overall quality of life for consumers. With additional operations in Toyota, Japan, SkyDrive is positioned to revolutionize urban mobility and logistics through its advanced aerial technology.

FamilyMart

Acquisition in 2020
FamilyMart is a prominent convenience store franchise chain based in Tokyo, Japan, operating approximately 16,500 stores domestically and internationally. Founded in August 1988, it has grown to become the second-largest convenience store chain, particularly after merging with Uny in 2016. FamilyMart offers a wide range of products, including groceries, beverages, snacks, magazines, and ready-to-eat meals. In addition to its core retail operations, the company provides franchise services and engages in e-commerce and food manufacturing. With a significant presence in Asia, including around 7,900 stores across the region, FamilyMart is also expanding its operations in China and Southeast Asia, with convenience store operations generating the majority of its revenue and profits.

Trende

Series B in 2020
Trende Inc. is a Tokyo-based renewable energy company that specializes in online retail of electricity and solar energy solutions for residential customers in Japan. Founded in 2017, Trende operates through its service platforms, Hot Denki and Ashita Denki, which provide affordable energy plans and incentivize homeowners to become prosumers through a third-party ownership model that eliminates upfront costs for solar system installation. In addition to retail electricity services, Trende also sells solar power generation equipment and energy storage systems, allowing consumers to generate and store their own energy. The company is developing a peer-to-peer electricity trading system to enhance the adoption and efficient use of renewable energy, catering to the growing demand for sustainable energy solutions in the residential sector.

Noin

Venture Round in 2020
Noin, Inc. is a Tokyo-based company established in 2016 that specializes in online content creation and media development services, particularly in the cosmetics industry. The company focuses on delivering engaging content that resonates with contemporary trends, including videos that address common concerns among young women. In addition to content creation, Noin provides sales account management and social media management services for online businesses, helping clients enhance their digital presence and reach their target audiences effectively.

Paidy

Series C in 2020
Paidy Inc. is a Tokyo-based company that specializes in a cardless real-time payment network designed to facilitate online transactions without the need for credit cards or pre-registration. Founded in 2008, Paidy enables consumers to make purchases online and pay for them later through a consolidated monthly bill. The platform is optimized for mobile use and instant-checkout, catering to the preferences of Japanese consumers who typically avoid credit card usage for online payments. By utilizing proprietary technology to assess creditworthiness and underwrite transactions, Paidy guarantees payment to merchants, thereby enhancing their conversion rates, average order values, and repeat purchases. Through its innovative payment solutions, Paidy supports eCommerce operators in boosting sales and overall profitability.

NETSTARS

Venture Round in 2019
Netstars Co., Ltd is an internet service company based in Tokyo, Japan, with additional offices in Shenzhen, Dalian, and Hanoi. Founded in 2009, the company specializes in developing and distributing point of sale terminals that facilitate smartphone-based payment methods, including QR codes and barcodes, catering to a variety of service providers. Its core offerings include StarPay, a multi-cashless payment solution; StarPay-DX, which addresses store operation challenges through digital transformation; and StarPay Global, aimed at promoting cashless payment solutions internationally. Additionally, Netstars provides mobile payment services, a multiple payment option gateway, and promotional services for inbound tourists, incorporating popular platforms such as WeChat Pay and Line Pay. The company also develops mobile instant messaging software to enhance user engagement.

Descente

Acquisition in 2019
Descente Ltd. is a Japanese company that specializes in the manufacture and sale of sportswear and related products both domestically and internationally. Established in 1935 and headquartered in Tokyo, Descente offers a wide range of apparel for various sports, including outdoor activities, swimming, winter sports, golf, soccer, cycling, tennis, volleyball, baseball, and fitness training. The company markets its products under several well-known brand names, including DESCENTE, le coq sportif, arena, Munsingwear, umbro, Inov-8, SKINS, Marmot, LANVIN SPORT, CUTTER & BUCK, SRIXON, AVIA, and ryka. Descente operates not only in Japan but also across Asia, Europe, North America, and South America, catering to a global customer base.

CAMPFIRE

Series C in 2019
CAMPFIRE, Inc. is a prominent player in Japan's crowdfunding sector, focusing on planning, developing, and managing various cloud funding platforms. Its flagship platform, CAMPFIRE, supports individuals and organizations looking to launch projects confidently, having facilitated around 15,000 initiatives that garnered approximately $70 million from over 700,000 contributors. In addition to CAMPFIRE, the company offers specialized services including GoodMorning for socially beneficial projects, CLOSS for fashion-related endeavors, and FAAVO, which focuses on regional projects. It also features polka, a unique application for personal fundraising events, CAMPFIRE Bank for financial services, and Gojo, a community wallet application for shared finances among family and friends. Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Tokyo, CAMPFIRE caters to a diverse clientele, including individuals, creators, companies, non-profit organizations, universities, and local governments, addressing a wide range of financial needs.

