Eight Knot Inc. (Headquarters: Sakai City, Osaka; CEO: Yujin Kimura) is pleased to announce the completion of its Pre-Series A funding round in September 2024. Through a combination of third-party share issuance and loans from financial institutions, they have raised a total of 570 million yen. The lead investor for this round is <a href="https://spiral-cap.com/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Spiral Innovation Partners, Inc</a><a href="https://spiral-cap.com/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">.</a> Additional new investors include:<ul><li><a href="https://www.techv.co.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">ITOCHU Technology Ventures, Inc.</a></li><li><a href="https://qbc.co.jp/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">QB Capital, LLC</a> and <a href="https://ncbvc.co.jp/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">NCB Venture Capital</a></li><li><a href="https://www.oli.olc.co.jp/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Oriental Land Innovations Co., Ltd.</a></li><li><a href="https://www.kyokuyoshipyard.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Kyokuyo Shipyard Corporation</a></li><li><a href="https://iwakitec.co.jp/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">IWAKITEC Co., Ltd.</a></li></ul>Further support came from <a href="https://dronefund.vc/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">DRONE FUND Inc.</a>, the lead investor from the seed round. This latest round brings the total cumulative funding raised by the Company, including loans, to 760 million yen. <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/5332c340772547a7ab677c4b06102474/52c58d48d28a4a4997b02b6ca6ba6420/20241015%20Pre-Series%20A%20closed%20EN.png" alt="" width="1920" height="1280"> <h3 id="h82c7a646f3">Purpose of the Fundraising&nbsp;</h3>This round of funding aims to strengthen the development team to enhance the functionality of the Eight Knot AI CAPTAIN autonomous navigation platform for small vessels, which was announced in October 2022. Additionally, it will reinforce the business development team to support business expansion.&nbsp; &nbsp; The Company plans to: Enhance the retrofit business by integrating Eight Knot AI CAPTAIN into existing small vessels, tailoring product functions for various domestic and international markets, and expanding its sales framework. Utilize the expertise gained through retrofitting to provide software solutions to marine engine manufacturers, shipyards, and boat builders both in Japan and abroad, accelerating the practical implementation of autonomous navigation technology. &nbsp; The following efforts will also be prioritized:<ul><li>Strengthening the engineering team with expertise in robotics and AI.</li><li>Recruiting personnel to boost sales activities in the domestic market.</li><li>Establishing a team to develop partnerships for overseas market expansion.</li><li>Expanding corporate teams, including HR and inventory management.</li><li>Recruiting staff to plan and execute public relations strategies and enhance PR activities.</li></ul> Recruitment information: <a href="https://www.wantedly.com/companies/eightknot" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Click here</a>

Eight Knot Inc. Secures 570 Million Yen in Pre-Series A Funding to Accelerate Development of Autonomous Navigation Technology

Eight Knot Inc. (Headquarters: Sakai City, Osaka Prefecture; CEO: Yujin Kimura; hereinafter referred to as "our company") is pleased to announce that on January 31, 2024, it secured funding from the Kansai Innovation Network No. 2 Investment Limited Partnership (commonly known as Innovation Fund 25Next), which is operated by Senshu Ikeda Capital Co., Ltd. and funded by The Senshu Ikeda Bank, Ltd., among others. With this funding, the total amount raised in our Pre-Series A round has reached 160 million yen. <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/5332c340772547a7ab677c4b06102474/71d1cec603bc450ca5007a9b3b792770/logo%E7%84%A1%E2%80%9720240517%20Pre-Series%20A%201st%20SENSHU%20IKEDA%20CAPITAL%20JP.png" alt="" width="1920" height="1280"> Innovation Fund 25Next aims to contribute to industrial promotion by creating new businesses in the local community, thereby promoting the development of the regional economy and securing employment in Osaka and the Kansai area. The fund targets companies with technologies and business models that are expected to contribute to the goals of the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo, such as achieving a society that meets the SDGs and realizing Society 5.0. As a group of experts in robotics and AI, our company promotes "DX of the sea" and "robotization of ships." By implementing our autonomous navigation platform for small vessels, "AI CAPTAIN," we can support crew members, enhance safety, and optimize operational costs. Through support for our company, we can contribute to the realization of SDG 11: "Sustainable Cities and Communities," which has led to the current support from the Senshu Ikeda Bank Group through Innovation Fund 25Next. Fund Overview <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/5332c340772547a7ab677c4b06102474/0ed3a0eff38a41659af4f045d317be45/%E3%82%B9%E3%82%AF%E3%83%AA%E3%83%BC%E3%83%B3%E3%82%B7%E3%83%A7%E3%83%83%E3%83%88%202024-07-19%20164134.png" alt="" width="686" height="752">

Automated Ship Navigation Technology Development Startup Eight Knot Inc. Secures Funding from Innovation Fund 25Next Operated by Senshu Ikeda Capital Co., Ltd.

