ForStartups and Sparks Group Join Forces for Enhanced Startup Support and Growth Initiatives

Strategic Collaboration between ForStartups and Sparks Group

On October 30, 2023, ForStartups Inc. announced a significant capital and business partnership with Sparks Group Inc. This collaboration aims to enhance talent support for startups, reinforcing both companies’ commitment to fostering growth in the startup ecosystem.

Background of the Partnership

Founded in September 2016, ForStartups has been dedicated to supporting startup companies by providing talent acquisition services, focusing on executive-level staffing since its inception. By September 2025, they have successfully assisted over 5,400 professionals in various capacities.

In May 2025, ForStartups laid out its medium-term management policy, targeting the fiscal year ending March 2026 as the starting point for implementing its ambitious plan: the “Growth Industry Support Platform Concept.” This initiative aims to develop a comprehensive service offering that supports entrepreneurs, startups, and innovators in their journey towards success.

Conversely, Sparks Group, established in July 1989, has positioned itself as a pioneer among independent investment firms in Japan. The company primarily focuses on equity investment management and has been instrumental in fostering innovation through its “Future Creation Fund,” established in 2015. This fund aims to nurture and invest in companies that possess technologies contributing to future societal advancements, regardless of whether they are listed or not.

Objectives of the Capital and Business Partnership

The newly formed alliance intends to enhance ForStartups’ talent acquisition capabilities primarily by facilitating connections between Sparks Group’s investment portfolio companies and potential hires. With expanded job listings from ForStartups, this partnership is expected to significantly increase opportunities for job seekers, ensuring that the rapidly growing startup ecosystem is well-equipped with capable talent.

Moreover, by participating in the growth trajectory of these investment companies, both ForStartups and Sparks Group aspire to elevate their corporate value. They are committed to actively contributing to the evolution of the startup industry and expanding the startup ecosystem in Japan.

Collaborative Efforts

Under this partnership, ForStartups and Sparks Group will focus on the following cooperative initiatives:

- Providing valuable support and exit strategies for portfolio companies under the management of Sparks Group, primarily through the introduction of executive-level talent.
- Creating connections between capital-seeking companies supported by ForStartups and Sparks Group to foster mutual growth and resource sharing.

Conclusion

The collaboration between ForStartups and Sparks Group marks a significant milestone in the embrace of strategic partnerships within Japan's vibrant startup ecosystem. By leveraging each other’s strengths, they are poised to make a lasting impact on the growth and scalability of startups in the region. Both companies remain committed to not only enhancing their own businesses but also contributing to a more robust and sustainable economy by supporting the next generation of entrepreneurs and innovators in Japan.

Company Profiles

Sparks Group Inc.

- CEO: Shuhei Abe
- Established: July 1, 1989
- Business: Asset Management (Investment Advisory and Investment Trust Delegation)
- Stock Code: 8739 (Listed on the Tokyo Prime Market)
- Location: 6th Floor, Shinagawa Season Terrace, 1-2-70 Konan, Minato, Tokyo
- Website: sparx.jp