Keio Innovation Initiative

Keio Innovation Initiative (KII) is a venture capital firm established in 2015 and based in Tokyo, Japan. Founded by Keio University, KII aims to harness the university's advanced research to foster societal development by investing in startups that leverage these research outcomes. The firm focuses on seed and early-stage companies, particularly in the digital and medical healthcare sectors. Recognizing Japan's challenges in research and development efficiency and low entrepreneurial activity compared to other developed nations, KII strives to enhance the utilization of academic research and stimulate new industry creation. By supporting innovative ventures, KII seeks to contribute to Japan's economic growth and address the need for a more vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Ryo Ohtake

Principal

Yusuke Satake

Principal

Kotaro Yamagishi

Founder and CEO

Yuto Torii

Principal

60 past transactions

Linqmed

Series B in 2025
Developer of radiopharmaceuticals intended to offer treatment of cancer. The company engages in the research and development of therapeutic and diagnostic drugs for cancer using 64Cu which is a radioisotope of copper, enabling doctors to provide cancer treatments to the patients.

JiMED

Series A in 2025
JiMED is a company specializing in wireless embedded brain-computer interface (BCI) systems that monitor brain activity. It offers a wireless implantable BCI system that utilizes an implanted device in conjunction with artificial intelligence to interpret brain signals. This innovative technology allows individuals with ALS to control the device through thought, significantly enhancing their ability to communicate and improve their quality of life.

BlueWX

Series A in 2025
BlueWX is a software company that develops predictive content services that supports in forecasting, and weather analysis.

DigitalArchi

Seed Round in 2025
DigitalArchi is a manufacturing company that offers interior parts, fixtures, concrete formwork for construction, recycle and sells plastic.

Japan Carbon Cycle Lab

Series A in 2024
Japan Carbon Cycle Lab is a technology company that focuses on the research and development of CO2 capture and recycling techniques.

Nihon Agri

Series C in 2024
Exportation of Japanese agricultural products is currently small in volume. While Japanese farmers aspire to export their products to foreign countries for more people to enjoy and local consumers universally share the positive perception of the quality of Japanese agricultural products, issues such as price, communication, and logistics hinder the expansion of exportation. They aim to solve these issues and satisfy the needs of both Japanese farmers and global consumers which are so clearly evident but devastatingly unmet.

Aeterlink

Series B in 2024
Aeterlink is a developer of advanced wireless power transfer technology aimed at eliminating the need for wires in various applications. The company specializes in creating wireless devices that can be applied across multiple fields, including factory automation, robotics, smart homes, and medicine. By enabling the wireless transmission of power over distances, Aeterlink's innovations enhance efficiency, sustainability, and safety in industries, allowing for greater flexibility in device placement and reducing the risks associated with traditional wiring. Their technology represents a significant step toward a digital world that operates without the constraints of physical connections.

Purmx

Series A in 2024
PURMX is a pharmaceutical company focused on developing RNA nucleic acid medicines aimed at treating intractable diseases, particularly malignant pleural mesothelioma. The company specializes in creating innovative nucleic acid drugs that utilize small ribonucleic acid to address deficiencies in cells. By providing targeted therapies for cancer treatment, PURMX aims to improve patient outcomes and support healthcare professionals in their efforts to manage complex medical conditions.

Red Arrow Therapeutics

Seed Round in 2024
Developer of a healthcare technology designed to replace the traditional way of treating cancer treatment. The company aims to transform the traditional therapeutic into a next-generation therapy for cancer diseases by maximizing the drug potency with minimum toxicity, helping the healthcare sector to overcome systemic toxicity and exhibiting strong anti-tumor efficacy in various tumor models both as monotherapy and in combination with immune checkpoint inhibitors.

Newmo

Seed Round in 2024
newmo delivers sustainable local public transportation create a user experience (UX) that people may utilize with peace of mind and comfort.

Axelspace

Series D in 2023
Axelspace is a startup company developing businesses in the microsatellite field. Axelspace plans to construct a monitoring platform to cover the entire globe on a daily basis at extremely low cost.

Hedgehog MedTech

Series A in 2023
Hedgehog Medtech is a medical firm focused on digital therapeutics (DTx). DTx is a pharmaceutically approved programmable medical device that assists patients' medical operations via smartphone apps.

