Teamshares, a U.S. startup focused on transforming small businesses into employee-owned establishments, is expanding to Japan to address the country’s growing succession crisis. The startup purchases small companies lacking successors and transitions them into employee ownership.

The company established a Japanese unit in the previous year marking their first venture outside the U.S. They have now begun identifying potential target businesses. Financial support for Teamshares’ endeavors has been provided by a venture capital division of Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group.

This expansion into Japan comes at a time when aging owners represent a succession challenge for numerous companies. Teamshares’ model offers these companies a viable alternative, ensuring continuity, and empowering the employees with ownership and leadership.

Source: U.S. startup tackles Japan succession crisis with employee ownership.