Rebase, which operates instabase, a rental-space matching service, listed on the TSE Growth Market in December 2022. The number of listed spaces has surpassed 50,000 nationwide, and the founder discusses the company's early struggles and current growth strategy.
Rebase, which operates instabase, a rental-space matching platform, listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange Growth Market in December 2022. The number of listed spaces has exceeded 50,000 nationwide, and the company has grown after overcoming financial difficulties during its early years before listing.
Founder Sato Kai (佐藤 海) took a leave of absence while studying at Hosei University and experienced Silicon Valley, describing the origins of his ambition to start a business. In the early days, the company had initial capital of ¥250,000 and an account balance of several thousand yen, and expanded its business from cafés that served as offices. The founders visited spaces themselves to secure listings, and steadily building customer acquisition was key to growth.
The company uses a fully performance-based business model, with no charge for listings. Value is determined by the ability to attract customers after a listing, while accumulated data has also become a major differentiator. Now in its 13th fiscal period, the company is working to maximize service value through booking data.
Its future vision is to become the “city's OS,” connecting people and places throughout Japan, centered on “Where It Starts” and “Get Together.” Even as the population declines, the company emphasizes creating gatherings and building mechanisms that generate added value.