Development Bank of Japan Inc. ("DBJ") has invested in Aster Co., Ltd. ("Aster").
Aster is the company that invented ASTERMOTOR®, an aluminum motor with exceptional power density, waterproof and dustproof capabilities (IP67) as well as eco-friendly attributes compared to conventional motors. Inspired by Mother Nature in the Tohoku region, Aster's vision, "Prosper in harmony with nature," represents the company's commitment to achieving Net Zero Emissions by implementing ASTERMOTOR® in various industrial areas.
The aim of this investment is to promote the expansion of production capacity and further R&D at Aster, which has just commenced mass production of AST Motor™. In addition, DBJ is to provide a wide range of support for the company's efforts in implementing ASTERMOTOR® in multiple industrial fields.
DBJ believes that this investment will contribute to strengthening the competitiveness of Japanese companies and improving the vitality of the economy and society. In this regard, DBJ will make the investment through the DBJ Startups and Innovation Fund*1, which is part of Special Investment Operations*2.
DBJ will continue to actively support clients' efforts to develop markets, revitalize local economies, and strengthen competitiveness through Special Investment Operations for growth capital.
*1 DBJ Startups and Innovation Fund was established to promote the creation and nurturing of startups and the development of innovation ecosystems under the Special Investment Operations category.
*2 Special Investment Operations, established as an intensive but temporary program to supply growth capital from the perspective of promoting the competitiveness of Japanese enterprises along with regional revitalization, draws only a portion of the investment (industrial investment account) from the Japanese government--enough to encourage the private sector to supply growth capital.
Inquiries:
Tohoku Branch
Telephone: +81-22-227-8181