Keio Innovation Initiative Increases Investment in Skygate Technologies for Defense and Security Solutions

Keio Innovation Initiative Boosts Investment in Skygate Technologies

In a strategic move to enhance its position in the defense and security sector, Keio Innovation Initiative (KII), headquartered in Minato, Tokyo, has announced an additional investment in Skygate Technologies. This investment will enable Skygate Technologies to raise a total of 1 billion yen, accelerating the development of cutting-edge technologies, products, and business initiatives aimed at solving pressing national security issues.

1. Aiming for Enhanced National Security

Skygate Technologies, located in Shibuya, Tokyo, has set a mission to tackle sustainability-related challenges by providing products and services related to defense and security. The global security environment has significantly deteriorated in recent years, making defense one of the most critical issues facing nations and communities alike. Japan is no exception; the Japanese government has outlined a national defense strategy that includes substantial enhancements to defense capabilities, aiming to boost defense spending to 2% of the country's GDP by 2025. This shift reflects the intensified investment by the government in the defense domain amid heightened security concerns.

The company's proactive approach is evidenced by securing a contract with the Japan Air Self-Defense Force to create security guidelines for space systems, showcasing its commitment to addressing challenges in the defense and security fields.

2. Strategic Funding for Future Growth

With this recent funding, Skygate Technologies is well-positioned to further its technological investments and business developments. The company intends to address more complex security challenges that have arisen in the current international landscape by leveraging advanced data technology and security solutions. This investment from KII not only bolsters the financial capabilities of Skygate Technologies but also aligns with KII's broader strategy to foster innovation and address societal issues stemming from academic research.

3. About Skygate Technologies

Company Name: Skygate Technologies, Inc.
Location: 1-30-14 Yoyogi, Shibuya, Tokyo
CEO: Takaki Awazu
Established: February 2020
Business Focus: Aerospace defense and cybersecurity business support and development
Website: www.skygate-tech.com

Skygate Technologies has quickly become a notable player in the defense tech startup space, making strides to develop solutions that ensure national resilience and sustainability. The recent funding will empower them to accelerate their product development timelines and broaden their impact in the sector.

4. About Keio Innovation Initiative (KII)

Founded in December 2015, KII supports startups leveraging research outcomes from Keio University. In January 2020, it embraced a mission to drive societal change through digital technology innovations and address health and medical challenges by focusing on lead investments in early-stage ventures.

In October 2023, KII launched its first impact fund, KII No. 3 Impact Fund, aiming to create a healthy, happy society wherein everyone can lead an active life. The fund seeks to deliver positive and measurable social and environmental impacts alongside financial returns through venture investments in academic startups.

Overview of KII

Company Name: Keio Innovation Initiative, Inc.
Business Focus: Nurturing technology-driven startups and operating venture capital funds
Capital: 100 million yen (includes 50 million yen in capital reserve)
CEO: Kotaro Yamagishi
Website: www.keio-innovation.co.jp

The content in this release reflects the information as of the date of announcement.