UntroD Capital Japan

UntroD Capital Japan is a Tokyo-headquartered investment firm dedicated to fostering the social implementation of innovative deep tech solutions that address critical global and human challenges. Established in 2015 with the launch of the Realtech Fund, the firm specializes in providing lead investments and hands-on support to seed and early-stage research and development-oriented startups. Their investment philosophy, termed "UntroD Capitalism," focuses on channeling capital into overlooked yet essential sectors to prove their economic viability and create sustainable mechanisms for growth and impact.

The firm's origins trace back to the establishment of the Realtech Fund in 2015 by Akihiko Nagata and Yukihiro Maru, who pioneered the concept of "real tech" before the widespread adoption of "deep tech." UntroD Capital Japan was re-established under its current name in June 2024 to further embody its mission of conquering "untrodden" territories—both scientifically and socially challenging domains. Akihiko Nagata, formerly CEO of Euglena Co., Ltd., serves as the Representative Director of UntroD Capital Japan, while Yukihiro Maru leads UntroD, Inc. and UntroD Capital Asia Pte. Ltd.

UntroD Capital Japan manages a diverse portfolio of funds, including Realtech Funds (Japan), Realtech Global Funds (global), Realtech Growth Fund (Japan), and a Crossover Impact Fund (Japan), with total assets under management exceeding 40 billion Japanese Yen (approximately 258 million USD). Notable investments span various deep tech areas, including Applause Pharma (new drug development), Molmir (drug discovery), EmotionX (fully homomorphic encryption), QD Laser (retinal scanning laser eyewear), Kyulux (next-gen organic EL materials), Ball Wave (chemical sensing), aba (caregiver support technology), NDR Medical Technologies (AI surgical robots), Karana (plant-based meat), ispace (lunar landers), QPS Institute (small radar satellites), and WOTA (autonomous water treatment systems).

The firm boasts a professional team with extensive expertise in deep tech domains, offering comprehensive support beyond just funding. Their team members, including directors and growth managers, bring diverse backgrounds in venture capital, corporate management, scientific research, and international development. They provide hands-on assistance in areas such as intellectual property, recruitment, HR, public relations, and manufacturing, leveraging a broad network of industry experts and corporate partners to accelerate the growth and societal impact of their portfolio companies.