UTokyo Innovation Platform Company

UTokyo Innovation Platform Company, established in 2016 and based in Tokyo, Japan, is dedicated to fostering innovation by supporting start-ups and facilitating corporate innovation. The company focuses on enhancing the innovation ecosystem by providing resources and guidance to university-affiliated ventures, particularly in sectors such as life sciences, healthcare, agricultural technology, space, robotics, hardware, information technology, and artificial intelligence. In addition to its investment activities, UTokyo Innovation Platform Company operates an incubation program designed to nurture new enterprises and accelerate their growth, thereby contributing to the global innovation landscape stemming from the University of Tokyo.

Akihiko Asami

Partner

Kazuhiko Kakehi

Partner, Academic Co-Innovation

Gavin Kuziel

Venture Partner

Takahiro Mizumoto

Partner, Investment and Incubation

Hideki Nagasaka

Partner and First Round Director Head of Venture Creation and Accelerator Program

Makoto Ohori Ph.D

Chief Investment Officer and Partner

Katsuhiko Oizumi

Founder, President and CEO

Past deals in Japan

Instalimb

Series B in 2025
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.

Leading Mark

Venture Round in 2025
Leading Mark Inc. is an employment agency based in Tokyo, Japan, focusing on enhancing the recruitment process through its online platform. The company aims to streamline job searches by aggregating listings tailored to users' interests, thereby improving the match between job seekers and employers. Recognizing the needs of the average job seeker, Leading Mark prioritizes providing essential information and support to applicants, differentiating itself from larger, traditional agencies that may favor the interests of hiring companies. Additionally, Leading Mark is expanding its services to include mid-career and international hiring, with a dedicated team in China to connect top Japanese-speaking Chinese students with opportunities in Japan. This approach seeks to alleviate common frustrations in the job market and foster more fulfilling career paths for candidates.

Girasol Energy

Series B in 2024
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.

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.

BionicM

Series A in 2023
BionicM is a Tokyo-based company focused on researching, developing, and commercializing advanced mobility devices that integrate robotics with the human body. Established as a joint-stock company in 2018, BionicM specializes in high-performance robotic prosthetics, including ankle-foot and knee joints, designed to enhance mobility for individuals with disabilities. The company has been engaged in innovative technology research since 2015 at the University of Tokyo's Information Systems Engineering Laboratory, working under the guidance of Professor Inaba. BionicM's products aim to enable users, including both handicapped and non-handicapped individuals, to perform essential daily activities such as standing, walking, and climbing stairs.

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.

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.

Libero Thera

Venture Round in 2021
LiberoThera provides drug discovery research and development services. It focuses on making drugs with GPCRs for membrane proteins. LiberoThera was founded in 2018 and is located in Tokyo.

Sonas

Venture Round in 2021
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.

RIN Institute

Venture Round in 2021
RIN Institute Inc. is a bio-venture company based in Tokyo, Japan, focused on the research and development of antibody-based medicines and external diagnostic drugs. Founded in 2016, RIN Institute specializes in creating innovative therapeutic solutions for cancer treatment, including drugs specifically designed for breast and ovarian cancers. By developing antibody seeds, the company aims to enhance the efficacy of cancer therapeutics and diagnostics, ultimately improving recovery prospects for patients. Through its commitment to advancing medical science, RIN Institute seeks to contribute significantly to the field of oncology.

BionicM

Series A in 2020
BionicM is a Tokyo-based company focused on researching, developing, and commercializing advanced mobility devices that integrate robotics with the human body. Established as a joint-stock company in 2018, BionicM specializes in high-performance robotic prosthetics, including ankle-foot and knee joints, designed to enhance mobility for individuals with disabilities. The company has been engaged in innovative technology research since 2015 at the University of Tokyo's Information Systems Engineering Laboratory, working under the guidance of Professor Inaba. BionicM's products aim to enable users, including both handicapped and non-handicapped individuals, to perform essential daily activities such as standing, walking, and climbing stairs.

Adriakaim

Series B in 2020
Adriakaim Inc. specializes in the research, design, development, manufacture, and sale of medical and health-related equipment. Established in 2018 and headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, the company also offers consulting services focused on management and technology strategy within the medical device sector. Additionally, Adriakaim supports research and development initiatives, providing expertise to enhance the innovation and effectiveness of healthcare solutions.

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.

Aidemy

Series A in 2020
Aidemy Inc. is a Tokyo-based company that offers online artificial intelligence programming services aimed at individuals and enterprises. Founded in 2014, it provides a comprehensive learning platform where users can acquire AI technology skills through practical applications. Aidemy's services include an all-in-one teaching environment and digital transformation support, facilitating the development of digital talent in organizations. Its solutions are particularly beneficial for corporations in the manufacturing sector, as well as smaller companies and academic institutions. Aidemy's offerings range from online learning resources to consulting services that assist businesses in implementing AI and digital transformation initiatives, ensuring effective human resource development and operational support.

