East Asia VC Funds

Kakao Ventures, founded in 2012, is a premier venture capital firm based in Seongnam-si, South Korea. As an independent subsidiary of Kakao Corp., it focuses on seed to growth-stage investments, primarily targeting tech-enabled startups in sectors like enterprise software, productivity tools, SaaS, and gaming. The firm has a notable portfolio, including successful investments in companies such as Lunit, an AI-powered medical imaging company; Dable, a content discovery platform; and Kids Note, an app for parent-teacher communication. Kakao Ventures manages several funds, emphasizing a founder-friendly approach that offers substantial support beyond capital. The firm aims to foster innovation and growth in the tech ecosystem by providing strategic guidance, mentorship, and networking opportunities to its portfolio companies. This comprehensive support system has enabled many startups to scale successfully and achieve significant market positions. With a strong commitment to driving technological advancement, Kakao Ventures actively seeks out innovative solutions that have the potential to disrupt industries and improve lives. The firm’s investment strategy focuses on identifying and nurturing early-stage companies with high growth potential, ensuring they have the resources and expertise needed to thrive in competitive markets. Kakao Ventures’ team comprises experienced professionals with deep industry knowledge and a passion for entrepreneurship. This combination of expertise and dedication has established the firm as a key player in the venture capital landscape, contributing to the growth and success of Korea’s tech startup ecosystem.

Korea Biomedical Industry Development Institute (KBIC) is a pivotal entity in South Korea's life sciences and biomedical sectors. Established to stimulate innovation and economic growth, KBIC supports a wide range of activities in medical, pharmaceutical, and biological fields, focusing on advanced technologies like AI and regenerative medicine. KBIC operates through various initiatives and partnerships to foster a robust ecosystem for biomedical research and development. Key areas of focus include promoting bio-health exports, enhancing R&D capabilities, and nurturing talent within the bio-health industry. The South Korean government provides substantial funding and regulatory support to boost the global competitiveness of Korean bio-pharma companies. The institute emphasizes international collaboration, participating in global conventions and establishing partnerships with leading research institutions and biopharmaceutical companies worldwide. This approach enhances innovation and facilitates the entry of Korean companies into the global market.

Keystone Capital is an entrepreneurial holding company and private equity firm founded in 1994 by Kent Dauten and Scott Gwilliam. Based in Chicago, Illinois, Keystone has historically utilized the personal capital of its partners to acquire high-quality, market-leading businesses. In 2021, the firm closed its debut institutional fund, Keystone Capital Fund II, LP, with $420 million in capital commitments, marking a significant evolution in its strategy by including external investors. Keystone Capital focuses on long-term value creation by acquiring and growing businesses across various sectors, including engineering and technical services, tech-enabled services, commercial services and engineered products, and food and beverage manufacturing. The firm emphasizes operational and growth-oriented support for business owners and management teams, aiming for sustainable success. Keystone’s investment philosophy is built on three core values: expertise, conservative investing, and creativity. They conduct thorough preliminary tests to ensure profitability and optimal risk diversification in each transaction, maintain a controlled risk approach to provide investor confidence, and employ creative thinking to overcome barriers and execute complex deals. The firm's recent investments include partnerships with Inspire11 and ClearWater Solutions. Keystone has completed over 110 acquisitions throughout its history and continues to actively manage and grow its portfolio, recently completing ten add-on acquisitions and selling two platform investments in late 2020.

KKR, a global investment giant established in 1976, boasts a diverse and robust portfolio. Among their notable tech investments are GoDaddy, FanDuel, and BMC Software, while in energy and healthcare, they back EP Energy, Ridge Natural Resources, BridgeBio Pharma, and Coastal Carolina Hospital. Their industry focus is broad, spanning private equity, infrastructure, real estate, and credit, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and long-term value creation. Geographically, KKR's investments stretch across the Americas, Europe, and Asia Pacific, reflecting their global reach. Their strategy emphasizes patient, disciplined investing, leveraging deep industry knowledge and a network of expert resources to drive growth in their portfolio companies. They are known for leading investment rounds and typically target companies with substantial growth potential and innovative capabilities. KKR often writes large checks, frequently exceeding $100 million, and takes an active role in guiding their investments, offering strategic advice and operational support. Companies looking to attract KKR's interest should highlight their growth potential, solid business models, and alignment with KKR’s strategic objectives. The firm’s leadership includes Henry Kravis and George Roberts, who bring decades of investment expertise and are based in New York. KKR’s team of over 750 investment professionals worldwide ensures that each investment benefits from specialized expertise and strategic insights. For startups and businesses, aligning proposals with KKR’s focus on sustainable growth and value creation is key to engaging successfully with this investment powerhouse.

