Nikon-SBI Innovation Fund

The Nikon-SBI Innovation Fund is a corporate venture capital fund established jointly by Nikon Corporation and SBI Investment Co., Ltd. in July 2016. The fund focuses on investing in Nikon's existing business areas and emerging technologies such as IT, AI, and robotics. In November 2023, the fund was expanded with the launch of 'Nikon-SBI Innovation Fund II,' targeting investments in aerospace, energy, and carbon-neutral technologies. The fund size is 5 billion yen, with an operation period of seven years. Nikon aims to collaborate with venture companies to incorporate cutting-edge technologies and business models, fostering new business creation and synergies. The fund has made investments in various sectors, including 3D printing, healthcare, and robotics, supporting Nikon's strategic growth and innovation initiatives. Through these investments, Nikon seeks to enhance its technological capabilities and contribute to the advancement of industries such as aerospace, energy, and environmental energy. The fund's activities align with Nikon's Medium-Term Management Plan, focusing on expanding into new business areas and strengthening its position in the global market. By leveraging the expertise of SBI Investment, the fund aims to identify and support promising startups that can drive Nikon's future growth and success.

The Nikon-SBI Innovation Fund operates with a clear investment strategy, targeting early-stage and growth-stage companies that offer innovative solutions in line with Nikon's strategic interests. The fund's geographical focus includes Japan, the United States, France, and the United Kingdom, reflecting Nikon's commitment to global collaboration and market expansion. The fund's diverse portfolio spans industries such as aerospace, energy, carbon-neutral technologies, 3D printing, healthcare, robotics, biotechnology, environmental energy, IT, AI, robotics, consumer electronics, manufacturing, construction, marine, automotive, and more. This broad industry focus enables the fund to support a wide range of startups and technologies, fostering innovation and growth across multiple sectors.

Through its investments, the Nikon-SBI Innovation Fund aims to accelerate Nikon's open innovation initiatives, driving the development of new products and services that meet the evolving needs of the global market. The fund's collaborative approach with venture companies and startups facilitates the exchange of knowledge and resources, leading to the creation of new business opportunities and the realization of business synergies. Nikon's commitment to open innovation is further demonstrated by its establishment of other funds, such as the NFocus Fund in collaboration with Geodesic Capital in August 2024, and its active participation in various corporate venture capital activities. These efforts underscore Nikon's dedication to fostering innovation and maintaining a competitive edge in the rapidly evolving technology landscape.