Handcraft Entertainment has secured $1 million in funding to expand J-pop's global presence, led by multi-platinum producer and six-time Japan Gold Disc Award winner Michael Africk.

The company combines top-tier production with strategic marketing, partnering with Grammy-nominated producer Louis Bell, known for his work with Post Malone, Taylor Swift, and Justin Bieber. Legal representation is provided by Jason Boyarski of Boyarski Fritz, LLP.

Handcraft's artists have achieved significant milestones, including:

• Billboard displays in Tokyo's Shibuya Crossing
• Performances at Saitama Super Arena and LA's Dodger Stadium
• Global releases through Virgin Records and B-Zone
• Singles reaching No. 2 on Usen charts and Top 50 on US radio
• Partnerships with major lifestyle brands

Rising star Hana Kuro has garnered millions of views across social media platforms before her debut single "Be Romantic." Another artist, Anna Aya, has expanded into fashion, featuring in campaigns for Dior, Chanel, Ferragamo, and Valentino.

Notable investors include:

• Daniel Weinand (Shopify founder)
• Phil Hellmuth (professional poker player)
• Jeff Assaf (ICG Advisors)
• Owen Grover (former EVP iHeartMedia)

The company is pursuing additional funding to accelerate content production, expand collaborations, and strengthen its global market presence. With Japan being the world's second-largest music market, Handcraft Entertainment aims to replicate K-pop's international success with J-pop.

"We believe the time is now for J-pop to take its rightful place on the global stage," says CEO Michael Africk. "We are building the infrastructure to make J-pop a dominant force beyond Japan — something that has never been done before at this scale."

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