Legend Capital, established in 2001, is a leading venture capital and private equity firm in China. The firm focuses on early-stage and growth-stage investments, managing over $10 billion in commitments. With a strong presence in Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Hong Kong, Seoul, and Singapore, Legend Capital has invested in around 600 companies across various sectors. Some of their notable investments include Pony.ai, which focuses on autonomous driving technology, and Beijing ESWIN Technology Group, a key player in semiconductor products and services. Legend Capital also supports companies like ZongmuTech in autonomous driving and Atour, a lifestyle accommodation brand. Additionally, they have invested in prominent companies like Bilibili, a leading video community, and Tuhu, an automotive consumer service platform. Legend Capital has a significant footprint in the life sciences sector, with portfolio companies like Recbio, a novel vaccines company, and Pharmaron, a leading contract research organization. Their investments are characterized by a focus on innovative technologies and solutions that drive industry advancements and address critical needs in the market. The firm is committed to providing comprehensive support to its portfolio companies, including governance, business strategy, R&D resources, and financial backing, helping them to scale and achieve long-term success.

Lightspeed Venture Partners, founded in 2000, is a prominent global venture capital firm based in Menlo Park, California. The firm specializes in multi-stage investments, supporting companies from seed to growth stages. Lightspeed's investment focus spans several sectors, including enterprise, consumer, fintech, and healthcare. Some of Lightspeed's notable investments include Snapchat, Affirm, and Rubrik. Snapchat, a popular social media platform, went public in 2017, marking a significant success for the firm. Affirm, a financial technology company, also achieved a successful IPO in 2021. Rubrik, a leader in cloud data management, is another key company in their portfolio that highlights Lightspeed's focus on disruptive technology. Lightspeed Venture Partners has raised substantial funds over the years to support its diverse portfolio. In 2020, the firm raised $4.2 billion across three funds: an early-stage venture fund, a growth fund for later-stage investments, and an opportunity fund for doubling down on successful investments. The firm's philosophy centers on deep commitment and collaboration with founders, providing not just capital but also strategic guidance and support to help build enduring companies. With a global presence and a history of backing innovative companies, Lightspeed continues to be a key player in the venture capital landscape.

The London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG) is a powerhouse in global financial markets, offering an extensive range of services that support capital formation, trade execution, clearing, and data analytics across multiple asset classes. As one of the world's leading financial infrastructure and data providers, LSEG is integral to the functioning of global markets. It operates the London Stock Exchange, one of the most renowned exchanges globally, and is the force behind FTSE Russell, a suite of indices that inform investment decisions, support portfolio construction, and enable risk management. LSEG is particularly noted for its leadership in sustainable finance, having pioneered the first dedicated Green Bond Segment and the Green Economy Mark, which identifies companies deriving substantial revenue from environmentally beneficial products and services. This focus aligns with the group's broader commitment to sustainability, as seen in its initiatives to support the global green economy, including offering tools and resources for companies pursuing sustainable finance. The group also has a significant data and analytics arm, which provides a unique open platform that empowers investors and companies to make informed decisions based on best-in-class data. With operations in over 60 countries and major offices in London, LSEG is a truly global entity, connecting capital with opportunity and driving economic growth worldwide. Through strategic partnerships, like its 10-year collaboration with Microsoft, LSEG continues to innovate, ensuring that it remains at the forefront of financial markets infrastructure, supporting both traditional and emerging financial needs.

