# Startbahn

Startup profile on Capital Atlas: https://capitalatlas.ai/startups/startbahn

- Industry: Internet
- Headquarters: Tokyo, Japan
- Website: www.startbahn.jp
- Total disclosed funding: $14M
- Latest round: Series B (May 12, 2021)
- Investors on record: 8

## About

Based in Japan, Startbahn, Inc. operates blockchain infrastructure focused on the creative industries. Its primary product, Startrail, enhances the authenticity and traceability of artworks through innovative technology solutions.Startbahn, Inc. specializes in blockchain technology for the creative sector, headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. The company was founded in 2014 and has completed a total of 3 deals, with its most recent deal occurring on May 12, 2021. In this round, Startbahn raised JPY 1.1 billion in Series B funding from investors including Miyako Capital, OPS, INC., SX Capital, TBS Innovation Partners, and The University of Tokyo Edge Capital Partners. The current CEO is Taihei Shii, who has a background in managing technology projects. Startbahn aims to utilize the funds raised to enhance blockchain certification processes to ensure artwork authenticity.Startbahn, Inc. specializes in blockchain infrastructure tailored for the creative industries, prominently featuring its flagship product, Startrail. This suite encompasses a web application, API, and NFC tags designed to ensure the reliability, authenticity, and traceability of artworks. The Startrail platform allows users to issue, manage, and transfer NFTs, catering to a diverse clientele that includes artists, galleries, and businesses of varying sizes looking to engage in the NFT ecosystem. Additionally, Startbahn offers innovative marketing solutions such as its QR-to-NFT service, which enhances customer engagement for both new and existing fans. The company's offerings are targeted at international markets, including North America and Europe, where the demand for digital asset management and traceability in art is rapidly growing.Startbahn, Inc. generates revenue through various transaction structures, primarily through B2B partnerships and direct-to-consumer interactions. Clients may engage with Startbahn by subscribing to its API services, which facilitate the seamless integration of blockchain features into their existing platforms. The company also supports projects and businesses of all sizes by providing NFT issuance and management services, which may include automated functions for transferring ownership. Additionally, Startbahn's FUN FAN NFT service allows clients to create and manage marketing campaigns that convert real-world interactions into digital assets. This diversified revenue model strengthens Startbahn's position in the market as it collaborates with clients across the art sector to drive innovative blockchain solutions.In May 2021, Startbahn raised JPY 1.1 billion in Series B funding to reinforce the mechanics of blockchain certification for artwork authenticity and to increase its international appeal. The company plans to expand its product offerings and further enhance its Startrail platform, though specific new product details and release dates have not been disclosed. Additionally, Startbahn targets expansion into North American and European markets, aligning with the growing demand for digital asset management in the art industry. The funding will support these initiatives, facilitating the company's goal to successfully operate on a global scale.

## Funding rounds

- Series B, May 12, 2021, $10M — University of Tokyo Edge Capital Partners, Miyako Capital, TBS Innovation Partners, iSGS Investment Works, SX Capital, OPS, INC.
- Series A, Mar 19, 2019, $3.3M — University of Tokyo Edge Capital Partners, SBI Investment, Dentsu, SX Capital

## Investors

- University of Tokyo Edge Capital Partners (https://capitalatlas.ai/funds/university-of-tokyo-edge-capital-partners) — Series A, Series B
- SBI Investment (https://capitalatlas.ai/funds/sbi-investment) — Series A
- Dentsu — Series A
- SX Capital — Series A, Series B
- Miyako Capital (https://capitalatlas.ai/funds/miyako-capital) — Series B
- TBS Innovation Partners (https://capitalatlas.ai/funds/tbs-innovation-partners) — Series B
- iSGS Investment Works (https://capitalatlas.ai/funds/isgs-investment-works) — Series B
- OPS, INC. — Series B