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Autonomous maritime technology startup Eight Knot Inc. to exhibit at Offshore & Port Tech 2024 in Sea Japan

Eight Knot Inc. (Headquarters: Sakai City, Osaka Prefecture, CEO: Yujin Kimura, henceforth "Our Company") has successfully implemented the "Eight Knot AI CAPTAIN" autonomous navigation platform (hereafter "AI CAPTAIN") in a sea taxi specifically designed for cyclists, managed by WAKKA Inc. (Headquarters: Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture, CEO: Arashi Murakami, henceforth "WAKKA"). WAKKA operates the integrated tourism facility on Omishima Island along the Shimanami Kaido. This occasion marks the second deployment of our technology aboard non-company vessels, notably being the inaugural instance for a tourism-dedicated ship. By offering select functionalities permissible within the bounds of existing legislation as "automatic piloting assist features," we aim to address the challenges maritime business operators face and foster new business opportunities.<img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/5332c340772547a7ab677c4b06102474/aee3d6536a5c4102bd403dc9858f12aa/20240305%20WAKKA%E8%89%87%E5%AE%9F%E8%A3%85%20EN_ver3.png?w=1920&amp;h=1280" alt="" width="1920" height="1280">■Background to the IntroductionDuring the fiscal year 2022, Eight Knot Inc. was selected to participate in the Ehime Prefecture's Digital Implementation Acceleration Project, "Triangle Ehime." Within this framework, we initiated a project where we leased our autonomous, small, electric (EV) boats to WAKKA for their use as sea taxis. The autonomous navigation systems of these boats operated flawlessly. Yet, we encountered specific challenges, such as the EV boats' limited power output not being sufficient to handle the strong currents around Omishima and the restricted battery capacity leading to a constrained range of navigable routes. This project received positive feedback, and consequently, we were selected again for the initiative in the fiscal year 2023. This led to the implementation of our autonomous navigation system in a sea taxi, specifically designed for cyclists and powered by an engine, owned by WAKKA. This technology allows the boat to navigate safely even in low-light conditions, facilitating the introduction of a new service offering: the Sunset Cruise, alongside the standard sea taxi services. Additionally, we hosted a showcase and trial ride event for this vessel on February 27th (Tuesday) and 28th (Wednesday), 2024, in Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture. ■Comments from Arashi Murakami, CEO of WAKKA Inc.: <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/5332c340772547a7ab677c4b06102474/472917f341d0413da996e17dcf4a3335/WAKKA%20PRTIMES1.jpg?w=600&amp;h=400" alt="WAKKA Inc. CEO Arashi Murakami" width="600" height="400">WAKKA Inc. CEO Arashi Murakami<img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/5332c340772547a7ab677c4b06102474/c7397e999b7040fc957c41ce6d3f3d03/WAKKA%20PRTIMES2.jpg?w=600&amp;h=400" alt=" Operating the autonomous navigation system using a monitor" width="600" height="400">Operating the autonomous navigation system using a monitor-The current challenges include the reduction or discontinuation of ferry services to isolated islands, primarily due to labor shortages and the scarcity of successors. Autonomous navigation technology offers a solution to mitigate these issues, at least in part.-With autonomous navigation technology, a ship can autonomously maintain its course and direction, thereby expanding the capabilities of a single captain. For instance, the technology enables the ship to autonomously navigate, allowing the captain to undertake additional tasks such as serving drinks or anchoring at precise locations for fishing activities. ■Scenes from the unveiling ceremony and ride experience eventHeld on February 27 (Tuesday) and 28 (Wednesday), 2024, at the facilities of WAKKA Inc. in Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture, it was attended by media personnel, maritime operators, local government officials, and others from within Ehime Prefecture and beyond.<img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/5332c340772547a7ab677c4b06102474/82b26a8e4c914693a561d99896d0ee9b/WAKKA%20PRTIMES3.jpg?w=600&amp;h=400" alt="" width="600" height="400">Scenes from the ride experience event<img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/5332c340772547a7ab677c4b06102474/da8db33539ad45e59f5d8be83bdf0f48/WAKKA%20PRTIMES4.jpg?w=600&amp;h=400" alt="" width="600" height="400">Presentation at the venue◯Participant Comments:-The experience was nearly indistinguishable from being piloted by a human, with minimal discomfort.-The mere presence of autonomous navigation technology in a ship is intriguing.-Autonomous navigation in ships, once thought to be a concept for the far future, now seems within reach.-The visual display of obstacles detected by sensors onscreen enhances safety by providing a reassuring layer of security.-The advancement of technology to this point is astonishing. I eagerly anticipate its continued growth within the maritime sector.-The implementation of this technology on an engine-powered boat opens up the possibility of adopting it for our fleet. ■About Eight Knot Inc. Eight Knot, a consortium of experts in robotics and AI, specializes in the development of autonomous navigation technology for small vessels. Our mission is to drive digital transformation and automation in the maritime sector, providing innovative solutions to address pressing societal issues. Our goal is to enhance accessibility in water transportation by leveraging autonomous navigation technology. This enables us to provide crew support, improve vessel safety, and optimize operating costs. Our vision is to pave the way for a new era of maritime operations, where automation and safety are not mutually exclusive, but collaboratively lead to improved efficiency and sustainability. Company InformationCompany Name: Eight Knot Inc.Established: March 8, 2021Officers: Representative Director CEO Yujin Kimura, Director CTO Tomoaki Yokoyama, External Director Kazutaka YomogitaHead Office : Room 313, S-Cube Main Building, 130-42 Nagasone-cho, Kita Ward, Sakai City, Osaka Prefecture 591-8025Tokyo Office : Center of Garage, 1-16-3, Yokokawa, Sumida-ku, Tokyo 130-0003Hiroshima Office : Room 405, HIOS HIROSHIMA, 7-1 Hatchōbori, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0013Business Content: Development of autonomous navigation technology for small vessels, development of on-demand water transportation systems.Website: https://8kt.jp/enTwitter: @8ktjpFacebook：https://www.facebook.com/8ktjpLinkedIn：https://www.linkedin.com/company/8kt/