Longevity Vision Fund (LVF) is a venture capital firm based in New York City, founded by Sergey Young. The fund focuses on investing in technologies and companies that aim to extend healthy human lifespans and address the negative effects of aging. With a $100 million fund, LVF supports innovations in preventive medicine, early detection, medical technologies, artificial intelligence in healthcare, longevity therapies, and regenerative medicine. LVF's mission is to accelerate breakthroughs in longevity and make these advancements more accessible and affordable to the general public. Notable investments include Senda Biosciences, a company dedicated to developing treatments through its proprietary molecular platform. The fund is led by Sergey Young, a prominent figure in the longevity space with over 20 years of investment experience. Other key team members include Avetik Arakelyan, Sourav Sinha, and Kris Verburgh, who bring diverse expertise in healthcare, technology, and finance. LVF targets early-stage investments and partners with innovative companies worldwide, aiming to transform the life sciences and healthcare industries. They emphasize a long-term commitment to improving human health and promoting a healthier, longer life for everyone.

Marubeni Corporation, founded in 1858 and incorporated in 1949, is a prominent Japanese general trading company headquartered in Tokyo. The company operates across numerous sectors including lifestyle, IT solutions, food, agriculture, chemicals, metals and mineral resources, energy, power, infrastructure projects, aerospace, shipping, finance, leasing, real estate, and industrial machinery. Marubeni is committed to sustainability and innovation, aiming to create solutions that foster positive societal impact while maintaining financial performance. This commitment is reflected in their investments and operations across diverse industries worldwide. The company's philosophy of "Fairness, Innovation, and Harmony" drives its vision for a sustainable and prosperous future. The company has a robust global network with over 4,300 employees and numerous subsidiaries and affiliates, highlighting its significant presence and influence in the international market. Marubeni's extensive operations and strategic investments underscore its role as a key player in global trading and investment.

Matrix Partners is a powerhouse in early-stage venture capital, boasting over four decades of experience and $4 billion in assets under management. Their portfolio spans transformative startups like Canva, Afterpay, Oculus, and Hubspot, among 65+ IPOs and 110+ acquisitions. With offices in San Francisco and Boston, Matrix invests globally, focusing on the U.S., India, and China. Their sweet spot is in sectors like AI, fintech, digital health, and B2B SaaS. Matrix is known for its commitment to backing founders from seed through Series A, providing checks ranging from $100K to $1M. They emphasize patience, nurturing relationships with company builders and former founders, helping them scale effectively. While they often lead rounds, Matrix also co-invests, partnering with top VCs like Y Combinator and Andreessen Horowitz. Key team members include Pranay Desai and Paul Sherer in San Francisco, and they maintain a reputation for being hands-on, leveraging deep expertise across diverse tech-driven industries. Entrepreneurs seeking funding should approach Matrix with a clear vision for scalable innovation, as the firm is laser-focused on high-impact, technology-driven ventures.

MedVenture Partners, Inc., a Tokyo-based venture capital firm, specializes in early-stage investments within the life sciences sector, with a distinct focus on medical devices and healthcare technologies. Established in 2013 by Hajime Oshita and Dr. Fumiaki Ikeno, the firm has rapidly built a reputation for identifying and nurturing innovative startups poised to disrupt the healthcare landscape. Their portfolio includes standout companies such as Biomedical Solutions, Inc., which exemplifies their commitment to fostering groundbreaking technologies. MedVenture’s investment strategy is characterized by a hands-on approach, often leading funding rounds and providing substantial guidance to portfolio companies. They prioritize startups that demonstrate strong potential for global impact, particularly those addressing critical medical needs. Their geographic focus remains largely on Japan, but they have shown interest in companies that can expand internationally. With over 22 billion Yen in assets under management, MedVenture manages multiple funds, the most recent of which raised 99 billion Yen. The firm’s approach to investment is strategic and collaborative, leveraging deep medical expertise alongside innovative technology. Startups seeking investment should be prepared to present compelling, well-researched pitches that highlight their innovation and market potential. Led by a team of seasoned professionals, including Oshita, who has over two decades of experience in the medical device industry, MedVenture Partners is committed to driving successful exits and significant market advances. Their active involvement in the growth and development of their portfolio companies underscores their role as a key player in Japan’s venture capital landscape.

