TOKYO -- Japan has 13 unlisted startups approaching unicorn status, according to a Nikkei survey, the highest number to date, as investors pour money into companies offering solutions to societal challenges such as labor shortages and decarbonization.
The ranks of these "pre-unicorns" -- valued at more than 50 billion yen ($340 million), but below the $1 billion line that defines unicorns -- grew by three from last year. These companies could potentially reach unicorn status after one or two more rounds of funding.