CAMPFIRE

Venture Round in 2019
CAMPFIRE, Inc. is a prominent player in Japan's crowdfunding sector, focusing on planning, developing, and managing various cloud funding platforms. Its flagship platform, CAMPFIRE, supports individuals and organizations looking to launch projects confidently, having facilitated around 15,000 initiatives that garnered approximately $70 million from over 700,000 contributors. In addition to CAMPFIRE, the company offers specialized services including GoodMorning for socially beneficial projects, CLOSS for fashion-related endeavors, and FAAVO, which focuses on regional projects. It also features polka, a unique application for personal fundraising events, CAMPFIRE Bank for financial services, and Gojo, a community wallet application for shared finances among family and friends. Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Tokyo, CAMPFIRE caters to a diverse clientele, including individuals, creators, companies, non-profit organizations, universities, and local governments, addressing a wide range of financial needs.

Descente

Post in 2019
Descente Ltd. is a Japanese company that specializes in the manufacture and sale of sportswear and related products both domestically and internationally. Established in 1935 and headquartered in Tokyo, Descente offers a wide range of apparel for various sports, including outdoor activities, swimming, winter sports, golf, soccer, cycling, tennis, volleyball, baseball, and fitness training. The company markets its products under several well-known brand names, including DESCENTE, le coq sportif, arena, Munsingwear, umbro, Inov-8, SKINS, Marmot, LANVIN SPORT, CUTTER & BUCK, SRIXON, AVIA, and ryka. Descente operates not only in Japan but also across Asia, Europe, North America, and South America, catering to a global customer base.

WHITE CROSS

Venture Round in 2018
WHITE CROSS Inc. is a Tokyo-based company established in 2015 that specializes in information and communications technology (ICT) for the dental care sector. It operates a cloud-based platform designed to enhance various aspects of dental practice, including clinic management, advertising, recruitment, and education. Additionally, WHITE CROSS manages community sites aimed at supporting dental health professionals. By providing these services, the company seeks to improve the quality of care within the dental industry and facilitate better communication and collaboration among dental care providers.

TBM

Venture Round in 2018
TBM Co., Ltd. is a Tokyo-based company that specializes in the research, production, and sale of LIMEX, a limestone-based alternative to traditional paper and plastics. Founded in 2011, the company offers a diverse range of LIMEX products, including sheet alternatives like business cards, menus, and posters, as well as plastic alternatives such as containers, flags, and biodegradable items. TBM distributes its innovative products globally and also has offices in Kyoto, Japan, and San Francisco, California. As of early 2005, TBM operates as a subsidiary of ZERO Co., Ltd.

Paidy

Series C in 2018
Paidy Inc. is a Tokyo-based company that specializes in a cardless real-time payment network designed to facilitate online transactions without the need for credit cards or pre-registration. Founded in 2008, Paidy enables consumers to make purchases online and pay for them later through a consolidated monthly bill. The platform is optimized for mobile use and instant-checkout, catering to the preferences of Japanese consumers who typically avoid credit card usage for online payments. By utilizing proprietary technology to assess creditworthiness and underwrite transactions, Paidy guarantees payment to merchants, thereby enhancing their conversion rates, average order values, and repeat purchases. Through its innovative payment solutions, Paidy supports eCommerce operators in boosting sales and overall profitability.

Organ Technologies

Venture Round in 2018
Organ Technologies Inc. specializes in the manufacture, sale, import, and export of pharmaceuticals and materials for regenerative medicine. The company also offers contract manufacturing services for therapeutic cells, tissues, and organs, as well as medical and industrial equipment. Its research and development efforts focus on transplantation and regenerative medicine technologies. Key projects include the development of three-dimensional human artificial skin, hair regeneration treatments, dental regenerative medicine, and a three-dimensional organ culture system. Founded in 2008 and based in Tokyo, Japan, Organ Technologies aims to advance global health and welfare through innovative bio-engineering technologies that replicate the functionality of natural organs.

