#Japan #Tokyo #Startup Ecosystem #iCrowd #Impact Startup Association

iCrowd Joins the Impact Startup Association

In a significant move towards fostering sustainable growth and addressing social challenges, iCrowd Inc., a company that operates an investment platform connecting startups and individuals, has joined the Impact Startup Association (ISA) as a full member for its 6th term. This collaboration aims to yield positive societal impacts while working alongside member organizations of the ISA.

Aiming for Social Impact and Growth

iCrowd is dedicated to bridging the gap between individuals and startups that are taking on social issues. With approximately 2,200 trillion yen in financial assets held by individuals in Japan, iCrowd seeks to transform this pool of capital into a catalyst for growth, enhancing the startup ecosystem that is relatively underdeveloped compared to other regions.

The company also aims to increase the number of individuals involved in startup investments in Japan, thereby fostering a culture of innovation and proactive problem-solving in society.

By joining the ISA, iCrowd intends to strengthen its efforts in collaboration and communication towards solving societal challenges, contributing to the development of a robust impact startup ecosystem that achieves both social problem-solving and sustainable growth.

About the Impact Startup Association

The Impact Startup Association represents enterprises aiming to reconcile social challenge resolution with sustainable growth. Established on October 14, 2022, the ISA is focused on creating an ecosystem for impact startups that contribute to a sustainable society.

By working collaboratively with public and private sectors, the ISA aims to nurture an environment where startups that create positive impacts can thrive and continue to grow. Their activities are structured around four pillars: sharing, shaping, advocating, and communicating. Currently, there are 249 member companies aligned with the ISA's purpose, along with 15 supporting companies, including both Japanese and foreign corporations, that endorse the expansion of the impact economy.

Overview of iCrowd

Founded in 2020, iCrowd has pioneered equity crowdfunding that allows individuals to invest in startups starting at just 100,000 yen. Primarily catering to seed and early-stage startups, the company has supported over 40 firms, facilitating more than 1 billion yen in funding to date.

With increasing attention on supporting startups, funding options for entrepreneurs are diversifying. Equity crowdfunding is becoming particularly prominent as a means of backing businesses focused on social and regional issues, driven by shared values and business philosophies from investors.

Moreover, iCrowd is preparing a new service aimed at middle and late-stage startups, further accelerating the establishment of an ecosystem that connects startups with investors. This initiative is expected to enhance the vibrancy and effectiveness of the startup investment landscape.

Note: This press release is not intended as an investment solicitation.

General Information About the Impact Startup Association

• - Name: Impact Startup Association (一般社団法人インパクトスタートアップ協会)
• - Location: 7th Floor, Sumitomo Real Estate Ichibanchou Building, 8 Ichibanchou, Chiyoda, Tokyo
• - Official Website: Impact Startup Association

General Information About iCrowd Inc.

• - Company Name: iCrowd Inc. (イークラウド株式会社)
• - Financial Product Dealer License: Kanto Local Finance Bureau Director (Kinsho) No. 3181
• - Association Membership: Japan Securities Dealers Association
• - Headquarters: 4th Floor, Otemachi Building, 1-6-1 Otemachi, Chiyoda, Tokyo
• - CEO: Naohiko Hatada
• - Service Website: iCrowd Service
• - Corporate Website: iCrowd Corp.