10 rising startups in Japan

This week, startups focused on female empowerment, research equipment, and live ecommerce are under the microscope.

ClipLine

Photo credit: quan le on Unsplash

ClipLine has created a platform that allows businesses to make short clips for internal communication. Such clips can be used for various purposes: training videos, performance reviews, user manuals, etc. The startup’s client list includes major Japanese companies like fast-food chain Yoshinoya and high-end department store Takashimaya as well as retail shops and healthcare companies.

ClipLine’s big customers seem to have drawn in big cash. This week, it secured US$5.7 million from INCJ and Aoki Holdings.

Co-Labo Maker

Photo credit: Ousa Chea on Unsplash

Co-Labo Maker just released the beta version of its sharing platform for experiment equipment. Researchers engaged in scientific experiments often need certain equipment for only a short period of time, but they are forced to pay for them in full. Co-Labo Maker addresses this problem by allowing for the rental of idle equipment to researchers. Currently, there are approximately 50 pieces of equipment available at different locations throughout Japan.  

Co-Labo Maker also scooped up US$280,000 from Primal Capital and Japan Finance Corporation.

Exest

Photo credit: Louie Martinez on Unsplash

Exest connects foreign tourists to English-speaking local guides in Japan via its matching platform, WOW U. More tourists are visiting Japan each year, so the startup hasn’t cornered the market: US-based Detour and Airbnb also offer tours in the country.

Exest partners with 20 Japanese broadcasting companies and works to transmit content overseas through its WoWUmedia Facebook page. Tours are mapped all over Japan and range from food trips, spiritual journeys, and outdoor adventures.  

The startup just raised US$470,000 from Mizuho Capital, MUFG Capital, SMBC Venture Capital, TSS, and a few angel investors.

 Blast

Crowdport

Hokan

Every

Delighted

Embrace

Oct Inc.