#Japan #esports #Yokohama #UTEC #CELLORB

CELLORB Takes a Leap Towards Independent Growth

In a major move for the eSports industry, CELLORB, a company based in Yokohama, Kanagawa, has successfully raised a significant amount of ¥1 billion. This funding was spearheaded by Tokyo University Edge Capital Partners (UTEC), positioning CELLORB for an exciting future.

Previously a subsidiary of DONUTS Corporation, CELLORB has now become an independent entity, signaling a new chapter in its growth. This development is coupled with the appointment of Taira Sakuma, a prominent figure in the industry and co-CEO of UserBase, as the new COO of CELLORB, paving the way for innovative leadership.

With the fresh infusion of capital, CELLORB plans to focus on crucial investments such as talent acquisition and the development of systems and intellectual properties. The goal is to expand the horizons of eSports and the broader gaming entertainment sector globally, thus aiming to establish eSports as a fundamental industry in Japan.

The Evolving Landscape of eSports

As the eSports field rapidly transforms, it finds itself at a pivotal growth stage. Upcoming events such as the eSports World Cup in 2024, which boasts a staggering prize pool of $70 million (around ¥10 billion), hint at a bright future ahead.

Legislative changes also favor the industry's expansion, with a revision of the Sports Basic Law in 2025 that will recognize eSports as a legitimate form of sport through the integration of information and communication technology. In line with this, the Japan eSports Union (JeSU) is anticipated to become a provisional member of the Japanese Olympic Committee in 2024, further legitimizing eSports on the global stage.

CELLORB emerged in 2024 through the fusion of two companies, VARREL and TOPANGA, and is committed to fostering sustainable growth in the eSports ecosystem. It is involved in managing the eSports team VARREL, supporting high school eSports activities through 'Kurasapo', and developing youth teams to nurture promising eSports players.

According to DFC Intelligence, the global gaming population stands at a staggering 3.7 billion. Video games are not only the most universal form of entertainment but can also bridge divides across borders and generations, fostering rich human connections.

CELLORB's vision is to amplify this potential worldwide and elevate eSports and gaming entertainment as a cornerstone of Japan's industry, evolving it into a sustainable cultural phenomenon.

Insights on the Funding Partners

UTEC has been instrumental in this funding round, having managed over ¥130 billion since its inception in 2004. Their focus is on addressing global challenges and creating new industries through venture capital endeavors.

According to Nobuaki Sakamoto, COO and Managing Partner at UTEC, the eSports domain CELLORB is delving into holds incredible potential. As technology merges further with entertainment, it can leave a profound impact beyond just gaming. While the industry’s value may not yet be fully recognized by the public, Japan holds a significant position in the gaming landscape, and CELLORB aims to leverage this heritage to become a pillar of the next generation of intellectual properties.

Other partners involved in this funding round include D4V, EX Innovation Fund, and various venture capital entities seeking to foster growth in emerging sectors.

Introducing Taira Sakuma

New COO of CELLORB

Taira Sakuma holds a master's degree in mathematics from Kyoto University and has a rich background in investment banking with UBS Securities. Over years, he has increasingly focused on democratizing economic information as co-CEO of UserBase until 2024.

In his own words, Sakuma shared, "I am deeply passionate about games and equally about eSports. Games have the power to connect individuals while delivering unique enjoyment. In a time dominated by technologies that prioritize efficiency, creating an inclusive space for everyone to enjoy might be our greatest societal challenge. I believe in the potential of games and am searching for like-minded individuals to join this journey."

About CELLORB

• - Company: CELLORB, Inc.
• - Location: 1-4-3 Asama-cho, Nishi-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa
• - CEO: Fumio Suzuki
• - Business: eSports Services
• - Website: cellorb.jp

This new era for CELLORB not only reflects its ambition but also highlights the burgeoning opportunities within the eSports landscape in Japan and worldwide.