Zero Industries Raises US$3 Million in the Largest Pre-Seed Round in Japanese History*
Zero Industries, PBC (based in San Francisco, California), led by CEO Kai Sugihara (16), CTO Yusei Fujii (19), and COO Koya Tani (20), has completed a US$3 million pre-seed funding round just six months after its establishment. The round was led by Maezawa Fund, with participation from UntroD Capital Japan, NOW, Midtown, and individual investors. According to the company’s research into major pre-seed funding rounds publicly announced by startups in Japan, this is the largest amount raised among the cases reviewed.*
Realizing a Type II Civilization on the Kardashev Scale
Expand the energy available to humanity and democratize access to it. Enable everyone to exercise their right to shape the physical world and forge their own future. Usher in a new civilization built on unprecedented abundance.
Zero Industries was founded to expand what is possible for humanity. A Type II civilization on the Kardashev scale is one milestone along that journey. As superintelligence (SI) transforms the foundations of civilization, Zero will define and build the industries needed for a new world.
The name Zero represents a new way of redefining industries from first principles: the starting point for a new world. A thousand years from now, Zero aims to be remembered as the place where this new, utopian world began.
Zero’s purpose is to turn the potential of SI into material abundance and the freedom to create. Through technology and capital, it will build the physical foundations that enable people to shape their own futures and pass that power on to the next generation.
Every business Zero pursues, now and in the future, is a means of advancing civilization. The first step is to build power infrastructure in space.
Helios
Our first business is Helios, a power transmission service for satellites.
Helios will deliver electricity generated in space to satellites in orbit via laser. It comprises three components: Helios Beam, a power-transmitting satellite; Helios Cell, a power-receiving module installed on customers’ satellites; and Helios Grid, an operations system that manages power transmission.
Satellites today rely primarily on onboard solar panels for power. Generation stops while a satellite is in Earth’s shadow, and changes in its orientation during activities such as observation also affect its exposure to sunlight. Larger power generation equipment and batteries increase spacecraft mass, limiting the equipment that can be carried and the flexibility of operations.
Zero will ease these constraints by supplying power externally. Customers will be able to reduce the mass allocated to power generation equipment and batteries and instead allocate it to observation instruments, computers, and propulsion systems.
Helios Beam will generate electricity from sunlight in orbit, convert it into laser light, and transmit it. Its design requirements include transmitting power to satellites hundreds of kilometers away and supplying multiple satellites simultaneously from a single spacecraft. Helios Cell will convert the received laser light into electricity and will be configured to accommodate changes in a customer satellite’s orientation during operations.
Helios Grid will allocate power transmission based on the satellites’ relative positions, power generation, and customer demand. It will measure the electrical energy delivered and reduce or stop transmission when it detects an anomaly. Zero is developing the transmission equipment and operations system together as an integrated system.
Initial recipients of power will include Earth observation satellites, orbital transfer vehicles, and servicing spacecraft that inspect and repair satellites. Service will subsequently expand to space data centers, factories in orbit, and bases on the Moon.
The commercial viability of the transmission service will be evaluated based on the power customers can actually use. Zero will verify performance, including transmission and reception losses, equipment mass, and operating costs, to establish the service’s economic value relative to customers’ onboard power generation.
Providing the Core Power Supply for Space Data Centers
Zero will build an essential power supply infrastructure for operators of space data centers.
Connecting computing facilities and power generation facilities through a power grid will allow each to be designed for its purpose and expanded independently. Operators adding computing capacity will receive additional power, while improvements in generation performance will benefit multiple users through the grid.
Zero will build power generation facilities, secure supply capacity, and manage transmission so that space data centers can focus on their computing infrastructure. It will channel the power demand driven by the growth of SI into investment in new power plants in space.
Zero will create the conditions for computing facilities, factories, and transport networks in space to be designed around its power grid. Through its supply capacity and reliable operations, Zero will become a core company underpinning the space industry.
Building Civilization’s Production Capacity from Energy
Zero will connect energy supply to capabilities in computing, manufacturing, transportation, and construction.
It will translate designs generated by SI into robotic actions, integrating material processing, equipment assembly, and building construction into a continuous production process. Zero will build a production system capable of constructing cities of skyscrapers anywhere in the world in one month, supplying cities in response to demand for housing and industry.
This capability will provide a foundation for reconstruction after disasters, the development of new industrial hubs, and responses to population movements. Zero will develop these technologies and production capabilities as established industries during normal times, enabling humanity to choose its next path when the world faces a crisis.
