Looking to tap into a hot market opportunity, Singapore’s Kasagi Labo has earmarked US$10 million to develop and produce new anime content, starting with a project called Special Kid Factory (pictured).

Set in a dystopian future, this sci-fi shōnen (anime designed to appeal to boys) series revolves around a kid who discovers that he’s a clone after he meets his doppelganger. Seeking answers, the two go on an intergalactic quest where they solve mysteries.

First announced in March 2023, Special Kid Factory is a buzzy co-pro between Kasagi and Japanese studio NAZ (ID:INVADED). They premiered a first trailer in July at LA’s Anime Expo, and it has since racked up more than 1.5 million views on YouTube.

Kasagi’s US$10-million production investment comes from a bigger US$20-million pool that the company raised. Its most recent funding push took place in June 2024, with Burda Principal Investments leading a pre-series-A round that brought in US$12 million.