FUNDINNO and Phillip Securities Join Forces to Innovate Funding for Fukuoka Stock Exchange

Collaboration Between FUNDINNO and Phillip Securities

In a significant move aimed at diversifying funding options for companies listed and seeking to list on the Fukuoka Stock Exchange (Fukuoka Securities Exchange or Fukuoka Stock Exchange - FSE), FUNDINNO Co., Ltd., headquartered in Minato-ku, Tokyo, and Phillip Securities Co., Ltd., based in Chuo-ku, Tokyo, have announced the start of their joint activities under a business partnership agreement signed in July 2025. This initiative focuses on supporting both existing listed firms and those aspiring for listing, particularly through the Fukuoka PRO Market (FPM), which is tailored for professional investors.

Background and Goals of the Collaboration

FPM operates with an F-Adviser system, inspired by the J-Adviser framework of the Tokyo PRO Market, which was established following amendments to the Financial Instruments and Exchange Act in 2008. The goal of FPM is to provide new listing opportunities for enterprises with high potential in regions including Kyushu and Okinawa, as well as other Asian countries. This market is progressively expanding its number of listed companies, enhancing their credibility and potentially accelerating growth.

Despite the potential of listed companies in FPM to raise capital, challenges remain regarding accessibility to growth funds and ensuring liquidity for shares. The recent upsurge of dual listings in other professional markets signifies the heightened visibility and importance of FPM.

Through this partnership, Phillip Securities will leverage its experience as an F-Adviser for the already-listed eight firms (including one projected listing) to facilitate funding through the platform of FUNDINNO. With over 1,622 specific investors and a total transaction volume of 29,113 million yen, FUNDINNO’s platform will provide critical support.

Expected Outcomes

The dynamic between FUNDINNO and Phillip Securities aims to transform FPM from merely a platform for establishing credibility through listing into a robust, continuous funding source facilitating ongoing growth. In working together, both firms aspire to enhance the attractiveness of FPM for startups and growing companies, contributing significantly to the evolution of Japan's startup ecosystem.

Comments from Leadership

Yuki Shibahara, CEO of FUNDINNO

"The collaboration with Phillip Securities, a leader within the F-Adviser sphere of FPM, represents a significant step towards realizing our vision of 'Creating a Future Where Challenges are Faced Fairly.' We aim to provide a seamless support system that helps companies at various stages of their lifecycle, from startups to established firms, utilizing the structure we've developed for supporting unlisted companies in a public market such as FPM. By increasing the options for securing 'capital' and 'partners (investors),' we are dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs shaping Japan's future. We are particularly thrilled to announce this collaboration on the first anniversary of FPM."

Makoto Nagahori, President of Phillip Securities

"On this significant day, marking the first anniversary of FPM, I am genuinely pleased to announce our project collaboration with FUNDINNO targeting listed companies within FPM. Supporting corporate development does not stop at simply achieving a listing on the exchange; it is vital to consider how to assist ongoing company growth thereafter. Partnering with FUNDINNO, known for its extensive network for individual investors and innovative platform, will address critical issues such as funding and liquidity for our client companies. I strongly believe this collaboration will pave the way for innovative companies while invigorating the Kyushu economy and Japan as a whole."

Insights from Fukuoka Stock Exchange

Hidenori I, the Executive Director of Fukuoka Stock Exchange, stated: "The business collaboration between FUNDINNO and Phillip Securities represents a promising initiative embodying the vision of Fukuoka PRO Market to provide a space where ambitious startups can gain broad support from market participants, thus expanding growth pathways. We will actively engage with relevant parties to revitalize the market and ensure it remains appealing for both enterprises and professional investors. We earnestly wish for the success of both companies."

About FUNDINNO

FUNDINNO is Japan’s first equity crowdfunding platform that aims to open venture markets to remove informational and opportunity gaps between entrepreneurs and investors. Our mission is to create a future where challenges can be faced fairly, by providing various options for entrepreneurs and delivering investor support directly to them. We continue to drive change towards a future that opens up for those with aspirations. For more details, visit FUNDINNO.

About Phillip Securities

Phillip Securities operates under the brand concept of 'Understanding and Changing', offering insights that make investment enjoyable and participatory. As part of PhillipCapital, which spans 15 countries and boasts memberships with 26 major global exchanges, Phillip Securities continues to uphold its legacy since its inception in 1944 as an influential player within the financial industry. Find out more at Phillip Securities.