In space, Zero will use resources from the Moon and asteroids to refine materials, manufacture components, and assemble structures. Electricity from power generation facilities will run factories, which will in turn produce additional power generation and manufacturing equipment.
By linking the expansion of power generation capacity with the expansion of production capacity, Zero will establish a cycle of building additional facilities in space. Through this production system, it will gain the ability to construct infrastructure on a stellar scale.
Milestones for Civilization
Zero sets the following goals for its long-term business plan.
2035: Eliminate the Need for Power Generation on Earth
By 2035, Zero will supply the electricity humanity needs from space, establishing a system that eliminates the need for any power generation on Earth.
Zero will develop power generation facilities in space, transmission infrastructure to Earth, receiving stations, and connections to existing power grids. It will evaluate the conditions for transmitting power to Earth, including atmospheric and weather effects, to establish a viable cost and reliable supply for the electricity delivered to users.
At the same time, Zero will expand power-intensive computing and manufacturing into space. Electricity for use on Earth will be delivered to Earth, while electricity for industries in space will be supplied locally. Zero will reconfigure the locations of power generation facilities and industrial activity across Earth and space.
2150: Complete a Dyson Swarm
By 2150, Zero will complete a Dyson swarm around the Sun.
Zero will deploy large numbers of power generation facilities around the Sun, supplying energy on a stellar scale to computing facilities, factories, transport networks, and habitats. It will establish the capacity to carry out the necessary resource utilization, manufacturing, transportation, assembly, and maintenance continuously in space.
Zero will complete the physical foundations that enable humanity to harness a star’s energy. This supply capacity will expand the facilities humanity can build and the regions in which it can operate.
From 2150 Onward: Mass Produce Dyson Swarms and Expand Across the Galaxy
Zero will bring the technologies and production systems established in the solar system to other star systems.
Using the resources of each star system, it will build power generation facilities and factories and establish the capacity to expand industry locally. By standardizing specifications for design, manufacturing, construction, and operations, Zero will establish an industry capable of building Dyson swarms repeatedly.
As a company that mass-produces energy infrastructure on a stellar scale, Zero will expand its operations across the galaxy. It will then build the foundations for harnessing the energy of individual stars across multiple galaxies.
By developing power generation and production capacity in each location, Zero will expand the conditions that enable humanity to live, operate industries, and move on to new worlds.
Initial Execution Plan
Fall 2026 to Spring 2027: Ground Demonstrations
Zero will evaluate power-receiving devices through joint research with GPI, conduct outdoor power transmission demonstrations over kilometer-scale distances, and test tracking moving targets by combining multiple lasers. Measurements of power reception efficiency, long-distance transmission performance, and aiming and tracking accuracy will establish the design requirements for the orbital demonstrator.
Second Half of 2027: Orbital Demonstration
Zero will design the orbital demonstrator based on the results of the ground demonstrations, select a satellite bus, and begin testing the laser system for compatibility with the space environment.
2028 to 2032: Orbital Demonstrations for Commercial Use and Launch of Commercial Services
In 2030, Zero will demonstrate power transmission between satellites using its first spacecraft. It will gradually increase the distance between satellites and validate transmission, reception, metering, and operations as an integrated system. Based on the results, Zero will deploy commercial power-transmitting satellites and begin supplying its first customers.
Zero will then move toward operating multiple power-transmitting satellites, increasing the power supplied, publishing connection specifications, and pursuing international standardization. In parallel, it will carry out the development needed for power transmission to Earth and manufacturing in space, connecting these efforts to its long-term business plan. The implementation schedule and investment allocation will be updated based on demonstration results, commercial viability, and production capacity.
Team
Kai Sugihara | Founder and Chief Executive Officer
From a young age, Kai has been passionate about designing and building hardware, including aircraft, spacecraft, and cars. He began doing business in elementary school and has since been involved in founding and managing seven companies, spanning web and application development and AI-related services. His childhood interest in space civilization led him to study aerospace engineering, physics, and mathematics independently. At Zero Industries, he leads the development of the long-term vision and business strategy, fundraising, and external relations.
Yusei Fujii | Co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer
Yusei spent three years researching geometry in high school, discovering and proving new theorems and presenting his work in English. He placed first overall nationwide in the final round of Japan’s National Unified High School Test and founded a company offering an AI-powered grading service. He graduated at the top of his high school class and entered the University of Tokyo’s Faculty of Engineering through its recommendation-based admissions process. At Zero Industries, he leads technical development, with a focus on laser physics, control systems, and system design. As principal investigator for the joint research program, he connects research with experimental validation.