Nanofiber Quantum Technologies

Convertible Note in 2023
Nanofiber Quantum Technologies is a research and manufacturing company focused on developing hardware for quantum communications. The company specializes in creating quantum computers that utilize nanofibers and advanced engineering techniques. Its primary areas of expertise include quantum cryptography and quantum communications, aiming to integrate these technologies into practical applications for societal benefit. By providing clients with innovative quantum networks, Nanofiber Quantum Technologies is advancing the field of quantum science and facilitating its implementation in various sectors.

Metagen Therapeutics

Series A in 2023
Metagen Therapeutics is a drug discovery and development company that harnesses the potential of microbiome science to advance medical innovations. As a joint venture between Fast Track Initiative Co., Ltd. and Keio Innovation Co., Ltd., it focuses on utilizing the gut microbiome's capabilities to create new treatments applicable across pharmaceutical, healthcare, and functional food sectors. The company's mission is to contribute to disease prevention and cure through its research and development efforts, aiming to enhance patient outcomes and promote overall health.

Heartseed

Series D in 2023
Heartseed Inc., founded in 2015 and located in Tokyo, Japan, focuses on developing myocardial regeneration medicine using induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells. The company is dedicated to advancing the clinical application of regenerative medicine for heart disease, specifically through the development and commercialization of iPS cell-derived cardiomyocyte replacement therapy aimed at treating advanced heart failure. Heartseed's mission is to transform heart disease treatment by pioneering innovative solutions in myocardial regeneration.

Hedgehog MedTech

Seed Round in 2022
Hedgehog Medtech is a medical firm focused on digital therapeutics (DTx). DTx is a pharmaceutically approved programmable medical device that assists patients' medical operations via smartphone apps.

LIFESCAPES

Seed Round in 2022
LIFESCAPES is a researcher and manufacturer of brain-computer interface equipment. LIFESCAPES aims to use BMI technology to help stroke patients solve problems and improve their quality of life. LIFESCAPES uses BMI to bring out the plasticity of the brain and help people who are in trouble to be free of their limitations and to live their lives normally.

K Pharma

Venture Round in 2022
K Pharma is engaged in the research, development, manufacturing, and marketing of pharmaceuticals, with a particular focus on neuro regenerative medicine. The company utilizes induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cell technology to create innovative treatments for neurological conditions, including cerebral infarction and spinal cord injury. By combining advanced drug discovery methods with a commitment to developing medical products, K Pharma aims to address significant unmet needs in the field of regenerative medicine.

FingerVision

Seed Round in 2022
FingerVision is a company focused on developing advanced sensing devices and robotic technologies aimed at enhancing the capabilities of robots and machines. By integrating visual and haptic technology derived from academic research, FingerVision aims to broaden the application areas of robotics. The company's innovations improve the dexterity and functionality of robotic hands, enabling them to perform tasks traditionally handled by humans. This advancement allows industries to automate processes such as pick-and-place operations, leading to increased efficiency and reduced labor costs, while also addressing various social challenges.

Alivexis

Series C in 2022
Alivexis is a preclinical stage drug discovery company based in Tokyo, specializing in the rapid design and generation of small molecule clinical candidates aimed at addressing high-value disease targets. The company leverages advanced computational drug discovery techniques and unique biological insights to accelerate the development of new medicines. Its international team consists of experts in drug design and disease biology, drawing on extensive research and development experience from global pharmaceutical and biotechnology firms. Alivexis's platform is designed to enhance biotechnological research, ultimately enabling healthcare professionals to deliver effective treatments to patients with unmet medical needs.

Cellusion

Venture Round in 2022
Cellusion Inc. is a Tokyo-based regenerative medicine company specializing in the research and development, manufacturing, and sales of induced pluripotent stem cell-derived corneal endothelial cells aimed at treating bullous keratopathy. Founded in 2015, Cellusion focuses on providing innovative solutions for cell transplantation, utilizing a mass culture system for corneal endothelial cells derived from iPS cells. This approach allows healthcare professionals to improve vision in patients suffering from bullous keratopathy by injecting the cell substitutes, which replace damaged corneal tissue, thereby enhancing the quality of life for affected individuals.

