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.

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.

ASICS Ventures operates as a wholly-owned subsidiary of ASICS Corporation and invests using corporate capital allocated for strategic venture activity. While it can lead rounds on its own term sheet, investments are typically made with a clear pathway to integration within ASICS' product ecosystem, distinguishing it from an independent financial VC.

The primary base of activity is Japan, with additional deal scouting in North America and the Middle East. The unit has publicly co-hosted innovation pitch events with the Saudi Sports for All Federation, indicating a targeted interest in markets with growing sports participation infrastructure.

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.

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.

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.