Koya Tani | Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer
Koya competed in Japan’s national skiing championships and the Inter-High School Championships. In high school, he developed a machine-learning application, organized a mock election involving members of the National Diet and high school students, and founded Miracoe, a general incorporated association with approximately 100 members across Japan. He studied at Keio University, took part in educational activities in Kenya, and studied abroad in Indonesia. At Zero Industries, he leads finance, fundraising execution, market development, hiring, and organizational operations, and has built a network of joint research partners and advisers. He oversees the management foundations that support the company’s research, development, and business.
Advisers
Kenichi Anma | Technical Adviser
Kenichi helped establish Mitsubishi Heavy Industries’ space solar power division and advanced research in laser and microwave wireless power transmission. He also worked on flight planning for the H-II rocket and other vehicles. He advises Zero Industries on wireless power transmission and technical design.
Shoichiro Asada | Senior Adviser
Shoichiro led structural design for Japanese rockets and H-IIA launch services at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and helped establish its space solar power division. A former president of the Japanese Rocket Society and executive at Synspective, he supports Zero Industries with his experience in space development and commercialization.
Motoko Mizuno | Adviser
Motoko spent 28 years at JAXA, working on international negotiations concerning the International Space Station and the drafting of Japan’s Space Activities Act. She also worked on space policy as a member of the House of Councillors. She advises Zero Industries based on her expertise in international law and space policy.
Yoshi Kakiuchi | Adviser
Yoshi has spent many years in satellite communications, working on satellite technology, satellite control, and infrastructure strategy at SKY Perfect JSAT. At Space Compass, he works on an in-orbit optical communications demonstration and contributes his expertise in satellite systems and operations.
Joint Research
Zero is conducting joint research on laser wireless power transmission for satellites with the laboratory of Kazuhisa Fujita in the field of Photonics for Energy at The Graduate School for the Creation of New Photonics Industries (GPI) in Hamamatsu, Shizuoka.
Professor Kazuhisa Fujita, who works in the field of photonics for energy at GPI, has conducted research into laser-based space solar power with JAXA and other research institutions, studying laser power transmission, the propagation of light through the atmosphere, and the conversion of received laser light into electricity as an integrated system. The lasers used by Zero’s power-transmitting satellites operate in the same wavelength band, and Zero is applying these findings directly to development.
The joint research addresses three themes. The first is to evaluate the power-receiving devices at the core of the module installed on customer satellites under actual operating conditions and establish the receiving system’s design parameters. The second is to evaluate laser transmission through the atmosphere and establish procedures for safely handling high-power lasers in preparation for outdoor power transmission demonstrations over kilometer-scale distances. The third is to establish common methods for evaluating laser power reception performance, laying the groundwork for future standardization.
The Fujita laboratory has reviewed the experimental setup for evaluating power-receiving devices and the safety plan for experiments involving high-power lasers, and Zero has incorporated that review into its designs. Results from the joint research will be incorporated progressively into the receiver module design and plans for outdoor transmission demonstrations. Drawing on GPI’s experimental facilities and Hamamatsu’s concentration of photonics companies, Zero will establish its power reception and transmission technologies on the ground before transmitting power in orbit.
Investor Comments
Maezawa Fund Inc.
“Zero Industries envisions a future in which humanity’s energy challenges are solved by paving the way toward a Dyson sphere. Providing power in space is the first step on that journey. Since we first met the team, we have been impressed by how quickly they have grown and their ability to put what they learn into action. That is why we chose to lead this funding round. We have high hopes for what their work could mean for humanity’s future and are committed to supporting them over the long term to bring that vision closer to reality.”
UntroD Capital Japan, Inc.
Mizuki Komasa (Director)
“Zero Industries is challenging the assumption that spacecraft must carry their own power sources by delivering power via laser. With a vision spanning Earth orbit, the Moon, and deep space, this endeavor could ease constraints on spacecraft design and operations, creating infrastructure that supports the growth of the space economy and the expansion of human activity beyond Earth. We were drawn to both the bold vision of building power infrastructure in space and the team pursuing it—rigorously evaluating its technical and economic viability while targeting the global market with a vision for building a presence in both Japan and the United States. The young founders’ ambition and drive give us confidence in their potential to help shape the future of the space industry. We look forward to supporting Zero Industries across technology development, commercialization, and customer acquisition as we work toward a future where power is readily available in space.”
