Startup Genome launched the first cohort of the Global Hypergrowth Tokyo late-stage scaling program in March 2024 in partnership with the Tokyo Metropolitan Government. The initiative aims to propel the best Tokyo tech companies into successful global commercialization and expansion into international target markets.

The program addresses a significant support gap for fast-growing startups, recognizing them as drivers of economic growth and competitiveness, and creators of sustainable jobs and societal wellbeing. In its inaugural cohort, Hypergrowth provides 21 companies from Tokyo with access to global mentors, expert scaling advice from leading executives, go-to market support, and connections to potential new customers and investors.

The companies selected represent a variety of sub-sectors, including Deep Tech, Life Sciences, and AI, and have raised close to $100 million in total funding as they look to expand overseas.

In this article series, Startup Genome introduces the cohort companies, exploring the groundbreaking technologies each startup is developing to make a positive impact on the world.

Introducing Electronics Startup Elephantech

Elephantech offers the world-leading industrial inkjet solution utilizing proprietary AI technology, NeuralJet™. This solution enables the mass production of SustainaCircuits™, the world's first purely additive-manufactured printed circuit boards(FPCs/RPCBs), which minimize resource waste, resulting in significant decarbonization and lower manufacturing costs.

Its cutting-edge high-precision inkjet printing technology enables various challenging high-precision printing applications with a wide range of materials, including uniform submicron thin-film coating, driving innovation in semiconductor packaging and FPD manufacturing industries.

Elephantech’s innovations create a more efficient manufacturing process that halves the steps taken in the conventional manufacturing model. The company’s material requires less metal soldering points in the circuit, reducing resistance to electricity and power use. The manufacturing process reduces the carbon footprint and uses 1/20th of the water traditionally needed.

Q&A with Elephantech COO & Executive Officer Satoshi Konagai

Startup Genome spoke to Elephantech for a look into its groundbreaking technology, biggest challenges, and future innovations.

Startup Genome (SG): Can you explain the core mission of your organization and how your technologies are advancing the field?

Satoshi Konagai (SK): Our mission is “Making the world sustainable with new manufacturing technologies.” Elephantech is a Japanese green tech startup that has succeeded in using metal inkjet printing technology to mass produce printed circuit boards. Our additive manufacturing technologies are essential for achieving decarbonization and biodiversity in the electronics industry and we aim to establish a sustainable industry standard by continuing to scale these technologies.

SG: What are the biggest challenges your organization faces and how are you addressing them?

SK: We offer advanced industrial inkjet solutions, initially focusing on printed circuit boards. We're now scaling production and exploring semiconductor back-end processes. However, our limited market presence, especially internationally, hinders our ability to reach potential clients in device and semiconductor manufacturing, and material manufacturers who could benefit from our technology.

SG: How does your organization differentiate itself from other companies in the sector, particularly in terms of technology and business model?

SK: We possess extensive intellectual property and expertise in industrial inkjet solutions. Our partnership with Seiko Epson Corporation, the global leader in inkjet technology and one of our major shareholders, grants us exclusive access to their cutting-edge printhead technology. This collaboration enables us to be the sole manufacturer of industrial printing presses for mass production utilizing these advanced printheads. Furthermore, our in-house capabilities extend to material development and process design, setting us apart from other equipment manufacturers. This unique combination allows us to offer comprehensive industrial inkjet solutions to our clients, encompassing not only hardware but also tailored manufacturing processes. Our holistic approach ensures that we can deliver end-to-end solutions that address the specific needs of various industries, from concept to implementation.

SG: What support has your organization received through Startup Genome/Hypergrowth?

SK: Industry experts provided feedback on our sales strategy for the North American and European markets. They have provided us with appropriate contacts from their extensive networks.

SG: How does your organization plan to contribute to sector growth, and what are your long-term goals for the company?

SK: Our mission is to become the premier inkjet solution provider in the electronics industry. We aim to promote sustainability by integrating our eco-friendly technology into printed circuit board and thin-film coating markets, including semiconductor manufacturing. Looking ahead, we plan to diversify beyond inkjet technology, establishing ourselves as a comprehensive electronics manufacturing equipment innovator.

For a deeper look at the Tokyo ecosystem and to learn more about the Global Hypergrowth Tokyo cohort companies, Explore Tokyo.