Luxonus

Series B in 2021
Luxonus is a medical device manufacturing company specializing in photoacoustic technology aimed at early disease detection and diagnosis. The company has developed an advanced imaging device that utilizes optical ultrasonic technology, which combines light and ultrasonic waves to create ultra-high-resolution three-dimensional images of blood vessels and lymphatic vessels. This innovative approach allows for safe and easy imaging without exposure, providing healthcare professionals with a comprehensive understanding of disease onset, healing processes, and overall health conditions before and after illness.

Heartseed

Series C in 2021
Heartseed Inc., founded in 2015 and located in Tokyo, Japan, focuses on developing myocardial regeneration medicine using induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells. The company is dedicated to advancing the clinical application of regenerative medicine for heart disease, specifically through the development and commercialization of iPS cell-derived cardiomyocyte replacement therapy aimed at treating advanced heart failure. Heartseed's mission is to transform heart disease treatment by pioneering innovative solutions in myocardial regeneration.

Metagen Therapeutics

Seed Round in 2021
Metagen Therapeutics is a drug discovery and development company that harnesses the potential of microbiome science to advance medical innovations. As a joint venture between Fast Track Initiative Co., Ltd. and Keio Innovation Co., Ltd., it focuses on utilizing the gut microbiome's capabilities to create new treatments applicable across pharmaceutical, healthcare, and functional food sectors. The company's mission is to contribute to disease prevention and cure through its research and development efforts, aiming to enhance patient outcomes and promote overall health.

B dot Medical

Venture Round in 2021
B dot Medical focuses on the development of ultra-compact proton beam cancer therapy equipment. The company designs a system that utilizes advanced radiotherapy techniques to accurately target tumors located deep within the body. This precision reduces damage to surrounding healthy tissues and organs, enhancing the effectiveness of cancer treatments. By providing features such as scanning irradiation, magnet design, gantry, and treatment couch, B dot Medical aims to offer a more accessible and cost-effective solution for proton cancer therapy, challenging traditional approaches to cancer treatment.

Connect Japan

Venture Round in 2020
Connect Japan is developing services that connect people.

AdipoSeeds

Venture Round in 2020
AdipoSeeds is a biotechnology company focused on addressing the global shortage of platelets by developing an innovative platelet-making system. The company utilizes mesenchymal stem cells to create platelets without the need for complex and costly gene transfer techniques. By pioneering a new blood supply system, AdipoSeeds aims to provide a cost-effective and safe solution for platelet-related treatments. Their technology offers fat-derived platelets that can be utilized in various applications, including blood products and wound care medicine, ultimately contributing to improved healthcare outcomes.

Skygate Technologies

Seed Round in 2020
Skygate Technologies Inc., founded in 2020 and based in Tokyo, Japan, specializes in designing and developing a cloud ground station platform that facilitates communication between satellites and the Earth. The company aims to democratize space-to-earth communication and support the growth of the NewSpace ecosystem. By providing a ground station as a service, Skygate Technologies optimizes operations for low Earth orbit satellites, incorporating features such as a unified antenna specification and software radio for automatic satellite acquisition and tracking. Their mission, encapsulated in the motto "Make Space accessible on the Web," emphasizes their commitment to integrating satellite communication into web architecture, thereby enhancing accessibility and efficiency in data transmission from observation satellites.

Alivexis

Series B in 2020
Alivexis is a preclinical stage drug discovery company based in Tokyo, specializing in the rapid design and generation of small molecule clinical candidates aimed at addressing high-value disease targets. The company leverages advanced computational drug discovery techniques and unique biological insights to accelerate the development of new medicines. Its international team consists of experts in drug design and disease biology, drawing on extensive research and development experience from global pharmaceutical and biotechnology firms. Alivexis's platform is designed to enhance biotechnological research, ultimately enabling healthcare professionals to deliver effective treatments to patients with unmet medical needs.

BONX

Series C in 2020
Bonx provides wearable outdoor sports group-talk technology. Bonx creates and develops Bonx Grip, a water and shock proof unit that enables group conversations between outdoor athletes.

Kringle Pharma

Venture Round in 2020
Kringle Pharma, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company based in Ibaraki, Japan, founded in 2001. The company focuses on the research and development of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and its applications in treating various medical conditions. Kringle Pharma's HGF products aim to promote regenerative healing in liver cells and other organs, addressing acute spinal cord injury, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), acute kidney injury, and vocal fold scars. Additionally, the company develops NK4, a bi-functional molecule that serves as an HGF antagonist, inhibiting tumor cell invasion and metastasis while exhibiting antiangiogenic properties. Kringle Pharma's pipeline includes recombinant human HGF for acute renal failure and skin ulcers, as well as NK4-based therapies for cancer treatment.