Jeplan

Corporate Round in 2018
Jeplan, Inc. is a Tokyo-based environmental firm that specializes in developing advanced recycling technologies and systems. Founded in January 2007, the company focuses on recycling various materials, including textiles and plastics. Jeplan employs proprietary technology to chemically recycle polyethylene terephthalate (PET) from waste food packaging, plastic bottles, and polyester fibers, producing recycled PET (r-PET) resin and Bis(2-Hydroxyethyl) terephthalate (r-BHET) resin. These materials are then utilized in the manufacture of new products, such as PET bottles and textiles. In addition to its recycling efforts, Jeplan promotes initiatives for the recycling of used uniforms and offers consulting services to businesses interested in adopting recycling practices.

CureApp

Series B in 2018
CureApp, Inc., founded in 2014 and based in Tokyo, Japan, specializes in developing mobile applications aimed at treating various health conditions, particularly nicotine addiction. The company's flagship product, a nicotine addiction treatment app, was launched in February 2015 in collaboration with the Division of Pulmonary Medicine at Keio University’s School of Medicine. CureApp is recognized as a prominent player in the digital health sector, focusing on applications that exhibit therapeutic effects against diseases. The company is actively conducting clinical trials to validate the efficacy of its applications. Additionally, CureApp's medical treatment platform allows users to keep daily activity logs, which are analyzed to identify triggers exacerbating their conditions. This technology enables patients to receive personalized guidance in managing lifestyle diseases, addressing health issues that are typically not managed by conventional medications or devices.

Paidy

Venture Round in 2017
Paidy Inc. is a Tokyo-based company that specializes in a cardless real-time payment network designed to facilitate online transactions without the need for credit cards or pre-registration. Founded in 2008, Paidy enables consumers to make purchases online and pay for them later through a consolidated monthly bill. The platform is optimized for mobile use and instant-checkout, catering to the preferences of Japanese consumers who typically avoid credit card usage for online payments. By utilizing proprietary technology to assess creditworthiness and underwrite transactions, Paidy guarantees payment to merchants, thereby enhancing their conversion rates, average order values, and repeat purchases. Through its innovative payment solutions, Paidy supports eCommerce operators in boosting sales and overall profitability.

ABEJA

Series B in 2017
ABEJA, Inc. is a Japanese company that specializes in artificial intelligence software tailored for retailers and manufacturers. Founded in 2012 and based in Minato-Ku, the company offers a cloud-based platform that integrates advanced technologies such as IoT, big data, and deep learning. ABEJA's services encompass data collection, analysis, automation, simulation, and visualization, enabling sophisticated analyses and optimized solutions across various industries, particularly in retail, manufacturing, and infrastructure. The platform supports the entire machine learning and deep learning pipeline, facilitating development, deployment, and ongoing operations to drive digital transformation for its clients.

Solairo

Venture Round in 2016
Solairo, Inc., founded in 2013 and based in Tokyo, Japan, develops and operates the fashion coordinate application and e-commerce portal known as "PRIMODE." The company focuses on enhancing the online shopping experience through an integrated chat management platform that utilizes artificial intelligence to provide automatic responses to customer inquiries. By analyzing chat log data, Solairo's technology helps businesses improve customer engagement and increase purchase rates and lifetime value.

Paidy

Series B in 2016
Paidy Inc. is a Tokyo-based company that specializes in a cardless real-time payment network designed to facilitate online transactions without the need for credit cards or pre-registration. Founded in 2008, Paidy enables consumers to make purchases online and pay for them later through a consolidated monthly bill. The platform is optimized for mobile use and instant-checkout, catering to the preferences of Japanese consumers who typically avoid credit card usage for online payments. By utilizing proprietary technology to assess creditworthiness and underwrite transactions, Paidy guarantees payment to merchants, thereby enhancing their conversion rates, average order values, and repeat purchases. Through its innovative payment solutions, Paidy supports eCommerce operators in boosting sales and overall profitability.

Toreta

Series B in 2016
Toreta, Inc. is a technology company based in Tokyo, Japan, that specializes in developing applications for restaurant reservations. Founded in 2013, Toreta provides a mobile application that streamlines reservation management for restaurants. The application enables automatic recording of reservation conversations, generates customer ledgers based on reservation data, and allows customers to make reservations online at any time. Additionally, the platform enhances operational efficiency for restaurant management by offering tools such as mobile order services, AI-based reservation reception, and customer relationship management features. Through its innovative solutions, Toreta aims to improve the overall dining experience for both restaurants and their customers.

