[Over 70 Pages] Transforming Japanese M&A from an 'IPO Alternative' to a 'Growth Strategy': Protostar Releases Practical Implementation Guide for Startup M&A

Protostar Inc. (Headquarters: Chuo-ku, Tokyo; Representative Director: Hidemaro Maekawa), whose mission is to support challengers, has released a practical "Startup M&A Implementation Guide (over 70 pages)" that systematizes the knowledge accumulated through its "STARTUP M&A Circulation" support program over approximately one and a half years.

Background: The Current State of Startup M&A Japan's startup ecosystem is at a major turning point. Since 2021, numerous large-scale M&A deals worth tens to hundreds of billions of yen have occurred in Japan. Furthermore, the government's "Five-Year Plan for Startup Development" emphasizes the activation of M&A, accelerating a shift from an "IPO-only" approach to "exit and growth strategies through M&A."

However, despite rising market expectations, a significant gap remains in practical implementation. The M&A process is extremely complex, and unique business customs and know-how are often "black-boxed," leaving many management teams anxious due to a lack of decision-making information.

Our company has released this guide to break down this barrier of "information asymmetry" and create an environment where challengers can take their next step with correct knowledge.

Contents of this Guide (Excerpts) This guide focuses on the "first step" based on practical field experience, rather than just theory. ・ Overview and latest trends in startup M&A ・ How to resolve "information asymmetry" faced by both sellers and buyers ・ Practical workflow visualizing the complex process ・ Checklist to overcome the "obscurity" hindering decision-making

Rui Ikeda Business Head, Startup M&A Division

Over the past year and a half, since October 2024, we have been promoting the M&A support program "STARTUP M&A Circulation," engaging in discussions with many sellers, buyers, and experts.