Cellusion

Series A in 2020
Cellusion Inc. is a Tokyo-based regenerative medicine company specializing in the research and development, manufacturing, and sales of induced pluripotent stem cell-derived corneal endothelial cells aimed at treating bullous keratopathy. Founded in 2015, Cellusion focuses on providing innovative solutions for cell transplantation, utilizing a mass culture system for corneal endothelial cells derived from iPS cells. This approach allows healthcare professionals to improve vision in patients suffering from bullous keratopathy by injecting the cell substitutes, which replace damaged corneal tissue, thereby enhancing the quality of life for affected individuals.

Luxonus

Series A in 2019
Luxonus is a medical device manufacturing company specializing in photoacoustic technology aimed at early disease detection and diagnosis. The company has developed an advanced imaging device that utilizes optical ultrasonic technology, which combines light and ultrasonic waves to create ultra-high-resolution three-dimensional images of blood vessels and lymphatic vessels. This innovative approach allows for safe and easy imaging without exposure, providing healthcare professionals with a comprehensive understanding of disease onset, healing processes, and overall health conditions before and after illness.

Motion Lib

Venture Round in 2019
Motion Lib, Inc., founded in 2016 and based in Kawasaki, Japan, specializes in haptic technology aimed at enhancing collaboration between humans and robots. The company, originally known as Undou Sekkei Kenkyuusho Limited until its rebranding in April 2017, has developed a specialized chip that estimates and calculates the repulsive force experienced when objects are touched, based on the load force applied to robotic motors. This innovation enables machines to interact more effectively with their environment, expanding their operational capabilities and contributing to increased productivity in various sectors.

Instalimb

Venture Round in 2019
Instalimb, Inc. is a Tokyo-based company focused on developing low-cost prosthetics and orthotics through advanced technology, specifically 3D printing and machine learning. As a pioneer in the field, Instalimb utilizes 3D-CAD and modeling software equipped with algorithms that optimize design and production processes. This innovative approach significantly reduces the cost of prosthetics to approximately one-tenth of traditional methods and shortens delivery times, allowing amputees to access high-quality, customized prosthetic solutions more quickly and affordably.

Xenodata lab

Venture Round in 2019
xenodata lab., In the mission "Technology proposal suggests naturally after five years", in order to make the shape of the future financial industry with novel technology, ideas February 2016 It was founded in. xenodata is a coined word that spells the idea of ​​creating heterogeneous creatures according to data, and by means of the intelligence created by the data, the meaning to pursue the substitution of human actions to the utmost is put in the meaning.

Luxonus

Venture Round in 2019
Luxonus is a medical device manufacturing company specializing in photoacoustic technology aimed at early disease detection and diagnosis. The company has developed an advanced imaging device that utilizes optical ultrasonic technology, which combines light and ultrasonic waves to create ultra-high-resolution three-dimensional images of blood vessels and lymphatic vessels. This innovative approach allows for safe and easy imaging without exposure, providing healthcare professionals with a comprehensive understanding of disease onset, healing processes, and overall health conditions before and after illness.

Himuka AM Pharma

Venture Round in 2018
Himuka AM Pharma Corp. is a pharmaceutical company based in Miyazaki City, Japan, founded in February 2017. The company focuses on the research, development, and discovery of drug candidates derived from the bioactive peptide adrenomedullin (AM), which was initially discovered at the University of Miyazaki. Himuka AM Pharma aims to create derivatives of adrenomedullin that contribute to mucosal healing and clinical remission, addressing significant unmet medical needs in healthcare.

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.

BONX

Series A in 2018
Bonx provides wearable outdoor sports group-talk technology. Bonx creates and develops Bonx Grip, a water and shock proof unit that enables group conversations between outdoor athletes.

Tsubota Lab

Venture Round in 2018
Tsubota Laboratory is involved in the research and development of pharmaceuticals and medical devices aimed at preventing and treating myopia, dry eye, presbyopia, and other eye-related conditions. The organization focuses on creating evidence-based solutions to address these eye diseases and systemic health issues.