NOW, Inc.
Ryosuke Kajitani (General Partner)
“With the rapid expansion of the space industry, securing a reliable power supply in orbit has become critical to its future. Zero Industries is tackling this challenge head-on by developing innovative energy infrastructure that enables orbital wireless power transmission via laser technology. When I first met with CEO Sugihara, I was deeply impressed by the clarity and ambition of his vision for this groundbreaking endeavor. Led by him, this talented and passionate young team is a pioneer of the future, poised to fundamentally reshape the space industry. We are honored to partner with them on this historic journey and remain fully committed to supporting their mission to turn this vision into reality.”
Midtown, Inc.
Takahiro Nakamura (CEO)
“We are delighted to support Zero Industries as an investor. Its young leadership team brings exceptional commitment, an inspiring vision, and a clear business roadmap to the space industry. We were particularly impressed by the team’s determination to turn its vision into reality and the clarity of its plans for building the business step by step. In a sector that demands long-term dedication, we believe this combination of ambition and a practical path forward provides a strong foundation for growth. We look forward to supporting the team as it develops its business, creates new opportunities, and helps shape the future of the space industry.”
Kazuma Yamauchi (CEO of KZM & Company)
“Throughout my career, I have devoted myself to one thing: helping people with extraordinary individuality, passion, and talent turn their genius into businesses that change the world. That is what I see in Zero. The founders are young, but in every conversation they have shown a clarity of thought, ambition, and sense of ownership that would stand out among far more experienced entrepreneurs. Their vision of making energy abundant for all of humanity is among the boldest a startup can pursue, and they have structured the company for global scale from the start. Having worked alongside deep tech startups from Japan as they built their presence in the United States, I know how much it takes to succeed across markets. Zero has that combination of bold vision and disciplined execution, and I look forward to supporting them for as long as they need.”
Comment from an Angel Investor
“I am delighted to support Zero Industries as an investor.
The single biggest reason behind my decision is Founder & CEO Kai Sugihara himself. Since launching his first business at the age of 11, Kai has built companies across software and AI. Now, he has chosen to take on the physical world.
While AI is rapidly expanding what humanity can understand and design, the energy and physical infrastructure needed to turn those designs into reality are struggling to keep pace. Zero Industries’s approach stands out not only for its scale, but for the sharpness of its problem definition—rethinking generation, transmission, storage, and settlement as a single integrated system, while building a space-based solar power and laser/microwave transmission grid to free humanity from planetary energy constraints.
What determines the fate of a deep-tech and infrastructure venture is not technology alone, but whether there is a leader who can hold a long-term vision and continuously attract top-tier talent and expertise. Kai has already brought together exceptionally capable young engineers alongside seasoned veterans from the forefront of Japan’s space development and wireless power research. That ability to bring people in gives me real confidence.
A mission to sustain order and life in the universe may sound like a distant future. Yet Zero Industries is building toward it step by step—starting from concrete milestones like supplying power to low-Earth orbit satellites and fundamentally expanding the energy available to humanity. As an investor, I look forward to supporting this team, which combines the boldness to dream big with the determination to build, for the long haul.”
Takumi Asano (CEO of h plus holdings G.K.)
“I first discovered Kai Sugihara through his posts on X. Even then, his ability to look far beyond the present—and the drive to act on what he envisioned—stood out. At our first meeting, he shared an extraordinary vision for space solar power systems (SSPS). He had already assembled talented engineers, including Yusei Fujii, who were tackling the technical challenges behind it.
That combination of ambition and execution led us to support the team at an early stage. Seeing them use that support to build a prototype, and go on to secure this major funding round, has been especially meaningful.
Now, as Zero Industries enters a new chapter, the team’s mission of expanding access to energy has the potential to reshape the physical foundations of civilization. I look forward to seeing how Kai and his team turn that far-reaching vision into reality.”
*Based on company research as of October 9, 2026. The comparison covers selected major funding rounds publicly announced as “pre-seed” by companies and projects with an operating base in Japan, including fundraising through overseas holding companies and similar entities. Multiple closings of the same round are combined; additional funding announced as separate rounds, subsequent rounds, and grants are excluded. The ranking applies only to the cases reviewed and is not an exhaustive ranking of all pre-seed funding rounds in Japan.