- ARK Series A fund raise will go towards overseas expansion
- Company targets the UAE and Indonesia.
- Funds will support technology, facilities and hiring.
The Kanagawa-based company develops modular recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) that enable fish farming in controlled, closed-loop environments.
The company has focused on commercialising land-based seafood production as concerns grow over pressure on marine ecosystems and global food security.
“Our modular land-based aquaculture system aims to create a system where diverse fish species can be farmed anywhere by anyone, truly representing an effort to democratise the fisheries industry,” said CEO Yosuke Kurihara.
“We are delighted, and greatly encouraged, to have successfully closed this funding round with the support of strong partners who share our vision and business strategy.”
With the fresh funding, the company is aiming to expand overseas, focusing on the UAE and Indonesia.
“By utilising the funds raised and working closely with our partners, we will serve as an ark carrying Japan’s aquaculture technologies to the world. Together, we will advance towards our vision of ‘creating an eighth sea on Earth’ and set sail towards a brighter future for both humanity and the oceans,” said Kurihara.
Earlier this year, the company was selected by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry to demonstrate its land-based aquaculture technology in the UAE and Indonesia. The project is scheduled to run from November 2026 to April 2028.
“We will conduct technical verification of stable farmed-fish production in order to realise sustainable fisheries production in the UAE and Indonesia,” the company said at the time.
The company sees a major opportunity in the UAE, particularly in Abu Dhabi.
“Positioned at a key hub along the new IMEEC trade corridor, we will leverage our RAS technology and grouper aquaculture expertise, both proven in harsh environmental conditions, to help build a sustainable seafood supply hub and contribute to food security in the local markets,” said Kurihara.
The company aims to establish a presence in both the UAE and Indonesia, beginning with investments and demonstration projects designed to validate its approach under local conditions.
In early September, the company established ARK Malaysia to serve as a base in Southeast Asia.
“We are positioning our Malaysian base as a hub for business, research and development, and partnership-building in the APAC region, and will accelerate the implementation of land-based aquaculture across Southeast Asia and the rest of the Global South,” it said.
Additionally, the company plans to use the capital to strengthen its business foundations, invest in new aquaculture technologies and products, develop land-based aquaculture facilities and recruit global talent to support its overseas growth.
The funding round included investments from UntroD Capital Japan, Beyond Next Ventures and BP Capital, Shizuoka Gas, Kobashi Holdings, Ignisia, Hasegawa Tora Group, STATION AI, DEEPCORE Co and the W Corporation.
ARK also secured loans from Resona Bank, Hokkoku Bank and Japan Finance Corporation.
In addition to the funding, the company will leverage support from the Japanese government.
“Land-based aquaculture has also been identified as a priority sector under the government’s growth investment strategy, providing strong policy support for the industry’s development,” said Kurihara.
