#Japan #Tokyo #Startup Support #SMBC Edge #Japan's economy

Strengthening Support for Startups in Japan

In a bold move to invigorate Japan's economy, SMBC Group has launched a startup support initiative through its subsidiary, SMBC Edge. The initiative aims to foster the creation of unicorn companies, which are vital for driving innovation and sustaining economic growth. Under the leadership of CEO Hiroaki Yoshikawa, SMBC Edge is set to revitalize the startup ecosystem by leveraging a robust financial foundation and a wealth of expertise.

Background and Objectives

The SMBC Group has highlighted 'Japan's Re-Growth' as a key priority in its mid-term management plan. This involves addressing social issues and facilitating sustainable growth through active support of startups that can tackle these challenges. The group has set an ambitious goal to provide 135 billion yen in funding for startups over the next three years, a target they remarkably achieved within just 18 months.

However, the overall investment levels in Japanese startups and the number of unicorns remain low when compared to other countries. The creation of unicorns requires not just high-level technology and experienced management teams, but also stable funding, indicating a need for comprehensive multifaceted support.

With the mission of 'realizing Japan's re-growth through new industrial creation,' SMBC Group aims to address these challenges. Instead of solely providing financial backing, they seek to integrate various professional resources to support startups comprehensively through SMBC Edge.

Overview and Future Initiatives of SMBC Edge

Historically positioned as a holding company for SMBC Venture Capital, SMBC Edge is pivoting towards being the core entity of SMBC Group's domestic startup support efforts. This shift entails enhancing collaboration with investors, researchers, and domain experts to fully leverage the group's development and investment capabilities.

Going forward, SMBC Edge plans to implement the following initiatives:
1. Establishment of a fund with SMBC Edge as the General Partner (GP) by October 2025, marking the start of formal investment activities.
2. Collaboration with external investors and business entities for investing in startups.
3. Providing essential business development assistance, including support in areas like human resources, marketing, and international expansion.
4. Connecting Japan's startup ecosystem with global ecosystems, particularly across Asia.

Through these efforts, the SMBC Group aspires to enhance the international competitiveness of Japan's entire industry by constructing a system that effectively addresses the management challenges faced by startups.

Company Details

Name: SMBC Edge, Co., Ltd.

• - Formerly known as SMBC Venture Capital Management Co., Ltd. until September 2025 when it underwent a name change.

Headquarters: 4th Floor, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation Gofukubashi Building, 1-3-4 Yaesu, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, Japan.

CEO: Hiroaki Yoshikawa

Mission: Realizing the re-growth of Japan through the creation and nurturing of startups.

Services:
1. Investment and funding support for startups.
2. Business development assistance, including Bizdev, HR support, overseas expansion, marketing, and governance.

For more information, visit SMBC Edge's Website.