Autonomous Maritime Tech Startup Eight Knot Inc. First Installs "AI CAPTAIN" Autonomous Navigation Platform on a Tourist Boat in the Seto Inland Sea

Eight Knot Inc.&nbsp;is announcing that our CEO, Yujin Kimura has been selected for the France course of “J-StarX,” overseas dispatch program in France from 2023/10/19～11/10. We have been evaluated based on the domestic program and examination, to have high potential for future growth overseas. <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/5332c340772547a7ab677c4b06102474/db4ce25bddc64d71afda1e423835cf71/20230921%20J-StarX.png" alt="" width="1920" height="1280"> ■Dispatch details&nbsp;Course：France CourseDispatch Period：2023/10/29～11/10Dispatch Destination：France at STATION FCourse Overview：【France Course】This course is mainly for pre-seed and seed-stage startups, to cultivate networks and knowledge for expansion and further growth in France/Europe at STATION F, the incubation facility located in France. The country has seen a rapid increase from one unicorn company in 2016 to 25 by 2022. A key driver of this growth is STATION F, an incubation facility that was converted from a railroad warehouse, that houses 1,000 startups and provides access to the assets and VCs of HEC, one of the country's leading graduate schools of management. During the program, participants will be housed here to take advantage of the facility's assets while attending lectures at HEC to gain clues on how to grow their businesses. We will actively build partnerships to expand our business in the French market in the future. Boating culture is deeply rooted in France, especially in the south, and we expect that the introduction of the system in this region will create new value for many businesses through the use of technology. In addition, river transportation is already actively used in Paris and there is an emerging market. This will allow us to explore new possibilities for transportation in urban areas. ■About “J-StarX” J-StarX is an entrepreneurship development and overseas dispatch program sponsored by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. J-StarX provides aspiring entrepreneurs with opportunities to connect with and learn from the world’s top players and encourages them to take on new challenges in order to produce entrepreneurs who will be active on the global stage. Through this program, we aim to create a future where stars are born in Japan, by creating an ecosystem where anyone can take on challenges. Web &amp; SNS&nbsp;Official website: https://j-starx.jp/&nbsp;Twitter: https://twitter.com/JStarX_&nbsp;Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/J-StarX-102953242823800&nbsp;Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_jstarx_/&nbsp;LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/j-starx/&nbsp; Structure&nbsp;Host organization: Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry of Japan&nbsp;Management organization: Deloitte Tohmatsu Venture Support Co, Ltd.&nbsp; ■About Eight Knot Inc. Eight Knot, a consortium of experts in robotics and AI, specializes in the development of autonomous navigation technology for small vessels. Our mission is to drive digital transformation and automation in the maritime sector, providing innovative solutions to address pressing societal issues. Our goal is to enhance accessibility in water transportation by leveraging autonomous navigation technology. This enables us to provide crew support, improve vessel safety, and optimize operating costs. Our vision is to pave the way for a new era of maritime operations, where automation and safety are not mutually exclusive, but collaboratively lead to improved efficiency and sustainability. Company InformationCompany Name: Eight Knot Inc.Established: March 8, 2021Officers: Representative Director CEO Yujin Kimura, Director CTO Tomoaki Yokoyama, External Director Kazutaka YomogitaHead Office : Room 313, S-Cube Main Building, 130-42 Nagasone-cho, Kita Ward, Sakai City, Osaka Prefecture 591-8025Tokyo Office : Center of Garage, 1-16-3, Yokokawa, Sumida-ku, Tokyo 130-0003Hiroshima Office : Room 405, HIOS HIROSHIMA, 7-1 Hatchōbori, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0013Business Content: Development of autonomous navigation technology for small vessels, development of on-demand water transportation systems.Website: https://8kt.jp/enTwitter: @8ktjpFacebook：https://www.facebook.com/8ktjpLinkedIn：https://www.linkedin.com/company/8kt/ ■Inquiries regarding this projectJ-StarX management team email: J-StarX@tohmatsu.co.jp ■Inquiries on this matterEight Knot Inc.Email：info@8kt.jp

