Acario Innovation

Acario Innovation, founded in 2017, serves as the corporate venture capital arm of Tokyo Gas, based in Silicon Valley. Focused on transforming the future of energy, Acario invests in startups innovating within the new energy economy, particularly in the areas of energy storage, mobility, and grid services. Their mission is aligned with Tokyo Gas' decarbonization strategy, known as "Compass 2030," which emphasizes reducing carbon footprints and advancing sustainable energy solutions. Acario's portfolio includes impactful companies like Heila Technologies, Geli, and Electriphi, all of which contribute to the digital transformation of energy infrastructure. With a strong presence in both the U.S. and Japan, Acario’s investment strategy combines Silicon Valley's cutting-edge innovation with Tokyo Gas' deep industry expertise. The firm seeks early-stage companies that address critical energy challenges, supporting them through funding and strategic partnerships. Their focus extends to sectors such as decarbonization, hydrogen, and energy-as-a-service, with a specific interest in startups working on next-gen energy services and sustainable mobility. Led by Toshiharu Okui (CEO) and Shinji Amaha (Vice President), Acario operates from Menlo Park, California, providing a bridge between U.S. tech ecosystems and Japan’s energy market. Acario is actively engaged in fostering open innovation, collaborating with partners like Greentown Labs and Plug and Play to support the commercialization of climate tech and clean energy solutions​.