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Tokitsukaze: Pioneering Change in Japan's Educational Landscape

Tokitsukaze Co., Ltd., a dynamic startup based in Itabashi, Tokyo, is making waves in Japan's education sector by concentrating on business succession in the private tutoring industry. The company has successfully completed its seed funding round, receiving investment from Link Capital, led by Yuuki Aono, as well as financial support from knowledgeable individual investors in the education sector and the Development Bank of Japan.

Understanding the Landscape

With approximately 50,000 private learning institutions in Japan, the educational market is estimated to be worth around 3 trillion yen. However, recent changes in demographics and the rise of generative AI have created unprecedented challenges. The CEO, Rinyuu Tanitsu, has observed a concerning trend: many learning institutions are struggling to attract students due to a declining birth rate and shifting educational needs. Predictions indicate that the number of bankruptcies in the education sector is set to reach record highs by 2024 and 2025.

Tanitsu emphasizes that many tutoring center owners are dedicated educators who have passionately upheld their teaching philosophies, often putting their personal wealth on the line to sustain their institutions. They face immense pressure in a changing market that complicates their ability to continue operating as they have in the past.

A Vision for Sustainability

Tokitsukaze aims to preserve the ideals of these esteemed educators by facilitating a succession plan that ensures that local educational infrastructures can thrive for future generations. Their strategy involves a continuous series of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) focusing specifically on small-to-medium-sized educational institutions. This proactive approach is essential to provide stability and growth within the industry.

Future Plans and Growth

The recent capital raised will accelerate several key initiatives, including: 1) Acquisition and succession planning for small tutoring centers; 2) Recruitment of talented personnel; and 3) Value enhancement for affiliated entities. Tokitsukaze encourages interested learning institutions, regardless of their scale or transfer pricing, to reach out for consultation on succession matters. Both direct inquiries from tutoring center owners and referrals via M&A intermediaries are welcome.

Furthermore, Tokitsukaze is on the lookout for founding members who can take charge of sourcing acquisition candidates, conducting post-merger integration, and enhancing value. They value individuals willing to take substantial responsibilities within a culture that emphasizes a balance between social impact and economic viability. Experience in the education field is not a prerequisite for applications.

Insight from Investors

Yuuki Aono, a representative partner at Link Capital, shares his perspective on the evolving educational landscape. He believes that as access to teaching materials becomes easier and more affordable, the philosophies and aspirations of local tutors and educational institutions will become increasingly significant for students. He stresses the need for a robust management framework to address the challenges of demographic changes and the aging of tutoring center owners.

Shogo Takeguchi, co-representative of Will Door Inc., draws attention to the concerning reality that those who need change the most often have the least access to opportunities. He views Tokitsukaze's M&A strategy as a viable method for preserving valuable educational resources while fostering future growth. He commends the founders, Tanitsu and COO Tachibana, for their commitment to explore essential educational needs despite facing challenges along the way.

The CEO's Commitment

At just 21 years old, CEO Rinyuu Tanitsu has made a significant impact on the field of education. After attending the University of Tokyo and briefly studying at the University of California, Berkeley, he focused his efforts on addressing the gaps in the educational experience. By founding Tokitsukaze, he aims to establish a sustainable educational framework that will foster the next generation of talent in Japan.

Tanitsu expresses gratitude to those who believe in his vision and have made financial contributions to the startup. His commitment to balancing social impact with economic rationality in education serves as a driving force for the company's future endeavors.

Company Profile

• - Company Name: Tokitsukaze Co., Ltd.
• - Representative: CEO Rinyuu Tanitsu
• - Established: October 24, 2025
• - Capital: 1 million yen (as of January 20, 2026)
• - Location: 2-57-6 La Lino 301, Higashi-Shinmachi, Itabashi, Tokyo
• - Business Overview: M&A operations for tutoring centers and comprehensive consulting services focused on the education sector.
• - Website: Tokitsukaze