Announcing the selection of our CEO, Yujin Kimura for the entrepreneurship development and overseas dispatch program “J-StarX” France course.

Eight Knot Inc. (Location: Sakai City, Osaka Prefecture, CEO: Yujin Kimura, henceforth: Our Company) is thrilled to announce the successful completion of our Pre-Series A First Close in July 2023, raising a total of 110 million yen. The investors for this round include Seika Daiya Engine, DRONE FUND, and Real Tech Fund. With this latest funding, our cumulative fundraising amount has reached 290 million yen.<img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/5332c340772547a7ab677c4b06102474/341aad5a477c4b06b99aa524ffac9303/20230808%20Pre-Series%20A%201st%20EN.png" alt="" width="1920" height="1280"> ■Purpose and Usage of the Funds:We intend to channel the funds predominantly to enhance our autonomous maritime platform, "Eight Knot AI CAPTAIN". Our focus is on fortifying our development team, particularly in the fields of robotics and AI. In line with our expansion strategy, we're planning on establishing new regional offices to solidify our domestic market presence. Additionally, as part of our global outreach, we are formulating teams for overseas market analysis and cultivating local partnerships. Our overarching ambition is to debut our international operations in 2024 and position ourselves as a leading contender in the global arena through rapid business expansion.・Augmenting our engineering team with expertise in robotics and AI.・Launching regional offices to bolster domestic sales initiatives.・Assembling specialized teams for global market insight and local partnership cultivation. ■Transition from PoC Phase to Business Expansion Phase:Since our inception in March 2021, we hit a significant landmark in October of that year by effectively showcasing the transportation of goods with a prototype ship featuring autonomous navigation. By October 2022, we unveiled the "Eight Knot AI CAPTAIN" platform tailored for smaller vessels, introducing ship assistance functionalities. Come January 2023, passenger ship operators began deploying vessels equipped with AI CAPTAIN for autonomous EV navigation, pioneering the water taxi operations. This initiative became Japan's first commercial venture using autonomous ships. By July 2023, we forged a strategic capital and business alliance with Seika Daiya Engine, experts in marine engines and associated gear. This collaboration is propelling the introduction of avant-garde solutions based on autonomous navigation in the Japanese market, ushering us into a phase of business expansion. ■Comments from New Investors:<img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/5332c340772547a7ab677c4b06102474/3f4a4d6be8544c028ec1046ce2f40700/SDE%20CEO.jpg?w=300&amp;h=399" alt="" width="300" height="399">Mr. Toru Shibasaki, CEO of Seika Daiya Engine Co., Ltd:Eight Knot is at the forefront of revolutionizing autonomous navigation for smaller vessels. Even though Seika Daiya Engine recently discovered Eight Knot's ambitious vision for self-navigating maritime solutions, we're already certain of its transformative potential. This pioneering technology promises enhanced safety, especially for our core clientele like fishermen and operators of smaller passenger ships. As we foresee challenges from a dwindling workforce, attributed to an aging population and declining birth rates, our unwavering support for Eight Knot is both financial and strategic. We're excited about our ongoing partnership with Eight Knot, together shaping an innovative maritime future. Related Articles:Capital and business alliance concluded with Seika Daiya Engine Co., Ltd., a seller of marine diesel engines and navigation assistance equipment.