Connected Robotics

Series A in 2019
Connected Robotics Inc, founded in 2014 and based in Koganei-shi, Japan, designs and manufactures robotic arms tailored for the food service industry. Its flagship product, OctoChef, addresses the labor shortages faced by restaurants by utilizing artificial intelligence and deep learning technologies to streamline cooking processes. The company serves a diverse clientele, including individual restaurants, shopping malls, stations, service areas, amusement centers, and large-scale events. By integrating intelligent robotics into kitchen operations, Connected Robotics aims to enhance the dining experience while promoting efficiency and quality in meal preparation.

EdiGENE Japan

Series B in 2019
EdiGENE Japan, now known as Modalis Therapeutics Corporation, is a biotechnology company based in Tokyo that focuses on developing innovative therapies for serious genetic disorders. Founded in 2016, the company leverages its proprietary CRISPR-GNDM technology, which allows for precise modulation of gene expression and histone modification without the need for traditional gene editing methods. Modalis Therapeutics aims to address unmet medical needs related to orphan genetic diseases, building a robust intellectual property portfolio in collaboration with the University of Tokyo.

Crewt Medical Systems

Series D in 2018
CREWT Medical Systems, Inc., founded in 2013 and based in Tokyo, Japan, specializes in the manufacturing of innovative medical devices. The company is known for developing the world's first head-mounted perimeter, which is compatible with standard automated perimeters, utilizing advanced lens design and software engineering. CREWT aims to create new value by integrating existing technologies to enhance clinical practices. The company's mission focuses on delivering human-centric medical devices that improve quality of vision, reflecting its commitment to innovation in the medical field.

Synspective

Venture Round in 2018
Synspective Inc., based in Tokyo, Japan, specializes in satellite data technology that leverages synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellite constellations, big data, and machine learning. The company provides remote sensing and satellite imagery services, utilizing small-sized SAR satellites capable of monitoring human activity across extensive areas, irrespective of time or weather conditions. Its offerings cater to various sectors, including urban design, infrastructure, energy, insurance, and finance, while also supporting government agencies in their data needs. By integrating advanced satellite data with analytical tools, Synspective aims to assist clients in achieving sustainable development and resilient urban growth.

QD Laser

Series F in 2018
QD Laser, Inc. specializes in the development and manufacturing of quantum dot semiconductor lasers and wafers, primarily using GaAs substrates. The company produces a variety of laser technologies, including picosecond short-pulse DFB lasers for precision processing and current injection-type lasers in green, yellow-green, and orange for biological applications. Additionally, QD Laser develops quantum dot laser arrays for silicon optical circuits and broadband gain chips for ophthalmic testing equipment. Their products are utilized in diverse sectors such as telecommunications, manufacturing, medicine, and consumer products, addressing applications in silicon photonics, sensing, and precision machining. Established in 2006 and headquartered in Kawasaki, Japan, QD Laser aims to enhance the performance of semiconductor lasers across various industries.

Braizon Therapeutics

Series B in 2018
Braizon Therapeutics, Inc. was established with the aim of applying and implementing, within the fields of medicine and life science, innovative technology for the delivery of drugs to the brain as the outcome of collaborative research by Professor Kazunori Kataoka from the Graduate School of Engineering/Medicine, the University of Tokyo and Professor Takanori Yokota from the Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University.

Alivas

Venture Round in 2017
Alivas Inc. is a medical company based in Hongo, Tokyo, Japan, that specializes in developing therapeutic medical devices aimed at treating refractory constipation. Founded in 2017, Alivas emerged as a joint venture between Stanford University and the University of Tokyo, leveraging the Japan Biodesign program to foster innovative solutions in medical device creation. The company's primary focus is on addressing intractable chronic constipation, providing patients with effective treatment options to alleviate their condition and improve their quality of life.

Xenoma

Series A in 2017
Xenoma, Inc. is a Tokyo-based company specializing in the development of e-skin, a platform for wearable electronic apparel that monitors various physiological functions such as motion, breathing, pressure, and body temperature. As a spin-off from the University of Tokyo's Someya Group Organic Transistor Lab, Xenoma leverages advancements in organic electronics to create ultrathin and ultraflexible devices that seamlessly integrate with the human body. Their innovative clothing line features highly sensitive motion sensors capable of tracking body movement and posture, facilitating the collection of valuable health data. This data can be used to enhance healthcare solutions by combining it with big data analytics, while their products remain comfortable, durable, and machine washable for everyday use.

Crewt Medical Systems

Series D in 2017
CREWT Medical Systems, Inc., founded in 2013 and based in Tokyo, Japan, specializes in the manufacturing of innovative medical devices. The company is known for developing the world's first head-mounted perimeter, which is compatible with standard automated perimeters, utilizing advanced lens design and software engineering. CREWT aims to create new value by integrating existing technologies to enhance clinical practices. The company's mission focuses on delivering human-centric medical devices that improve quality of vision, reflecting its commitment to innovation in the medical field.
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