#Japan #Tokyo #Impact Capital #Waseda University #Deeper Humanity

Waseda University Impact Capital: A New Venture for Social Progress

In a significant step towards addressing societal challenges, Waseda University has launched the Waseda University Impact Capital Corporation (WIC). This new venture capital firm aims to integrate deep technology with insights from the humanities and social sciences, promoting a concept known as "Deep Humanity." The establishment of WIC follows the university's previous initiative, Waseda University Ventures (WUV), which focuses solely on deep tech to support technological implementation in society.

WIC is envisioned to be operational by 2026, aimed specifically at fostering impact investments that cater to real societal needs while aligning with Waseda University's long-term vision of becoming a university that contributes to global humanity by 2050. The university's aspiration is rooted in its foundational philosophy of utilizing academic knowledge to cultivate entrepreneurial initiatives that can create societal value.

Vision for 2050

As Waseda University looks towards 2050, the institution strives to transform into a leader in Japan's societal change through comprehensive knowledge-driven research and educational programs. As part of this vision, WUV was established in 2022 to accelerate projects that create social value via ventures anchored in the university's teachings. Notably, WUV has prioritized the implementation of deep tech solutions. In contrast, WIC aims to merge technology with humanities insights to realize social wellbeing, thereby laying the groundwork for a new impact venture capital fund.

The Relevance of WIC in the Age of AI

The recent acceleration of artificial intelligence (AI) technology signifies a shift where rational decisions may increasingly be made by AI. As a result, human experience and emotional intelligence are projected to gain greater importance. WIC acknowledges this developing landscape and emphasizes that solving contemporary societal issues necessitates not only technological knowledge but also an understanding of human and social system challenges. WIC intends to approach problems often overlooked in traditional deep tech investments by establishing this new venture capital firm.

WIC aims to create innovations underpinned by "Deep Humanity," investing in solutions that address diverse issues such as educational disparities, inadequate healthcare access, regional decline, aging populations, and mental health challenges. By collaborating with ethical entrepreneurs, WIC seeks to nurture companies that produce benefits and promote social happiness.

Understanding 'Social Wellbeing'

At the core of WIC's mission is the pursuit of social wellbeing, which extends beyond mere financial returns. The organization redefines social wellbeing as the happiness experienced by individuals and the society around them. WIC categorizes this concept into four essential components:
1. Optionality: A society where everyone can make life choices free from discrimination, allowing for equal opportunities.
2. Contributive Justice: An environment where all individuals, regardless of age, nationality, gender, or ability, can contribute meaningfully to society and have their efforts recognized.
3. Empathy & Respect: A culture fostering understanding and trust, minimizing division and disinformation in society.
4. Mental Wealth: A community where mental health is prioritized, allowing individuals to find meaning and stability in their lives.

A New Capitalism through 'Good Profit'

WIC plans to engage in impact investing, a practice aimed at generating measurable positive social impacts while pursuing financial returns. By leveraging this approach, WIC emphasizes the creation of 'Good Profit'—a concept elucidated in the work of Oxford's Colin Mayer, which asserts that profits should stem from resolving societal issues rather than causing harm. WIC is committed to ensuring that social impact and financial returns reinforce each other in its investments.

Guided by the principles of Waseda University, WIC not only aims to generate financial gains but also strives to address pressing societal problems, creating what they define as 'Good Profit.' Ultimately, WIC plans to embody the spirit articulated by the university’s founder, Shigenobu Okuma, who stated that there should be a bold ambition to contribute not just to one's own community but to the world at large.

Company Overview of Waseda University Impact Capital

• - CEO: Satoko Ohno (Alumnus of Waseda University, CPA)
• - Established: October 21, 2025
• - Capital: 10 million yen
• - Shareholders: WIC Partners LLC 70%, Waseda University Educational Corporation 30%
• - Mission: To confront humanity's challenges through integrated knowledge from humanities and social sciences, creating solutions to boost social happiness in partnership with visionary and ethical leaders.