#Japan #AI Technology #Tokyo #NEXTAGE #Wasabi

NEXTAGE's Ambitious Move to Innovate Wasabi Cultivation

Japanese company NEXTAGE has successfully raised 200 million yen in its Series A funding round's second close, led by Deepcore, a venture capital firm based in Tokyo. This funding is not merely an investment; it represents a significant leap towards transforming wasabi agriculture by integrating advanced AI technology into its operations. With this influx of capital, NEXTAGE aims to accelerate the development of its unique AI-enabled cultivation management system, upgrade cultivation techniques, and reinforce its organizational structure.

Vision and Background

Founded with the mission of utilizing technology to deliver fresh wasabi worldwide, NEXTAGE has been pioneering hydroponic cultivation techniques in container-based farms across Japan. Traditionally, growing wasabi has been a challenge due to its requirement for pristine, running water and specific environmental conditions. However, NEXTAGE has overcome these hurdles through innovative environmental control systems that allow for wasabi farming in closed environments.

The recent funding is set to amplify NEXTAGE's growth trajectory, focusing on three critical areas:
1. Enhancement of AI-Driven Cultivation Management
- Deployment of sensor technologies and image processing for automated monitoring of temperature, humidity, CO2 levels, water quality, and nutrient concentrations.
- Strengthening remote monitoring and alert systems.
- Adding features for growth predictions and yield simulations.

2. Upgrading Wasabi Cultivation Techniques
- Development of novel nutrient solutions that balance growth speed and quality.
- Creating long-haul preservation and transportation techniques targeting international markets.
- Establishing a system for ensuring uniformity in quality and stable supply.

3. Strengthening Organizational Structure
- Accelerating recruitment for various roles, including CxO positions, within development, sales, support, and operational back office.
- Enhancing collaborations with local partners for overseas expansion.
- Building an integrated operational system to streamline processes from production to sales.

Comments from Leaders

Masaya Naito, Senior Director at Deepcore, emphasized the growing global demand for wasabi, which is constrained by its limited growth environments. He noted that NEXTAGE is addressing these challenges through the integration of AI technology with hydroponic cultivation, paving the way for a consistent wasabi supply, which has traditionally been unreliable.

Takuya Nakamura, CEO of NEXTAGE, shared his enthusiasm about the partnership with Deepcore, highlighting the shared vision and mutual support beyond mere financial backing. He believes that this funding will allow NEXTAGE to accelerate its automation and expand its capabilities. As global interest in sushi and Japanese cuisine grows, the necessity for a reliable wasabi supply becomes increasingly crucial.

Looking Ahead

As climate change continues to threaten agricultural stability with rising temperatures and erratic weather, NEXTAGE is committed to addressing the global food production challenges, particularly in the context of wasabi farming, which is grappling with declining yield amid surging demand. By utilizing the newly raised funds, the company intends to expedite its mission of preserving and promoting the ancient Japanese culinary tradition of wasabi, ensuring it reaches global consumers.

NEXTAGE aspires to initially enhance its closed-container farming technology while exploring broader market opportunities for wasabi leaves, stems, and root stocks. With a vision extending beyond wasabi, the company is looking to set itself up as a leader in next-generation agricultural models emerging from Japan.

Recruitment Plans

In addition to technological advancements, strengthening the organizational structure remains a primary goal following this funding round. Individuals who resonate with NEXTAGE's mission are encouraged to apply through the company’s website, fostering a collaborative environment to support its long-term objectives.

To learn more about NEXTAGE, please visit their official website or follow them on social media for updates.