CyberAgent Inc.’s streaming platform ABEMA has launched a program to collaborate with independent animation creators, targeting emerging talent across Asia as the Japanese conglomerate deepens its push into original content.
The initiative, called Project PRISMation, announced three creators for its inaugural batch: Thailand-based Zemyata, Japanese collective Uguisu Kobo, and Vietnamese duo rapitus. Their work will be released weekly starting January 16 on ABEMA and social media channels.
The move reflects CyberAgent’s broader strategy to build proprietary intellectual property rather than simply licensing third-party content. The company has invested heavily in animation infrastructure over the past two years, acquiring game developer Nitroplus for ¥16.7 billion ($107 million) and launching production studios CA Soa and Studio Kurm.
Whether hunting for talent among web-based short-form creators can yield commercially viable franchises remains uncertain. ABEMA said it plans to expand the program with an open call for submissions beginning around May 2026, targeting both domestic and international animators.
CyberAgent has scored recent hits including “The Summer Hikaru Died” and “Apocalypse Hotel.” The company views original IP development as essential to competing globally, though its streaming platform remains largely focused on the Japanese market.
