How Fermenstation pivoted their positioning to win a national pitch

Turning waste into global opportunity 

Fermenstation converts unused biomass into low-carbon, regenerative ingredients for cosmetics, food, and agriculture. Founded by Lina Sakai Watanabe, the company was ready to move beyond Japan.

  • Challenge: Aligning messaging to attract global investors and customers
  • Need: Clarity on how to present their unique value proposition in international markets
  • Solution: Hypergrowth connected Fermenstation with seasoned founders and advisors who guided them in refining their messaging, sharpening their pitch, and positioning for global growth.

Refining positioning to unlock global growth

Through Hypergrowth, Fermenstation gained tailored mentorship, refined its messaging, and achieved national recognition that fueled its international expansion.

  • Connection with Ricky Cassini, co-founder and CEO of Michroma, as a dedicated program advisor

  • Multiple advisory sessions focused on sharpening the business pitch

  • Refined messaging designed to resonate with both investors and customers globally

  • First prize at SushiTech Challenge 2024, securing $60,000 in funding

  • National recognition as Tokyo’s most exciting startup, boosting credibility

  • Positioning that enabled entry into the US market with confidence

  • Revenue doubled during the program, proving business traction

  • Development of a repeatable framework for pitching to stakeholders

  • Strengthened investor readiness and international expansion strategy

Highlights
2x
Revenue Growth
1ST
Place at National Contest
$60,000
Prize
Lina Watanabe
Lina Watanabe
CEO & Founder

During Hypergrowth, Fermenstation has doubled its revenue, and the Hypergrowth team has been invaluable in its support. Without Ricky’s knowledge, I would not have won the SushiTech global pitch event!

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