Funds Startups Supporting LocationMind's Global Expansion
Funds Startups, a prominent venture capital firm based in Shibuya, Tokyo, has recently executed a venture debt agreement with LocationMind, a deep tech company originating from the University of Tokyo. LocationMind specializes in advanced analytics solutions utilizing location-based big data for major corporations and government entities both domestically and internationally. This strategic financing was officially announced on July 4, 2025, and aims to bolster LocationMind's global footprint, particularly in the U.S. market, after their recent acquisition of Irys, Inc., a company focused on location-based big data services in the U.S.
Background of the Investment
LocationMind has its roots in the esteemed Shibaseki Laboratory at the University of Tokyo, a global authority in spatial information. The company's innovative approach allows it to provide essential analytical services that address various societal challenges, making it an invaluable resource for both public and private sectors. The financing obtained through this venture debt will significantly contribute to the costs associated with their recent acquisition of Irys, completed in May 2025, marking an important step in their strategy to enhance their service offerings and market presence.
As the global startup ecosystem continues to expand, Japan's role in this landscape is becoming increasingly crucial. However, securing growth capital remains challenging, especially in M&A finance, where understanding transaction intricacies is essential. Funds Startups aims to illuminate these complex scenarios through collaborative efforts, offering innovative solutions.
About LocationMind
Having established a strategy focused on analyzing location data worldwide, LocationMind operates in approximately 80 countries, including ventures into the Middle East and Southeast Asia. The recent cross-border M&A with Irys is a testament to the company's ambition for further growth and global strategic positioning.
Press Release: LocationMind
Article on Note
Commentary from Executives
### Ryo Ogawa, CFO of LocationMind
"We are immensely grateful for the venture debt support we have received. Completing the acquisition of a U.S. company marks a pivotal moment for LocationMind. One of the significant challenges for startups pursuing cross-border M&A is the complexity of financing. Factors such as being a venture enterprise, language barriers, cultural differences, and due diligence bring various difficulties. The support from Funds Venture Debt Fund has been unwavering, helping us navigate these challenges. This type of dedicated partnership is crucial for fostering startups capable of competing globally, and we are eager to explore more M&A opportunities moving forward."
### Masato Sasaki, Investment Officer at Funds Venture Debt Fund
"It is a pleasure to contribute to LocationMind's capital-raising efforts for their global expansion. The company's superior analytical capabilities in location data are at the forefront of innovation globally. Their pursuit of cross-border social implementation, leveraging research from the University of Tokyo, represents a textbook-worthy model for maintaining sustainable economic development, requiring continuous innovation. Witnessing the services and technology that make society's 'flow of people' visible truly excites me as an investment officer.
Supporting a deep tech company through such a complex M&A process certainly comes with numerous deliberations; however, we were motivated to assist LocationMind in accelerating its global agenda centered on the critical U.S. location data market. We look forward to aiding them in realizing their vision of becoming a leading entity in spatial information and fostering a 'Geospatial Native' world."
About Funds Startups
Funds Startups, established in December 2023 as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Funds, aims to develop mechanisms for startups to achieve optimal growth while creating social impact. As the general partner of the Funds Venture Debt Fund, Funds Startups manages the fund operations and provides essential support related to venture debt for startups. With ambitions extending beyond mere financing, the company is poised to serve as a specialized investment bank for startups, enhancing their capital-raising avenues and fostering a conducive environment for growth.