Mistletoe, a venture capital firm based in Kanazawa, Japan, was founded by Taizo Son and Atsushi Taira in 2013. The fund focuses on early-stage investments in tech-driven startups with a strong emphasis on sustainability and social impact. Notable investments include Zipline, Playco, and Sea, reflecting their commitment to innovative and impactful ventures. Mistletoe's industry focus spans across biotechnology, clean energy, health tech, and entertainment, showing a diverse portfolio aimed at transformative technologies. Geographically, their investments are global, covering North America, Asia, and Europe, with recent activities in countries like Japan, the U.S., and Finland. Their strategy revolves around partnering with visionary founders who tackle global challenges. Mistletoe typically invests in seed to series A stages, often leading rounds with an average check size of around $2 million. They have a collaborative approach, frequently co-investing with firms like Sequoia Capital and Plug and Play Tech Center. Active in fostering an ecosystem of like-minded investors and entrepreneurs, Mistletoe values innovation and societal contributions highly. The team, including key members like Michael Kim and Satoshi Fujimura, is primarily based in Japan with a significant presence in Singapore. Startups looking to engage with Mistletoe should emphasize their mission-driven goals and innovative solutions. Approaching them through warm introductions and clear, impactful pitches increases the chances of successful engagement​.

Mizuho Bank, a core subsidiary of Mizuho Financial Group, operates as a global financial services provider with an extensive network of over 505 branches in Japan and 38 other countries. Headquartered in Tokyo, Mizuho is a prominent player in both retail and corporate banking sectors. The bank’s name, meaning "golden ears of rice," signifies prosperity and growth. Mizuho Bank has a diverse investment portfolio and notable investments include a significant stake in Vietnam's leading digital payment company, M-Service, which showcases its focus on expanding digital financial services in emerging markets. The bank has also been involved in several high-profile M&A deals globally, leveraging its strong expertise in structured finance and equity underwriting. Mizuho's strategy emphasizes building long-term relationships with clients by offering tailored financial solutions that include equity and bond financing, M&A advisory services, and structured finance. The bank has also made substantial efforts to lead in sustainable finance, integrating ESG factors into its investment decisions and operations. Key members of Mizuho’s leadership, including CEO Koji Fujiwara, bring a wealth of experience and strategic vision, guiding the bank’s initiatives in innovative financial services and global expansion. For businesses seeking investment, Mizuho’s approach is to provide comprehensive support through its extensive global network and deep industry insights, making it a reliable partner for growth and sustainability​.

Mobile Internet Capital (MIC), established in 1999, is a venture capital firm based in Japan. The firm focuses on investing in innovative technology companies with a strong emphasis on internet and mobile-related sectors. MIC has a successful track record with 22 IPOs and numerous exits. Their portfolio includes companies like Gree, a social networking service provider, and Mercari, a popular marketplace app. MIC invests in early to growth-stage companies, supporting them through multiple rounds to help them achieve significant milestones and market expansion. MIC is known for its strategic approach, leveraging its deep industry knowledge and network to provide not only capital but also valuable guidance and connections to its portfolio companies. They aim to foster long-term growth and innovation in the tech industry.

Monozukuri Ventures is a venture capital firm with headquarters in Kyoto, Japan, and New York, USA. Founded through the merger of Darma Tech Labs and FabFoundry, Monozukuri Ventures focuses on investing in hardware and deep tech startups. The firm's mission is to help entrepreneurs rapidly deliver high-quality products to the market, regardless of production volume, by providing essential resources such as investment, mentorship, prototyping know-how, and manufacturing expertise. Monozukuri Ventures manages multiple funds, including their second fund, which targets manufacturing innovation and supports startups in sectors such as healthcare, industrial IoT, climate tech, cleantech, smart home, and robotics. Their typical investment ranges from $100,000 to $300,000, with follow-on investments up to $1 million. The firm also offers technical consulting services, providing comprehensive support from ideation and prototyping to mass production. Monozukuri Ventures emphasizes open innovation, fostering collaboration between startups and large corporations to accelerate business development and market entry. Notable investments by Monozukuri Ventures include companies like EdgeCortix, which specializes in AI semiconductors, and Rutilea, which provides DX solutions for manufacturing and inspection processes using hardware and AI.

