Synflux, a Japanese startup that calls itself a “Speculative Design Laboratory,” announced on January 15 that it has raised ¥270 million (approximately $1.7 million) in funding.
The company has developed “Algorithmic Couture,” a system designed to reduce material waste during the pattern-making process required to produce clothing.
Apparel Products Designed Using the System Have Already Been Released
According to Synflux, even when patterns are available, clothing production has traditionally resulted in an average fabric waste rate of around 15% to 30%. To address this issue, the company’s Algorithmic Couture leverages technologies such as machine learning and 3D simulation to reduce material loss. Synflux says the system can cut fabric waste down to about 3% to 5%, compared with the previously typical 15% to 30% figure.
The company has also developed “WORTH,” a platform that offers virtual fashion in the metaverse.
Synflux was founded in 2019 by CEO Kazuya Kawasaki and COO/CDO Kotaro Sano. Both co-founders describe themselves as “speculative fashion designers,” and are alumni of Keio University and the Keio University Graduate School.
In October 2024, LITTLE LEAGUE used Algorithmic Couture to design products released under the “Ron Herman” brand. SAZABY LEAGUE—the parent company of LITTLE LEAGUE—also participated in this latest funding round.
Funding to Support Global Expansion
In the January 2025 round, Synflux received funding from Collateral Good, Japan Green Investment Corp. for Carbon Neutrality (JICN), Circular Economy and Nature Positive Investment I Limited Partnership, and SAZABY LEAGUE (mentioned above).
Among these investors, Collateral Good is a Switzerland-based venture capital firm that invests in sustainable businesses, and this deal is said to be its first investment in a Japanese company. JICN is a public-private fund in Japan that invests in companies related to GX (Green Transformation — a concept originating in Japan that aims for new economic growth driven primarily by decarbonization).
Regarding how the funds will be used, Synflux stated that it will “strengthen the competitiveness of ‘Algorithmic Couture’ in the global market,” with a particular focus on expanding adoption across upstream supply chains, including OEM and ODM partners.
Kawasaki, CEO of Synflux, commented:
“Going forward, we will deepen collaboration with the EU not only in the areas of design and manufacturing, but also in the fields of disclosure and reporting linked to corporate governance and policy. We have finally put the preparations in place to seriously expand our sustainable fashion business internationally. While turning this rare experience into business growth, we will also ensure that what we learn is properly returned to Japan as well.”