<a style="color:#1155cc" href="https://8kt.jp/en/news/ppgo01ou5cd" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://8kt.jp/en/news/ppgo01ou5cd</a> Related Videos:Introduction video of Eight Knot AI CAPTAIN<iframe class="embedly-embed" src="https://cdn.embedly.com/widgets/media.html?src=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fembed%2Fb42DSEfclc8%3Ffeature%3Doembed&display_name=YouTube&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3Db42DSEfclc8&image=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2Fb42DSEfclc8%2Fhqdefault.jpg&key=94335756f04b424b8ce3ce71cbe3de0a&type=text%2Fhtml&schema=youtube" width="560" height="315" scrolling="no" title="YouTube embed" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; fullscreen; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture;" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe> ■Selected Adoptions and Awards (Excerpt):FY 2023:Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism: Smart Island Promotion SurveyCabinet Office: Demonstration project using MichibikiHiroshima Prefecture: "Pioneering" project demonstration&nbsp;Ehime Prefecture: Ehime Prefecture Digital Implementation Acceleration Project ImplementationToyo Keizai: Amazing Venture 100 2022 SelectionICC Summit FUKUOKA 2023: "Honda Xcelerator Catapult" Winner FY 2022:Hiroshima Prefecture: Hiroshima Sandbox D-EGGS PROJECT (Hiroshima Governor Award) ■Details of Investors:<img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/5332c340772547a7ab677c4b06102474/a9bb406e06d34e13bb84524ef40cf65c/SDE%20logo.jpg?w=300&amp;h=134" alt="" width="300" height="134">Company Name: Seika Daiya Engine Co., Ltd.CEO: Toru ShibasakiLocation: 1-1-19 Kita Shinjuku, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Daiya Fugen Building 8th FloorWebsite: <a style="color:#358cda" href="https://www.daiyaeng.co.jp/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.daiyaeng.co.jp/</a><img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/5332c340772547a7ab677c4b06102474/2ee33758277449e48a3b6a2642258565/dronefund%20ligo.jpg?w=300&amp;h=306" alt="" width="300" height="306">Managing company: DRONE FUND Inc.Official Name: DRONE FUND III Investment LimitedPartnershipRepresentatives: Kotaro Chiba, Soki OmaeLocation: 3-3-6 Ebisu, Shibuya, TokyoWebsite:<a style="color:#1155cc" href="https://dronefund.vc/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://dronefund.vc/en/</a><img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/5332c340772547a7ab677c4b06102474/68ece10ef1d3400cb68eb049f5c3837d/realtechfund%20ligo.jpg?w=300&amp;h=282" alt="" width="300" height="282">Company Name: Real Tech Holdings Co.,Ltd.Fund Name: Real Tech Fund 3 Investment Limited PartnershipRepresentative: Akihiko NagataLocation: 1-16-3 Yokokawa, Sumida, Tokyo, Center of Garage Room02Website: <a style="color:#1155cc" href="https://www.realtech.holdings/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.realtech.holdings/en/</a> ■Company InformationCompany Name: Eight Knot Inc.Established: March 8, 2021Officers: Representative Director CEO Yujin Kimura, Director CTO Tomoaki Yokoyama, External Director Kazutaka YomogitaHead Office : Room 313, S-Cube Main Building, 130-42 Nagasone-cho, Kita Ward, Sakai City, Osaka Prefecture 591-8025 Tokyo Office : Center of Garage, 1-16-3, Yokokawa, Sumida-ku, Tokyo 130-0003Business Content: Development of autonomous navigation technology for small vessels, development of on-demand water transportation systems.Website: https://8kt.jpTwitter: @8ktjp

Eight Knot Inc. Raises 110 Million Yen for Pioneering Autonomous Maritime Tech in Pre-Series A Round

