Arches is a knowledge-sharing platform that connects industry experts across Asia with global clients, providing insights and strategic intelligence to investment and corporate strategy professionals. Founded in 2019 by former consultants from Accenture and YCP Solidiance, the company initially focused on consumer research in Japan. Arches' mission is to "Share knowledge, Empower Asia," aiming to democratize access to specialized expertise across the region.
Key Strategic Focus
Arches specializes in facilitating expert consultations, offering services such as one-on-one online, phone, or on-site expert consultations, expert surveys, short-term staffing solutions, and customized reports. The company leverages a robust expert database, particularly emphasizing Southeast Asia, China, Japan, and India, to provide clients with timely and relevant insights.
Financials and Funding
In December 2021, Arches raised $1.6 million through a third-party allotment to investors including Uzabase, Hakuhodo DY Ventures, and eight angel investors. This funding aimed to enhance the company's recruitment capabilities and expand its expert knowledge-sharing services across five Asian locations. By 2024, Arches secured an additional $3 million from corporate and venture capital investors, expanding its expert database to 100,000 specialists and serving 300 clients.
Technological Platform and Innovation
Arches employs proprietary "Expert Hunting" technology, enabling precise and rapid identification of highly specialized experts tailored to client needs. This technology supports various services, including expert interviews, surveys, and short-term staffing solutions, ensuring clients receive accurate and relevant information efficiently.
Leadership Team
- Hiroki Kato, Founder & CEO
- Former strategic consultant in Tokyo and private equity professional in Vietnam.
- Holds a B.A. in Economics from the University of Tokyo.
- Shota Kambara, Founder & COO
- Experience as a strategy consultant and director in startups.
- Earned a B.A. in Economics from Waseda University.
- Naoki Kobayashi, CTO
- Background as a data analyst and AI engineer for a Japanese fast-growing startup.
- Holds an M.Sc. in Engineering from the University of Tokyo.
- Taro Takeuchi, CMO
- Expertise in web and CSG marketing for IT companies and FMCG multinationals.
- Graduated with a B.A. in Law from Keio University.
- Thai Thanh Hai, Director
- Finance expert with experience at SSI and AEON Vietnam, and as a portfolio manager in private equity.
- Holds degrees in Economics and Finance from the University of Tokyo.
Competitor Profile
Market Insights and Dynamics
The expert network industry is experiencing significant growth, driven by the increasing demand for specialized knowledge to inform business decisions. Companies seek timely and relevant insights to navigate complex markets, particularly in Asia's rapidly developing economies.
Competitor Analysis
Arches faces competition from several established expert networks, including:
- Maven: Offers a global platform connecting clients with experts across various industries.
- Inex One: Provides a marketplace for expert networks, enabling efficient collaboration with multiple providers.
- Zintro: Connects businesses with experts for market research interviews, surveys, and project work.
- Xperts Council: Specializes in facilitating expert consultations for investment and corporate clients.
- MeasureMatch Marketplace: Focuses on connecting clients with consultants for marketing, commerce, and customer experience projects.
These competitors offer similar services, emphasizing the importance of Arches' regional expertise and technological capabilities to maintain a competitive edge.
Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships
Arches has established significant partnerships to enhance its market position and service offerings. Notably, the company secured investments from Uzabase and Hakuhodo DY Ventures, facilitating the expansion of its expert knowledge-sharing services across Asia.
Operational Insights
Arches' strategic focus on Asia, combined with its proprietary "Expert Hunting" technology, positions the company to effectively meet the growing demand for specialized knowledge in the region. By leveraging its extensive expert database and technological capabilities, Arches offers clients timely and relevant insights, distinguishing itself from competitors.
Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions
Looking ahead, Arches aims to further enhance its technological platform to improve the precision and speed of expert matching. The company plans to expand its services to additional Asian markets, strengthening its position as a leading knowledge-sharing platform in the region. By continuously refining its offerings and leveraging strategic partnerships, Arches is well-positioned to capitalize on the increasing demand for expert insights in Asia's dynamic business environment.
Contact Information
- Website: arches-global.com
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/arches-global
