Information on the Target

The University of Tokyo Innovation Platform Development Co., Ltd. (East Japan, Headquarters: Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo; CEO: Kosuke Ueda) has decided to invest in Visban Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Setagaya-ku, Tokyo; CEO: SB Cha), a company focused on developing products that expand the coverage of millimeter-wave communication. This investment is part of the Open Innovation Promotion No. 1 Investment Limited Partnership (AOI Fund), managed by East Japan IPC.

This investment in Visban is a joint undertaking with other notable investment funds managed by companies such as Dai Nippon Printing Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo; CEO: Yoshinari Kitajima) and Mitsubishi Material Corporation (Headquarters: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; CEO: Naoki Ono).

Industry Overview in Japan

Recent technological advancements, including VR/AR, 8K high-definition video, and autonomous driving, demand wireless communication with unprecedented speed, low latency, and wide bandwidth. As the demand for millimeter-wave technology increases, challenges remain regarding its adoption, such as limited range and signal obstruction from buildings and trees, necessitating the deployment of numerous base stations, leading to substantial infrastructure costs.

Japan's strength in manufacturing, particularly in high-frequency materials and components, makes it an attractive location for innovation in millimeter-wave technology. The robust infrastructure and commitment to advanced technologies, supported by strategic backing from domestic investors, provide a fertile ground for technology-driven startups like Visban.

Visban is dedicated to addressing these challenges by developing reliable and stable millimeter-wave solutions at low costs, aiming to provide high-quality wireless communication suited for various advanced technological applications.

The company’s V-Mesh technology utilizes glass substrates in RF devices, facilitating both single-sided and double-sided device manufacturing. This technology enhances antenna sensitivity while reducing losses, thus enabling cost-effective production. Collaborations with Taiwan's Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) and development processes with major flat-panel display manufacturers are ongoing.

The Rationale Behind the Deal

The investment in Visban by the AOI Fund is rooted in the desire to foster innovation through collaboration between academia and industry. By leveraging Visban's cutting-edge technologies and their application in local 5G networks, the aim is to accelerate the practical implementation of their V-Mesh technology, particularly in the rapidly evolving telecommunications sector.

As a pre-formation candidate recognized in the 1st Round program, Visban's potential in the market, combined with the support from the University of Tokyo IPC and its renowned investors, makes this an opportune time to invest in the company.

Information About the Investor

The AOI Fund, established in 2020, focuses on promoting open innovation activities around the University of Tokyo, specifically through fostering collaboration between major companies and academia to support and invest in startups. The fund aims to create successful case studies of open innovation across various sectors by investing in emerging companies and ventures.

The University of Tokyo IPC continues to strengthen its partnerships with venture capitalists and open innovation companies, targeting the commercialization of academic research and development outcomes by nurturing and investing in promising startups.

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Visban’s innovative approach to expanding millimeter-wave coverage has the potential to generate substantial benefits across multiple sectors, particularly in telecommunications. The combination of their strong team, which includes an expert in high-frequency signals and seasoned entrepreneurs, positions them well to capitalize on market opportunities.

Furthermore, the support received from prestigious investors like the University of Tokyo IPC, Dai Nippon Printing, and Mitsubishi Material indicates strong confidence in Visban’s capabilities and future success. Their focus on cost-effective solutions aligns well with current market needs and positions them favorably in a competitive landscape.

As Visban actively seeks to expand its team in Tokyo, the momentum gained from this investment will likely drive significant developments in their technology, paving the way for successful deployment of their V-Mesh network solutions by 2025.

In conclusion, the investment in Visban appears to be a promising opportunity, with a well-defined strategy and the backing of reputable partners aligning to enhance both their technological advancements and market reach.

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