Key Takeaways
- Six startups selected for Batch 13 of NEC X’s Elev X! Ignite program, covering sectors such as AgTech, biotech compliance, enterprise AI, and seasonal workforce management.
- Applications grew 64% year-on-year, signaling rising demand for early-stage venture support and global innovation partnerships.
- Selected companies benefit from access to NEC’s global tech ecosystem, including patents, mentorship, and market readiness resources.
- Agri-focused startups include Vigneron.AI and Yadag, offering AI-driven vineyard analytics and seasonal staffing automation respectively.
- Batch 14 applications open in May 2025.
Startup Innovation Meets Global Scaling at NEC X
NEC X, the Silicon Valley-based venture studio backed by Japanese technology giant NEC Corporation, has announced the six startups selected for the 13th batch of its Elev X! Ignite program. The announcement comes as the program sees record-breaking interest from founders worldwide, with applications rising by 64% year-over-year.
The selected startups span industries including agriculture, healthcare, compliance, financial services, and enterprise technology, reflecting broad market demand for AI-driven solutions and scalable innovation.
NEC X Batch 13 Startups at a Glance
- Bazzuka AI: A conversational AI platform for debt collection that improves recovery rates and operational efficiency.
- EnterpriseChai: An AI-powered insights engine designed to support go-to-market teams with data-driven decision-making.
- Lokatial: Offers regulatory compliance automation for pharma and life sciences firms, targeting up to 60% in cost reductions.
- Otani: Supports venture capital firms with AI tools to enhance early-stage investment decisions.
- Vigneron.AI: Focused on agriculture, this startup helps vineyard managers optimize crop quality and yield using data analytics.
- Yadag: A workforce automation tool for farms, leveraging WhatsApp to streamline hiring, onboarding, and compliance for seasonal labor. The platform has over 30,000 worker sign-ups.
Support and Resources for Scaling
Each startup in Batch 13 gains access to NEC X’s comprehensive support infrastructure, including:
- NEC’s portfolio of 45,000 global patents
- Expert mentorship and investor readiness programs
- Workshops and networking across 55+ international markets
“Elev X! provides a collaborative environment where bold ideas become impactful solutions,” said Shintaro Matsumoto, President and CEO of NEC X. “Our record-breaking growth shows that startup founders and investors alike recognize the unmatched value NEC X delivers.”
Continued Momentum for Elev X!
Previous Elev X! graduates include Chekable, GPx, Verdi, and Qualitative Intelligence, with several having raised follow-on funding or reached commercial milestones.
Applications for Batch 14 are expected to open in May 2025. More details can be found on the NEC X website.
1 Comment