Japan-based robotic process automation technology provider RPA Holdings has formed a corporate venture capital subsidiary called Open Ventures.
The unit will back pre-seed and seed-stage startups founded by young entrepreneurs working on technology in areas such as automation, artificial intelligence (AI), the internet of things (IoT) and regional revitalisation.
In addition to funding, RPA Holdings will provide hands-on support to portfolio companies in areas such as accounting, human resource and legal affairs. Takayuki Ishii will oversee Open Ventures’ activities as its president and CEO, and will be joined by RPA Holdings founder Tomomichi Takahashi.
The company was founded in 2000 as Open Associates and initially provided internet-focused consulting service to large corporations, before rebranding to RPA Holdings in 2016. Its past corporate venturing deals include investments in AI startup Cinnamon AI and IoT device maker Cami & Co.
