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.

Shinjuku, Tokyo-based Yukai Engineering is a robotics startup committed to making the world a fun place with robotics. The company specializes in developing robots that bring joy to life, providing companionship and bridging communication gaps. Its products include Qoobo, a therapeutic tailed cushion that wags when touched; BOCCO emo, a smart speaker communication robot connecting the family at a distance; AMAGAMI HAM HAM, a robot pet that gently nibbles fingers; and fufuly, a deep breathing robot that mimics respiratory motion to help users regulate breathing and induce relaxation.

Yukai Engineering aims to capitalize on the popularity of communication robots, supporting users by understanding behaviors, automatically performing tasks, and becoming an integral part of daily human life. The company’s products allow users to feel less stressed and lonely, increasing quality of life.

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

Shunsuke Aoki (SA): Yukai Engineering is aiming to create technology that enhances human wellbeing and enriches daily life through emotional engagement with robotics. We are pioneering emotionally engaging robots which provide comfort and companionship. Our robots can push the boundaries of human-robot interaction, which can lead to the broader acceptance of robots in homes and personal spaces. Thus, we are advancing robotics by creating products which can be seamlessly integrated into daily human life and helping to reshape perceptions of how robotic technology can support human wellbeing.

SA: The robotics field is highly competitive and emotionally engaging robots are a relatively niche market. Convincing the general public of the value of companion robots is still challenging. In order to create broader acceptance in the market, we are continuously designing robots that can resonate with the user's needs both functionally and emotionally.

SA: While many robotics companies focus on efficiency, productivity, or industrial applications, Yukai Engineering has a unique brand identity in the global robotics market by focusing on emotional engagement and therapeutic applications. Yukai Engineering has a capability of fast application of innovative technologies like integrating AI to enhance human interaction with our products to foster emotional connections.

SA: We have received support to overcome challenges related to globally commercializing our products and rapid expansion in the U.S. market. The commercialization support and mentoring are helping us to approach new areas and sectors.

SA: Yukai Engineering aims to grow the robotics sector by creating emotionally engaging, human-centered products, like a robotic cushion with a wagging tail and a breathing cushion that helps the user to breathe deeply. We focus on expanding our global presence, particularly in Europe and North America, and advancing AI technologies that enhance emotional interactions. Our long-term goal is to integrate robots into everyday life and every household, enriching experiences in healthcare, wellbeing, and beyond.