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ASICS Ventures
ASICS Ventures invests in and collaborates with startups that have advanced technology, services, and talent contributing to ASICS VISION2030, aiming to...
ASICS Ventures
ASICS Ventures invests in and collaborates with startups that have advanced technology, services, and talent contributing to ASICS VISION2030, aiming to accelerate innovation. Under VISION 2030 and Mid-Term Plan 2026's global × digital policy, it seeks partners for joint development of advanced digital services, brand experience (CX) improvement, and athlete performance improvement. It has invested in more than 20 startups in 10 countries worldwide (as of June 2025). Its business is venture investment and business development promotion.
General information
Firm type
Venture Capital
Year founded
2016
Location
Region
Asia
Country
Japan
City
Kobe
Corporate office
1-2-4, Sannomiyacho, Chuo-ku, Kobe, 650-0021, Japan
Principals
Daisuke Akiyama
Representative Director
Akihiko Sadaka
Executive Officer, Business Development
Sector focus
Frequently asked questions
What is the investment mandate of ASICS Ventures?
ASICS Ventures invests in early-stage companies developing technologies that enhance athletic performance, digital fitness, and sustainable manufacturing. The strategic goal is to create commercial synergies with ASICS Corporation's global footwear and apparel operations, rather than generating standalone financial returns. The unit looks for startups where the parent company can serve as a distribution partner, co-developer, or anchor customer.
Who runs investment decisions at ASICS Ventures?
Daisuke Akiyama serves as the Representative Director of ASICS Ventures Corporation, leading investment decisions and strategic direction. Akihiko Sadaka supports deal flow as the Executive Officer in charge of Business Development, functioning as the bridge between portfolio companies and ASICS' broader corporate structure.
How does ASICS Ventures approach digital assets and Web3?
ASICS Ventures has engaged with the digital asset space through the launch of the ASICS Sunrise Red NFT collection and a partnership with Digital Entertainment Asset (DEA). This reflects a thesis around the gamification of fitness, where blockchain-based rewards and digital wearables incentivize physical activity and brand loyalty.
What is the relationship between ASICS Ventures and the ASICS Institute of Sport Science?
ASICS Ventures operates as the external innovation funnel for the ASICS Institute of Sport Science, the parent company's core R&D division. The venture unit sources startups with novel biomechanics, material science, and digital sensing technologies that can be developed and validated through the Institute's testing protocols.
What is ASICS Ventures' stance on sustainability and materials science?
The unit actively screens for startups developing advanced materials and sustainable manufacturing processes applicable to athletic footwear and apparel. This aligns with ASICS Corporation's broader environmental targets, including reducing carbon emissions across its supply chain and increasing the use of recycled materials in product lines.
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