Osaka University Venture Capital Co., Ltd. was established in 2014 as a wholly owned subsidiary of Osaka University, with the mission of translating the intellectual assets and research achievements of Japanese universities into real-world impact. Our goal is to foster the creation and growth of innovative startups by bridging academia and industry to address societal challenges and generate new value.
Japan’s universities are home to researchers with world-class expertise and groundbreaking technologies; however, many of these academic insights have yet to be fully implemented in society. As a bridge between academia and industry, we go beyond providing financial support—we offer comprehensive backing that includes management support, business development, talent network formation, and the promotion of collaboration among academia, industry, and government.
In today’s world, global challenges such as climate change, healthcare, energy, and security require urgent and coordinated responses. We are committed to nurturing startups with a global perspective and competitive edge, leveraging the world-class research and networks of Japanese universities to empower entrepreneurs who are ready to take on international markets.
While rooted in Osaka University, our mission extends to partnering with the broader Japanese academic community to ensure that its knowledge benefits society as a whole. We sincerely appreciate your continued understanding and support. CEO
Akira Uotani

Koan Ogata, often called the father of modern medicine in Japan, was born the son of a samurai but chose medicine due to his frail health. He immersed himself in Dutch learning, especially Western medicine, and in the spring of 1838 (Tenpō 9), opened a medical practice in Osaka along with a private academy, Tekitekisai-juku (later Tekijuku). His legacy is well known in Japanese medical history. Tekijuku produced many key figures of the late Edo and Meiji periods, including Yukichi Fukuzawa, Masujirō Ōmura, Keisuke Ōtori, and Sanai Hashimoto. Ogata also made major contributions to smallpox treatment. In June 1858 (Ansei 5), his vaccination efforts were officially recognized by the Tokugawa Shogunate.
At a time when Japan was just beginning to absorb Western medical knowledge, Ogata was, in modern terms, a true innovator. Motivated by a deep passion—to learn Western medicine, advance healthcare, and save lives—he dedicated himself to developing smallpox treatments.
As of 2025, 187 years have passed since Tekijuku’s founding. Osaka University, Ogata’s academic successor, continues his mission through advanced research addressing today’s social challenges. Its vision: “Toward a university that leads social transformation.” Together with Osaka University, we aim to carry forward Ogata’s spirit. Through our investments, we are committed to:
“Creating a prosperous future by harnessing knowledge from academia.”
We sincerely appreciate your continued support as we pursue this mission. Director
Shinsaku Miyagi