Morningside Group is a venture capital and private equity firm founded in 1986 and headquartered in Newton, Massachusetts. The firm focuses on investing in early-stage companies across various sectors, including biotechnology, consumer electronics, hardware, artificial intelligence, and fintech. Morningside is known for its long-term investment outlook and commitment to supporting innovative and impactful ventures. Notable investments in Morningside's portfolio include Cognoa, Sensel, The Nue Co., Homee, and Prescryptive Health. These investments highlight Morningside's focus on cutting-edge technology and healthcare solutions. The firm has made over 190 investments and has seen more than 30 successful exits, demonstrating its effectiveness in nurturing high-growth companies. Morningside operates globally, with significant investments in the United States and China, and has a diversified portfolio that includes companies like Evonetix in the biotech sector and Wiseconn in agtech. The firm is active in both seed and later-stage investments, providing substantial capital and strategic support to its portfolio companies.

Newton Biocapital is a Brussels-based venture capital firm with a strong presence in both Europe and Japan, focusing exclusively on the life sciences sector. Established in 2017, the firm’s investment strategy is centered on supporting companies that tackle chronic diseases, with an emphasis on oncology, metabolic diseases, and neurological conditions. Newton Biocapital plays a hands-on role in its portfolio companies, often leading funding rounds and taking board positions to guide scientific and clinical strategies​. The firm manages two funds—Newton Biocapital I (€114M) and Newton Biocapital II, which is currently targeting €150M. NBC I invested in 14 companies across Europe and Japan, including university spin-offs like Epics Therapeutics and ChromaCure in Belgium, and biotech firms like EditForce in Japan. Newton's approach is deeply integrated with the local ecosystems in both regions, leveraging their strong ties to academic institutions, industry experts, and international investors to facilitate cross-border growth and exits​. Newton’s team combines scientific, regulatory, and investment expertise, led by CEO Alain Parthoens. With offices in Brussels and Tokyo, they are uniquely positioned to bridge the innovation pipeline between Europe and Japan, driving impactful advancements in life sciences​.

Nissay Capital, a venture capital firm based in Tokyo and wholly owned by Nippon Life Insurance Company, has a rich history of investments across various stages and sectors. With over 1,200 unlisted companies and 226 IPOs since its inception in 1991, the firm is a significant player in Japan's venture capital landscape. Notable investments include Heartseed, a biotech company, SkyDisc, and LaFabric. They focus on early to growth-stage businesses, with investments ranging from $4M to $740M. Nissay Capital's strategy emphasizes leveraging the vast network of Nippon Life Insurance to support portfolio companies, providing extensive guidance on management strategies and capital policies. They prefer investing in innovative startups that align with their long-term vision of contributing to society, particularly in technology and healthcare sectors. The firm typically co-invests with other major players like Mitsubishi UFJ Capital and CyberAgent Capital, fostering a collaborative investment environment. Key team members include Eiji Arima, the President and CEO, who plays a pivotal role in steering the firm's strategic direction. Nissay Capital prefers entrepreneurs to approach them through well-researched pitches that clearly articulate the market opportunity and technological innovation. Active and involved, they are seen as a hands-on investor committed to the growth and success of their investees

OrbiMed is a leading healthcare-focused investment firm based in New York City, established in 1989. It manages over $18 billion in assets across various investment strategies, including public equity, private equity, and private credit/royalty investments. OrbiMed invests globally in companies spanning the healthcare sector, from biopharmaceuticals to medical devices and healthcare services. OrbiMed’s portfolio includes notable companies like Guardant Health, Adaptive Biotechnologies, and Apollomics, showcasing its strong presence in the biotech and medical device sectors. The firm is known for its ability to back innovative startups and has been instrumental in bringing over 60 new healthcare therapies to market​ ​. For startups and established companies looking to connect with OrbiMed, it is beneficial to demonstrate innovative healthcare solutions with strong potential for market impact. The firm typically leads investment rounds and provides significant strategic support to help companies grow into market leaders.

