TokoShie: Revolutionizing Manufacturing with AI
In a noteworthy development,
TokoShie, a startup based in Suginami, Tokyo, has received acceptance into the prestigious
Techstars Tokyo program. TokoShie is on a mission to automate the entire process of design and manufacturing using artificial intelligence (AI). This initiative promises to democratize access to manufacturing technology, allowing anyone to create customized components without requiring extensive engineering knowledge.
The heart of TokoShie's innovation is the
Modeling Professional AI, a groundbreaking manufacturing engine that enables users to input natural language prompts, such as “I want to create this component.” The AI then seamlessly operates 3D CAD software to generate a 3D model, which can be automatically fabricated by a 3D printer via the cloud. This significantly streamlines the traditionally complex process of design and prototyping, making it accessible to a broader audience.
No Technical Expertise Required
One of the major advantages of TokoShie’s platform is its user-friendly interface. Users can simply upload text, images, or drawings, and the AI will handle everything from the design process to the selection of materials and slicing the model for printing. In fact, prototypes can be in hand as soon as the same day!
This is a significant shift from the traditional method which typically relied on skilled engineers to manage the intricate design-to-prototype workflow. TokoShie's technology not only enhances efficiency but also opens up opportunities for creativity and innovation among individuals and small businesses who previously lacked access to such advanced tools.
Support and Expansion Plans through Techstars
Through participation in the Techstars program, TokoShie is set to receive about
$120,000 in investment support, along with access to global mentors who will provide guidance on both business strategy and technology. Furthermore, the program will facilitate opportunities for showcasing their technology at international exhibitions and connect them with venture capitalists for potential funding.
Looking towards 2026, TokoShie has plans to launch a beta version in the United States, with future ambitions to integrate a decentralized manufacturing network and SaaS into what they term a “Manufacturing OS.” This unique approach envisions a world where anyone can easily design and produce components for their needs, reshaping the foundational ideologies of manufacturing in an increasingly digital age.
The Techstars Tokyo Program in Brief
The Techstars Tokyo program is highly competitive and effective, selecting only a handful of startups from thousands of applicants across 79 countries. This program, lasting approximately three months, aims to validate and refine business models through the Techstars network, culminating in a Demo Day where the selected startups will present their innovations to around
300 investors and industry professionals.
Key details of the program include:
- - Start Date: August 18, 2025
- - Location: Innovation Field Yaesu, Tokyo Midtown Yaesu
- - Demo Day: Scheduled for November 11, 2025
- - Organizers: Techstars in collaboration with Japan’s Cabinet Office, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, Tokyo Metropolitan Government, JETRO, and Mitsui Fudosan.
The Techstars Legacy
Founded in 2006, Techstars has built a solid reputation as one of the world’s leading accelerator programs, supporting thousands of startups across 33 cities globally. With an impressive portfolio that boasts over 4,400 invested companies and 20 unicorns, Techstars continues to foster innovation in various sectors. According to Pitchbook data from June 2023,
74% of Techstars-backed startups secure funding within three years, with
31% successfully exiting.
For more details about Techstars Tokyo, visit the official website
here.
Company Overview
- - Company Name: TokoShie, Inc.
- - Headquarters: Suginami, Tokyo
- - CEO: Ryutoku Watanabe
- - Business Focus: Development of AI-driven 3D modeling and automatic manufacturing platform
- - Website: tokoshie3d.xyz
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