Eight Knot Inc. (Location: Sakai City, Osaka Prefecture, CEO: Yujin Kimura, henceforth: Our Company) is pleased to announce the signing of a capital and business alliance contract (henceforth, this alliance) with Seika Daiya Engine Co., Ltd. (Location: Shinjuku, Tokyo, CEO: Toru Shibasaki, henceforth: Seika Daiya Engine), aiming to solve various challenges in maritime and fisheries sectors and enhance sustainability through autonomous navigation technology. Seika Daiya Engine, possessing a sales and service network across 25 national locations and catering to fishing boats, industrial vessels, passenger ships, etc., will cooperate to offer next-generation solutions focused on our autonomous navigation platform "Eight Knot AI CAPTAIN". <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/5332c340772547a7ab677c4b06102474/41280413fb1c43f5ae765066ccc01936/8ktsdelogo.jpg" alt="" width="1920" height="1280">■Background of this alliance:Seika Daiya Engine, which upholds the company slogan "Go for the sea", and our company, aiming to create safer and more comfortable water mobility through robotics and AI, share the same goals. This alliance is agreed upon to provide advanced navigation assistance equipment to the many people working in Japan's seas to solve various problems. Collaborating with Seika Daiya Engine, including capital relationships, we will address safety issues that maritime and fisheries businesses face and work towards resolving the expected future shortage of ship crew. ■Synergy:Our company has comprehensively developed the autonomous navigation platform for small vessels "Eight Knot AI CAPTAIN" and related products, aiming for the automation of water mobility and future unmanned navigation. Seika Daiya Engine operates as the domestic general agent mainly for Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Engine &amp; Turbocharger marine engines, possessing a sales and service network in 25 locations nationwide. In this alliance, we will combine our unique small vessel autonomous navigation technology with the Seika Daiya Engine's strength in selling and servicing marine products to expedite business development in Japan. Related URL: <a href="https://8kt.jp/en/solution" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://8kt.jp/en/solution</a> ■About Seika Daiya Engine: <a href="https://www.daiyaeng.co.jp/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.daiyaeng.co.jp/</a>Seika Daiya Engine conducts business as the domestic general agent mainly for Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Engine &amp; Turbocharger marine engines, possessing a sales and service network in 25 locations nationwide. The company, with its customer base primarily composed of business vessels such as fishing boats, commercial boats, and passenger ships, conducts sales of high-quality and reliable marine diesel engines and navigation assistance equipment. ■About Eight Knot:Eight Knot, a consortium of experts in robotics and AI, specializes in the development of autonomous navigation technology for small vessels. Our mission is to drive digital transformation and automation in the maritime sector, providing innovative solutions to address pressing societal issues. Our goal is to enhance accessibility in water transportation by leveraging autonomous navigation technology. This enables us to provide crew support, improve vessel safety, and optimize operating costs. Our vision is to pave the way for a new era of maritime operations, where automation and safety are not mutually exclusive, but collaboratively lead to improved efficiency and sustainability. ■Company InformationCompany Name: Eight Knot Inc.Established: March 8, 2021Officers: Representative Director CEO Yujin Kimura, Director CTO Tomoaki Yokoyama, External Director Kazutaka YomogitaHead Office : Room 313, S-Cube Main Building, 130-42 Nagasone-cho, Kita Ward, Sakai City, Osaka Prefecture 591-8025Tokyo Office : Center of Garage, 1-16-3, Yokokawa, Sumida-ku, Tokyo 130-0003Business Content: Development of autonomous navigation technology for small vessels, development of on-demand water transportation systems.Website: https://8kt.jpTwitter: @8ktjp

Eight Knot Inc., Autonomous Maritime Tech Startup, Forms Strategic Alliance with Marine Engine Supplier Seika Daiya Engine

