Singapore/Japan/Korea
The Edgeof, a newly formed ecosystem builder and venture capital entity, and SoftBank Group Corp. (“SBG”) today announced that they have agreed on plans in which The Edgeof will acquire SoftBank Ventures Asia Corp. (“SBVA”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of SBG, to establish a pan-Asian ecosystem for pioneering startups. The Edgeof was founded by Founder Taizo Son, and Co-founder and Chairman Atsushi Taira, who are highly experienced investors and serial entrepreneurs. The acquisition is contingent upon regulatory approval and is expected to be completed this year.
Following the acquisition, a fresh brand identity will be unveiled to signify the firm’s commitment to cultivating groundbreaking technologies across the region. The strategic initiative aims to enhance support, development, and expansion of startups poised to transform the world, spanning from Singapore to the greater Pan-Asian market.
Taizo Son and Atsushi Taira are innovative and socially conscious entrepreneurs who are dedicated to creating positive change through technology and business. The Edgeof was established to build upon Mistletoe’s eight-year legacy of nurturing over 170 innovative startups committed to social and environmental sustainability.
“Through this acquisition, we aspire to build an ecosystem that enables visionary entrepreneurs and their startups to effect significant, positive societal change,” said Atsushi Taira, Co-Founder, Chairman of The Edgeof.
Taizo Son, Founder, The Edgeof, said, “We are confident that our collective strengths and resources will ignite a new era of revolutionary technologies and solutions, establishing us as a prominent influence in developing and expanding αStartups worldwide.”
JP Lee, CEO of SBVA, said, “We are excited to commence this new journey with The Edgeof. By joining forces, SBVA will be able to leverage its expertise, insights, and network to support visionary entrepreneurs in their endeavours and enable them to make a lasting global impact that transcends Asia.”
Yoshimitsu Goto, Board Director, Corporate Officer, Senior Vice President, SBG, said, “SoftBank Ventures Asia has invested in and supported the growth of innovative technology startups with global potential. I believe that The Edgeof, run by leaders with extensive knowledge and excellent track records in startup investment, will further strengthen the ecosystem for tech startups.”
The Edgeof is committed to creating a sustainable and better world by tackling pressing global challenges, such as climate change and sustainability, through innovative initiatives. The new entity aims to be Asia’s leading Venture Capital and Ecosystem Builder, helping αStartups expand across borders and grow exponentially.
αStartups are distinguished by their radical innovation, positive impact, and potential to scale globally. It will trigger fundamental changes in energy, water, agriculture, food, sustainability, AI/robot-driven changes in societies, healthcare, learning, and all things essential for the next generations.
Both The Edgeof and SBVA bring unique strengths to the newly formed entity. The Edgeof has strong expertise in establishing a collaborative community that fosters peer-to-peer communication, serendipitous encounters, and strategic connections among founders, investors, and partners. Meanwhile, SBVA will identify and invest in promising αStartups based in Asia or those with a global presence interested in the Asian market. To support the full lifecycle of these startups, multiple funds will be established, ranging from early to growth stages, enabling co-investment alongside similar-minded investors. Building strong relationships with LP investors and corporate partners will be a priority for the newly formed entity.
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