Institution for a Global Society

Corporate Round in 2017
Institution for a Global Society specializes in providing innovative assessment solutions designed for educational institutions and businesses. Its offerings include GROW Academy, DxGROW, Ai GROW, and GROW360, which aim to facilitate seamless and unbiased evaluation processes. The organization employs ethical technology to foster a sustainable learning and development environment for individuals throughout their lives. Additionally, it focuses on people analytics, helping organizations identify, recruit, and develop human capital effectively. Its predictive analytics software has gained traction among various entities, including multinational corporations, government agencies, and international institutions, highlighting its commitment to enhancing human resource capabilities and promoting lifelong learning.

IDAC Theranostics

Venture Round in 2017
IDAC Theranostics, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Tokyo, Japan, that focuses on the research, development, and production of pharmaceutical products aimed at treating various conditions, including cancer, graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), and inflammatory diseases. Founded in 2012, the company is dedicated to creating drug therapies for diseases that typically require only symptomatic treatment. IDAC collaborates with academic institutions and pharmaceutical companies in Japan and abroad to advance its research efforts. Through these partnerships, IDAC Theranostics aims to develop effective solutions for patients with unmet medical needs, enhancing the capabilities of healthcare providers and the pharmaceutical industry.

Motion Lib

Venture Round in 2017
Motion Lib, Inc., founded in 2016 and based in Kawasaki, Japan, specializes in haptic technology aimed at enhancing collaboration between humans and robots. The company, originally known as Undou Sekkei Kenkyuusho Limited until its rebranding in April 2017, has developed a specialized chip that estimates and calculates the repulsive force experienced when objects are touched, based on the load force applied to robotic motors. This innovation enables machines to interact more effectively with their environment, expanding their operational capabilities and contributing to increased productivity in various sectors.

Generic Solution

Venture Round in 2017
Generic Solution Corporation, founded in 2006 and based in Tokyo, Japan, specializes in software distribution services and offers a range of data analytics and artificial intelligence solutions. The company provides GS8 software, which focuses on information retrieval and machine learning, as well as distributed computing services, data model design, and comprehensive data analysis. By leveraging large-scale data analytic techniques, Generic Solution aims to assist its clients in organizing and analyzing complex information, thereby enabling them to set profit targets and achieve measurable outcomes. The company's commitment to delivering effective solutions helps enhance its customers' competitiveness in the market.

BONX

Venture Round in 2017
Bonx provides wearable outdoor sports group-talk technology. Bonx creates and develops Bonx Grip, a water and shock proof unit that enables group conversations between outdoor athletes.

CureApp

Series A in 2017
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.

Quan

Venture Round in 2017
Quan Inc. is a Tokyo-based company that specializes in developing characters and game content for smartphone applications and web platforms. Established in 2011, the company offers a diverse portfolio of over 500 characters, including popular figures such as Betakkuma, Sugar Cubs, and Mr. Egg, which are used in chat applications and mobile services primarily in Japan and Southeast Asia. In addition to character development, Quan Inc. creates content for social and casual games, as well as keyboard and sticker applications. The company also provides global content distribution services and engages in public relations and advertising, focusing on market research, translation, and game management.

Kringle Pharma

Venture Round in 2016
Kringle Pharma, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company based in Ibaraki, Japan, founded in 2001. The company focuses on the research and development of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and its applications in treating various medical conditions. Kringle Pharma's HGF products aim to promote regenerative healing in liver cells and other organs, addressing acute spinal cord injury, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), acute kidney injury, and vocal fold scars. Additionally, the company develops NK4, a bi-functional molecule that serves as an HGF antagonist, inhibiting tumor cell invasion and metastasis while exhibiting antiangiogenic properties. Kringle Pharma's pipeline includes recombinant human HGF for acute renal failure and skin ulcers, as well as NK4-based therapies for cancer treatment.

SENSY

Venture Round in 2016
SENSY INC., established in November 2011 and headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, specializes in artificial intelligence technology focused on understanding human sensibilities. The company develops a personal AI that learns the unique sensitivities of individual users, facilitating transformative experiences across various aspects of life. SENSY's technology employs natural language processing to analyze diverse data sources, including images, text, music, and taste preferences. This enables businesses to implement personalized marketing strategies by allowing the AI to predict customer behaviors, such as visit timing and responses to promotions. In addition to consumer applications, SENSY provides support for launching new business-related services, catering to both business-to-consumer and business-to-business markets.
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