OSAKA, Japan – Eight Knot Inc. (Headquarters: Sakai City, Osaka Prefecture; Representative Director: Yujin Kimura) is pleased to announce that it has successfully raised funds through equity financing via the J-KISS stock option system with Hiroshima Venture Capital as the underwriter, as well as through debt financing from Senshu Ikeda Bank.<img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/5332c340772547a7ab677c4b06102474/c8820af5c1c349b6ab6131b3bbe21f09/HVC%E6%B1%A0%E7%94%B0%E6%B3%89%E5%B7%9E%E9%8A%80%E8%A1%8C%E2%80%97logo.webp" alt="" width="590" height="240">■Purpose of the Fundraising<img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/5332c340772547a7ab677c4b06102474/69f432e01acf42368ca149d7125b9e75/eightknot1.jpg?w=600&amp;h=450" alt="" width="600" height="450">Seto Inland Sea and the Autonomous Electric Vessel Eight Knot One We have secured loans from banks in the Osaka region, where our headquarters is located, and accepted investments from venture capital in Hiroshima Prefecture, which is the hub of our operations. This support empowers the business activities of the Eight Knot team and enables us to enhance our presence in the local community, building a solid infrastructure for comprehensive support of our sales activities. Our long-term goal is to connect the Seto Inland Sea with Osaka, known as the “City of Water”, through waterborne transportation, as we aim to establish an extensive maritime transportation network in the Western Japan area. Since the announcement of our autonomous navigation platform for small vessels, "Eight Knot AI CAPTAIN" in October 2022, we have been actively operating in the Seto and Osaka areas. As a startup, we believe that the most effective way to quickly build a relationship of trust with local businesses is by collaborating with financial institutions that have an in-depth understanding of the local community, which led to this fundraising. As we forge ahead, we will tackle our business ventures with unwavering dedication and agility, striving to bring to fruition projects that garner the backing of the local community. ■Primary Use of Funds・Strengthening the sales structure in the Seto and Osaka areas・Promoting and executing public relations strategies to accelerate social implementation・Strengthening collaboration with regional businesses ■About Eight Knot Inc.<img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/5332c340772547a7ab677c4b06102474/339509977a044abbbae88ae3d3c5f74c/d77033-1-753106-4.png?w=300&amp;h=200" alt="" width="300" height="200">Eight Knot is a group of robotics and AI experts focused on the development of autonomous navigation technology for small vessels, promoting the “Digital Transformation of the Seas” and the “Robotization of Vessels” to address societal challenges. Through the social implementation of autonomous navigation technology, we aim to support ship crew members, improve vessel safety, optimize operational costs, and make waterborne transport more accessible. ■Selected Achievements (Excerpts)Fiscal Year 2022・Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism: Smart Island Promotion Research Project・Cabinet Office: Demonstration Project Utilizing “Michibiki”・Hiroshima Prefecture: "Pioneer" Project Experimental Implementation Services・Ehime Prefecture: Ehime Prefecture Digital Implementation Acceleration Project Implementation Services・Toyo Keizai: Selected in “Amazing Venture 100 2022”Fiscal Year 2021・Hiroshima Prefecture: Hiroshima Sandbox D-EGGS PROJECT (Winner of Hiroshima Prefecture Governor’s Award) ■Company InformationCompany Name: Eight Knot Inc.Established: March 8, 2021Officers: Representative Director CEO Yujin Kimura, Director CTO Tomoaki Yokoyama, External Director Kazutaka YomogitaHead Office : 10 Kitahatocho Sakai-ku, Sakai-shi, Osaka-fu, 590-0986, JapanTokyo Office : Center of Garage, 1-16-3, Yokokawa, Sumida-ku, Tokyo 130-0003Business Content: Development of autonomous navigation technology for small vessels, development of on-demand water transportation systems.Website: https://8kt.jpTwitter: @8ktjp ■InquiriesEight Knots Corporation, Public Relations RepresentativeEmail: info@8kt.jp

Eight Knot Inc., a Startup Developing Autonomous Maritime Technology, Secures Funding from Regional Financial Institutions to Strengthen Community-Based Activities

