Hardware Startups

Nebraska provides "Degitail Store" (デジテール ストア), a system that lets retail stores run hybrid staffed/unstaffed operations using LINE- and QR-code-based store entry authentication and full self-checkout. It targets Japanese retailers such as bookstores and stationery shops looking to extend hours and reduce labor costs.

1 investor

Neu Brains applies neuroscience through wearable brain-measurement devices, brain-training tools delivered via web and apps, and brain-testing services used by universities, companies, and research institutions. It provides brain-age checks and measurement-based feedback intended to support cognitive health awareness.

1 investor

otta provides IoT-based safety monitoring (mimamori) services designed to track and watch over children and elderly people. The company aims to make monitoring services a social infrastructure with an affordable pricing model, serving households and communities in Japan.

1 investor

Piezo Studio develops piezoelectric crystal resonators and materials, including CTGS-based resonators designed for fast oscillation startup and low power consumption for IoT applications. The company also produces its own CTGS piezoelectric single-crystal core material used in these devices.

1 investor

Red Dot Drone Japan develops software solutions for drone operations, including remote piloting, automated storage and charging systems, AI-powered object detection and behavior analysis, and data visualization tools. The company serves organizations requiring safe and efficient unmanned drone deployment across surveillance, disaster response, and commercial applications.

1 investor

Robofull develops small-lot robotic automation systems and uses its own integration technology and factory database to propose and install easy-to-operate automation equipment. It targets small and mid-sized manufacturers in Japan facing labor shortages.

1 investor

SenSprout develops and sells soil moisture sensors and irrigation control devices for agriculture, along with internet services for farming operations. The company serves the agricultural sector in Japan.

1 investor

Spiral develops autonomous indoor drones (flying robots) designed to operate in non-GPS environments for tasks such as inspection of structures and warehouse inventory. It targets on-site field technicians and companies considering indoor drone adoption, offering drone-based solutions built around real-world operational needs.

1 investor

SteraVision develops optical switching and steering devices and FMCW/Digital Coherent LiDAR systems that can weight scanning toward specific regions of interest, for uses such as automotive and industrial LiDAR, factory automation robots, optical switches, and intrusion sensors. It is a fabless design and development venture spun out of Japan's AIST research institute.

1 investor

Tashinam manufactures premium kitchen knives, primarily petty knives, produced by master craftspeople in Seki, Gifu Prefecture. The company markets its knives to home cooks and gift-buyers based on superior sharpness, ease of maintenance using corrosion-resistant stainless steel, and claimed improvements to food flavor through precise cutting.

1 investor

Verne Technologies builds a voice-based AI interface that lets people interact with generative AI through natural spoken conversation. The company focuses on making AI more intuitive and accessible for general consumers.

1 investor

Japanese software development company that builds software solutions and integrates them with hardware to meet varied customer needs. It positions itself as a team of software development professionals serving a range of clients.

1 investor

A Japanese company specializing in styrofoam (EPS) shaping and 3D design, offering CNC cutting, 3D modeling, architectural molding, and urethane coating services. It serves theme parks, entertainment venues, and retail interiors, producing prototypes, mockups, and models.

1 investor

Asuka Net develops photobooks through on-demand printing for individual customers, operates a virtual talent agency (Razz Production), and creates aerial display technology using mid-air imaging. The company serves photography enthusiasts, funeral services, and regional communities through digital content and extended reality experiences.

1 investor

ADTEC develops and manufactures exposure equipment essential for producing printed circuit boards used in electronics. The company serves semiconductor and electronics manufacturers with precision exposure systems that enable high-density, lightweight circuit board production.

1 investor

BRUNO is a Japanese lifestyle and consumer appliance brand that designs and sells kitchen gadgets, household appliances, and travel accessories. The company operates retail locations across Japan and internationally, with recent expansion into Europe.

1 investor

Innophy manufactures exoskeletons and powered assist suits (MuscleSupport and π Plus models) for industrial workers, farmers, and logistics operations to reduce physical strain and support extended work life.

1 investor

SAT Co., Ltd. provides maintenance services for IT hardware equipment along with IT infrastructure construction and IT solution deployment and operation. The company serves enterprise IT clients in Japan.

1 investor

Japanese company that supplies commercial kitchen and food-service equipment, including refrigeration, heating, food-prep, gelato/soft-serve, café and drink machines, along with a HACCP-compliant temperature-logging subscription service. Founded in 1971 and based in Tokyo, it distributes multiple equipment brands to food-industry clients.

1 investor

Optowl (株式会社オプトル) is a Japanese manufacturer of optical products and systems, including camera assemblies, lens processing, plastic and optical element molding, projector optical units, in-vehicle stereo cameras and head-up display units, FA lenses, and crane safety-support systems. Formed in 2024 from the optical business of Ricoh Industrial Solutions, it serves industrial and automotive customers with customized optics-based technology.

1 investor

Gear provides BtoC repair services on behalf of manufacturers, positioning itself in "repair marketing" to improve manufacturers' customer satisfaction, fan base, and branding. The company anticipates growing demand tied to robotics and elderly-care needs in an aging society.

1 investor

MiraiSpeaker develops audio hardware products and assistive hearing technology for aging populations, enabling seniors to experience enriched lives through technology.

1 investor

Saki Corporation develops automated inspection systems for electronic modules, using image capture to automatically judge good versus defective products on electronic boards and power semiconductors. It supplies these quality inspection solutions to manufacturers in electronics and semiconductor production.

1 investor

A company offering surveillance camera solutions with video analysis capabilities for crime prevention, evidence recording, and operational efficiency improvement.

1 investor