UTokyo Innovation Platform Co., Ltd.

Established in 2016, UTokyo Innovation Platform Co., Ltd. (UTokyo IPC) is the first venture capital firm wholly owned by the University of Tokyo. The firm focuses on investing in university-affiliated startups, aiming to bridge the gap between academic research and societal implementation. UTokyo IPC manages two primary funds: the IPC1 Fund and the Accelerating Open Innovation Fund 1 (AOI Fund 1), with a combined investment capacity of approximately 50 billion yen. These funds target corporate spinoffs, joint ventures, and seed-stage startups that leverage industry-established assets and academia-nurtured results.

In addition to financial investments, UTokyo IPC operates the 1stRound incubation program, collaborating with 13 Japanese universities and 24 leading corporations. This program supports early-stage academic startups by providing mentorship, resources, and funding to prepare them for successful first-round funding. The firm also runs the DEEPTECH DIVE platform, connecting professionals such as researchers, engineers, and business veterans with opportunities in the deep tech sector.

UTokyo IPC's portfolio includes startups in various industries, including life sciences, healthcare, agritech, space, robotics, hardware, IT, services, and artificial intelligence. The firm has a track record of supporting startups that have achieved significant milestones, including listings on the Tokyo Stock Exchange. By fostering innovation ecosystems around the University of Tokyo, UTokyo IPC contributes to the development of new industries and sustainable value creation, both within Japan and globally.