OSAKA, JAPAN – Eight Knot Inc., based in Sakai City, Osaka, and led by its CEO Yujin Kimura, has unveiled the "Eight Knot AI CAPTAIN," an autonomous navigation platform targeting vessels under 20 tons. The company recently showcased the technology on its autonomous electric vessel, the "Eight Knot I", during a trial cruise on October 28th in Ujina, Hiroshima. As the industry aims for unmanned ships by 2025, Eight Knot has begun offering select features currently permissible under the law as "Automatic Navigation Assistance," focusing on addressing critical challenges such as safety concerns and manpower shortages in the maritime sector. Carving Out Sea Paths with Autonomous Water Mobility:Eight Knot's mission is to "pave the oceans with autonomous water mobility." The firm strives to make traveling on water as easy as on land, deepening human-marine interactions and spurring a new maritime-centered economy. By leveraging Japan's identity as a maritime nation, Eight Knot is committed to making the sea more accessible to all. Challenges Confronting the Maritime Industry:Eight Knot, a collective of robotics and AI experts, concentrates on advancing maritime digital transformation and robotic integration for small vessels, aiming to resolve pressing societal problems:・Safety: Delays in technological adoption have led to accidents due to human errors. In fact, 72% of maritime accidents stem from human factors.・Manpower Shortage: The workforce has decreased by 50% over the past 30 years, with over 46% currently aged 50 or older. This poses a grave threat to Japan's maritime and fisheries industries.・Maintaining Remote Island Routes: Of the 418 inhabited remote islands, many face disrupted or ceased routes due to low profitability and lack of manpower. This threatens essential life infrastructures, making route sustenance a matter of life and death. Through the implementation of autonomous navigation technologies, Eight Knot aims to support crew members, enhance safety, optimize costs, and make water transportation more accessible. Features of the Eight Knot AI CAPTAIN:<img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/5332c340772547a7ab677c4b06102474/bbb88eef90b54d46b3bca91b6a0dab50/ai_captain_logo_horizontal_with_8kt_cc.png?w=400&amp;h=82" alt="" width="400" height="82">Simple navigation to a destination with a tap on a tablet screen.<img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/5332c340772547a7ab677c4b06102474/570f2838246548a68b8810cd2dfd0751/77033-12-84a2c504c366d5eff0cd8c4ed48f1a2d-1680x1050.webp?w=399&amp;h=249" alt="" width="399" height="249">・Automated route settings based on destination.・Obstacle and vessel avoidance.・Station-keeping capabilities.・Automatic berthing and unberthing. Future capabilities for "Land-Based Captains" with remote surveillance features.・360-degree monitoring using four cameras.・Remote start/stop commands for navigation.・Future plans to monitor multiple vessels from a single PC or tablet. Contribution to eco-friendly mobility with vessel electrification.・Offer passengers an enhanced, quieter onboard experience. Robot AI cruiser equipped with the 'Eight Knot AI CAPTAIN', named 'Eight Knot I':<img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/5332c340772547a7ab677c4b06102474/69f432e01acf42368ca149d7125b9e75/eightknot1.jpg?w=300&amp;h=225" alt="" width="300" height="225"> <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/5332c340772547a7ab677c4b06102474/7e5702a496754e849c4cda06a87f30a8/image.png?w=299&amp;h=234" alt="" width="299" height="234"> Situation of the on-board experience event:On October 28th (Friday), it was held at the Hiroshima Port Welfare Center (and the Hiroshima City-operated pier) in Hiroshima City, Hiroshima Prefecture. We welcomed about 60 attendees, including passenger ship operators, national and local government officials, and others. <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/5332c340772547a7ab677c4b06102474/43246341cc8f48d0b09359b2c91d9752/77033-12-9dc35140b1672655d16a9dff1f932dfa-1151x768.webp?w=300&amp;h=200" alt="" width="300" height="200">　<img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/5332c340772547a7ab677c4b06102474/4e6176a7204547f5b1d4cf7779930360/77033-12-aa755de10d0e874735dfde8dfecca60c-1045x664.webp?w=320&amp;h=203" alt="" width="320" height="203">Feedback from Onboard Monitors:<ul><li style="text-align:justify">"The sailing was smooth and comfortable. The berthing felt even better than human-operated vessels."</li><li style="text-align:justify">"The onboard monitor provided clear information on the ship's position and surroundings, making it reassuring for passengers."</li><li style="text-align:justify">"The ease of setting a destination and allowing the ship to navigate autonomously was highly appealing."</li></ul> About Eight Knot Inc.:<img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/5332c340772547a7ab677c4b06102474/339509977a044abbbae88ae3d3c5f74c/d77033-1-753106-4.png?w=350&amp;h=233" alt="" width="350" height="233">Eight Knot, a coalition of robotics and AI professionals, focuses on autonomous navigation technology development for small vessels. The company aims to support crew members, enhance vessel safety, reduce operational costs, and make maritime transportation more relatable. Overview of Eight Knot:Company Name: Eight Knot Inc.Established: March 8, 2021Executives: CEO and Representative Director Yujin Kimura, CTO Tomoaki YokoyamaHeadquarters: 10 Kitahatocho Sakai-ku, Sakai-shi, Osaka-fu, 590-0986, JapanTokyo Office: Center of Garage, 1-16-3 Yokokawa, Sumida-ku, Tokyo 130-0003Business Description: Development of autonomous navigation technology for small vessels, development of on-demand water transportation systemsWebsite: https://8kt.jp/enTwitter: @8ktjp