Crowdworks

Post in 2016
CrowdWorks Inc. is a prominent crowdsourcing service provider based in Tokyo, Japan, established in 2011. The company operates a platform that connects businesses with individuals seeking freelance work, offering a variety of services including project matching for engineers, writers, designers, and system developers. CrowdWorks enables users to apply for diverse projects, encompassing tasks such as app development, website creation, and logo design. With over 130,000 registered users and partnerships with more than 25,000 companies, including governmental bodies and publicly traded firms, CrowdWorks has established itself as a significant player in the Japanese freelance market. The company also provides specialized services tailored to high-value professionals, facilitating opportunities for side jobs and second businesses.

Liquid

Seed Round in 2015
Liquid, Inc. is a Tokyo-based company founded in 2013 that specializes in the manufacture and development of biometric identity verification and payment devices. The company focuses on fingerprint sensing technology, which enables users to register payment methods, such as point cards and credit cards, using their fingerprint information. This innovative approach allows customers to complete transactions simply by using their fingerprints. Liquid also develops related software that employs advanced authentication algorithms and image analysis technology to enhance security and convenience in payment processes.

MONEY DESIGN

Venture Round in 2015
MONEY DESIGN Co., Ltd. is a fintech company based in Tokyo, Japan, that specializes in asset management and investment advisory services. Founded in 2013, the company provides automated investment management solutions aimed at simplifying the investment process for clients. By leveraging technology, MONEY DESIGN offers tailored investment strategies and advice to help individuals and businesses achieve their financial goals.

SMN

Venture Round in 2015
SMN Corporation is a marketing technology company based in Tokyo, Japan, founded in 2000. It specializes in developing and providing a range of digital marketing solutions, including the Logicad demand-side platform, which enables data specialists and advertisers to manage digital advertising inventory efficiently. Additionally, the company offers VALIS-Engine, an artificial intelligence engine, and VALIS-Cockpit, a marketing analytics tool designed to enhance data analysis capabilities. SMN also operates SCAN, a closed affiliate network, which further expands its advertising services. As a subsidiary of Sony Network Communications, Inc., SMN Corporation focuses on leveraging real-time data analytics to deliver valuable solutions to clients in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

ABEJA

Series A in 2014
ABEJA, Inc. is a Japanese company that specializes in artificial intelligence software tailored for retailers and manufacturers. Founded in 2012 and based in Minato-Ku, the company offers a cloud-based platform that integrates advanced technologies such as IoT, big data, and deep learning. ABEJA's services encompass data collection, analysis, automation, simulation, and visualization, enabling sophisticated analyses and optimized solutions across various industries, particularly in retail, manufacturing, and infrastructure. The platform supports the entire machine learning and deep learning pipeline, facilitating development, deployment, and ongoing operations to drive digital transformation for its clients.

ABEJA

Seed Round in 2014
ABEJA, Inc. is a Japanese company that specializes in artificial intelligence software tailored for retailers and manufacturers. Founded in 2012 and based in Minato-Ku, the company offers a cloud-based platform that integrates advanced technologies such as IoT, big data, and deep learning. ABEJA's services encompass data collection, analysis, automation, simulation, and visualization, enabling sophisticated analyses and optimized solutions across various industries, particularly in retail, manufacturing, and infrastructure. The platform supports the entire machine learning and deep learning pipeline, facilitating development, deployment, and ongoing operations to drive digital transformation for its clients.

Edwin Holdings

Acquisition in 2014
Edwin Holdings is a clothing manufacturer and retailer based in Tokyo, Japan, established in February 2006. The company specializes in producing a diverse range of apparel, with a notable emphasis on jeans and denim. Its product offerings include various categories of jeans, such as prewashed and dyed options, catering to both men and women. In addition to jeans, Edwin Holdings also provides sportswear, ensuring a comprehensive selection for its customers.

Solasia Pharma

Venture Round in 2012
Solasia Pharma K.K. is a Tokyo-based company focused on developing and distributing pharmaceuticals and medical devices for oncology in Asia. Established in 2006, Solasia offers products such as episil oral liquid for pain control and relief, and Sancuso, a transdermal system that administers granisetron to treat chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. The company is advancing its clinical pipeline with SP-02, a mitochondrial-targeted agent currently in Phase II trials for various hematologic and solid tumors, and SP-04, which has completed Phase IIb trials for chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy. In addition to its drug development efforts, Solasia is involved in the import and export of medicines and medical equipment.

