Kenji Kakuta
President, iHeart Japan Corporation
Bio
Kenji Kakuta founded iHeart Japan Corporation, a biotechnology company, in 2013, and has been managing it as its president ever since. The company is developing a regenerative medical product for heart failure, which is made from iPS cells and biomaterials. The first clinical trial of the product is currently underway. The company is one of the most promising Japanese companies in the regenerative medicine industry, having been selected as a "J-Startup" by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry in 2021.
Beyond his role at iHeart Japan Corporation, he also actively contributes to the SAMURAI Biotech Association, an industry group for biotechnology startups in Japan, where he works to enhance the industry landscape.
Before leading iHeart Japan Corporation, he dedicated a total of 8 years at two distinct venture capital funds, where he was responsible for investments in biotechnology companies across a broad spectrum of regions, such as Japan, North America, Western Europe, China and Singapore. He invested in 23 companies, approximately half of them have been successful.
His professional journey began in product development at Procter & Gamble Far East Inc., where he discovered the dynamics and excitement of the business world.
In 2016, he was awarded by the Government of Japan as a meritorious contributor to collaboration between industry, academia and government. He has received many other awards and was also selected as a "Superstar Entrepreneurs" by Forbes Japan in both 2018 and 2024.
He holds a master's degree and a bachelor's degree in Agricultural Science from Kyoto University.
Personal Quote:
“We are bold pioneers introducing new technologies early, tackling unprecedented challenges, setting societal precedents, and striving to deliver an unimaginable future to those living in the present. - Kenji Kakuta”