Growth Hub #11 - By Founders, For Founders

The Growth Hub is our monthly gathering for an open exchange on the realities of building and scaling ventures in Japan.

​This month, we're excited to welcome Michitaka Tokeiji, CEO and Founder of Zeroboard Inc. A veteran of the finance industry turned climate-tech entrepreneur, Tokeiji-san has led Zeroboard through a remarkable growth trajectory. Despite being a Series A company, Zeroboard has already made waves by acquiring two companies (including Dataseed), showcasing a sophisticated approach to scaling that is rare in the early-stage startup ecosystem.

​What we'll explore:

​How does a young startup move from its first raise to acquiring other companies? We’ll be sitting down with Tokeiji-san to uncover the strategic rationale behind "growth by acquisition" and the financial expertise required to pull it off:

• ​The M&A Strategy: Why Zeroboard chose to acquire companies early in its journey and how these moves fit into their larger vision for the Japanese market.
• ​Fundraising from a Finance Perspective: Insights from a founder who transitioned from the world of finance to the startup frontlines—how to navigate rounds and build investor confidence.
• ​Scaling through Capital: The mechanics of funding acquisitions while still in the early stages of growth and how to manage the integration of new teams.
• ​The Future of Climate Tech: A look at Zeroboard’s mission to decarbonize the supply chain and why this sector is becoming a magnet for strategic investment.

​​This interactive discussion will be moderated by Francisco (Special Advisor, Shibuya City), with space for live Q&A.
The conversation will be conducted entirely in English.

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​🗼 About Shibuya Startup Support

Shibuya Startup Support is an initiative by the Shibuya City Office to support startups looking to launch or expand in Japan. We provide guidance, visa and incorporation support, and access to a thriving local ecosystem.

​​​✅ By attending the event, you agree to the Service Policy and Code of Conduct.
✅ By attending this event, you consent to being photographed or recorded for use in Shibuya Startup Support communications, including our website and social media channels.

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​​​🌱 About Tokyo Startup Lunch Club

We are a group of startup founders, investors and other people related to or interested in the startup scene, who gather every Tuesday at the Tokyo International Forum, starting from 11:30 AM to have lunch, share our experiences and discuss various topics in a casual environment.

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