Solasia Pharma

Venture Round in 2012
Solasia Pharma K.K. is a Tokyo-based company focused on developing and distributing pharmaceuticals and medical devices for oncology in Asia. Established in 2006, Solasia offers products such as episil oral liquid for pain control and relief, and Sancuso, a transdermal system that administers granisetron to treat chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. The company is advancing its clinical pipeline with SP-02, a mitochondrial-targeted agent currently in Phase II trials for various hematologic and solid tumors, and SP-04, which has completed Phase IIb trials for chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy. In addition to its drug development efforts, Solasia is involved in the import and export of medicines and medical equipment.

Kureha Battery Materials Japan

Private Equity Round in 2012
Kureha Battery Materials Japan Co., Ltd. is a manufacturer based in Tokyo, Japan, specializing in active anode materials for lithium-ion secondary batteries. Founded in 2011, the company produces CARBOTRON P, which serves as anode material for various applications, including small electronic devices like computers and mobile phones, as well as electric and hybrid vehicles. Additionally, Kureha Battery Materials Japan offers KF POLYMER, a binder material utilized in consumer lithium-ion batteries. The company also engages in the production and sale of gel polymers and activated carbon for Electric Double-Layer Capacitors (EDLC). Kureha Battery Materials Japan operates as a subsidiary of Kureha Corporation.

Solasia Pharma

Venture Round in 2011
Solasia Pharma K.K. is a Tokyo-based company focused on developing and distributing pharmaceuticals and medical devices for oncology in Asia. Established in 2006, Solasia offers products such as episil oral liquid for pain control and relief, and Sancuso, a transdermal system that administers granisetron to treat chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. The company is advancing its clinical pipeline with SP-02, a mitochondrial-targeted agent currently in Phase II trials for various hematologic and solid tumors, and SP-04, which has completed Phase IIb trials for chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy. In addition to its drug development efforts, Solasia is involved in the import and export of medicines and medical equipment.

Xevo

Series A in 2008
Xevo Inc. is a Bellevue, Washington-based company specializing in cloud-based software solutions for the automotive, hotel, cruise, and retail industries. It develops innovative automotive technology that connects vehicles to mobile applications, content, and services, enabling manufacturers to enhance in-vehicle experiences. Key offerings include UIE CloudConnect, an infotainment platform that delivers customized content and services in real-time, and UIEngine, which improves human-machine interface (HMI) systems and enables data analytics. Xevo also offers UIE CloudNavi, a remote vehicle management solution, and UIE BlueSync, which allows multiple smartphones to connect to a vehicle's in-dash unit via Bluetooth. As a subsidiary of Lear Corporation, Xevo partners with leading automakers to drive new monetization opportunities through connected-car technology. The company, originally known as UIEvolution, Inc., was founded in 2000 and has additional offices in Tokyo and Detroit.

Utagoe

Venture Round in 2007
Utagoe Inc. is a Tokyo-based technical development company founded in 2001, specializing in video and communication technologies. The company has developed a range of applications for Android and iPhone, with its flagship service, Utagoe Live 100, serving as a hub for video communication, streaming, and broadcasting. Utagoe Live 100 allows users to simultaneously share media from multiple sources, enhancing person-to-person communication. In addition to its communication platforms, Utagoe has created proprietary technologies that improve the efficiency of live streaming by utilizing distributed processing techniques for image data distribution. The company also has a history of innovation, having launched its first product, a music search engine for mobile phones, in 2004. Utagoe continues to advance its offerings in the realm of interactive and multimedia communication.

Solasia Pharma

Pre Seed Round in 2006
Solasia Pharma K.K. is a Tokyo-based company focused on developing and distributing pharmaceuticals and medical devices for oncology in Asia. Established in 2006, Solasia offers products such as episil oral liquid for pain control and relief, and Sancuso, a transdermal system that administers granisetron to treat chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. The company is advancing its clinical pipeline with SP-02, a mitochondrial-targeted agent currently in Phase II trials for various hematologic and solid tumors, and SP-04, which has completed Phase IIb trials for chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy. In addition to its drug development efforts, Solasia is involved in the import and export of medicines and medical equipment.

Excite Japan

Venture Round in 2002
Excite Japan is a Tokyo-based company that specializes in internet businesses, having been established in 1997. Initially focused on operating a portal site, the company has expanded its offerings to include services primarily aimed at women. Its revenue streams consist of advertising placements by various companies, fees from internet connection services, and charges for paid content provided to users. Excite Japan operates as a media content portal, enabling users to access a variety of services and information online.
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