Oriza Ventures is a venture capital fund that focuses on early-stage technology investments, primarily in North America. Founded by seasoned entrepreneurs and investors, Oriza Ventures supports startups with disruptive technological pursuits and innovative business ideas. The firm's portfolio spans various industries, including artificial intelligence, big data, Internet of Things, consumer internet, and medical and health products. The team at Oriza Ventures includes founding partners John Yu, Alex Liang, and Yao Xiao, who bring extensive experience in venture capital and entrepreneurship. They leverage their backgrounds to provide strategic guidance and resources to their portfolio companies. Oriza Ventures' portfolio features a diverse range of companies such as Ayla Networks, an IoT platform for smart home appliances; Bolt, an online checkout platform; and InterVenn Biosciences, which uses AI-driven mass spectrometry for medical applications.

Panacea Venture is a global healthcare-focused venture capital fund with a strong track record in early-stage life sciences investments. Spun out of Kleiner Perkins, Panacea specializes in building innovative companies that target unmet medical needs, particularly in biotech, therapeutics, and medical devices. Their investment scope spans cell and gene therapies, diagnostics, and emerging technologies like AI-driven healthcare solutions. With a global reach, Panacea has offices in Shanghai, Boston, and Silicon Valley, leveraging its cross-border expertise to tap into transformative healthcare innovations across North America and Asia. The firm is highly active, leading early-stage rounds and often taking board seats, while its venture operator model allows them to incubate and actively manage portfolio companies. Notable portfolio names include groundbreaking companies in immunotherapy and gene editing, such as TriArm Therapeutics and Kindstar Global. Panacea’s investment approach focuses on deep due diligence and long-term partnerships. They seek companies with strong scientific foundations and scalable technologies, preferring founders with deep domain expertise. The fund’s managing partner, James Huang, along with a diverse team of venture partners, brings over 100 years of combined experience in both venture capital and life sciences industries. They continue to focus on early-stage growth, with an emphasis on hands-on involvement to drive value from inception to public market success.

Pegasus Tech Ventures, based in Silicon Valley, is a global venture capital firm managing over $2 billion in assets. Founded in 2011, Pegasus offers a unique Venture Capital-as-a-Service (VCaaS) model, partnering with large corporations to invest in emerging tech startups. This involves vetting investment opportunities, managing investments, and connecting startups to a network of over 30 international corporate partners to accelerate growth. Notable investments include high-profile companies such as SpaceX, Twitter, Airbnb, SoFi, DoorDash, and 23andMe. Pegasus' diverse portfolio spans sectors like consumer electronics, automotive, healthcare, AI, and fintech, reflecting its broad investment strategy. Recently, Pegasus launched a $100 million fund with Denka Company Limited, focusing on ICT, energy, healthcare, and sustainable living. This fund aims to invest in startups across the US, Europe, Israel, and Asia, enhancing Denka's growth and innovation efforts. Additionally, Pegasus founded and sponsors the Startup World Cup, one of the largest startup competitions globally, with a $1 million investment prize. This competition supports regional innovation ecosystems worldwide and connects them to Silicon Valley. Led by founder and CEO Anis Uzzaman, Pegasus leverages its extensive global network and deep tech expertise to drive corporate innovation and help emerging tech companies achieve industry leadership.

Princeville Capital is a global venture capital firm founded with a focus on investing in growth-stage technology companies. The firm has offices in key global hubs, including San Francisco, Berlin, and Hong Kong. Princeville Capital operates two main funds: Princeville Global, which invests in technology market leaders, and Princeville Climate Tech, which focuses on companies that leverage technology to address climate change challenges. Princeville Capital targets sectors such as enterprise SaaS, AI, fintech, digital health, e-commerce, and blockchain/web3. The firm's investment strategy emphasizes backing companies that are not only leaders in their fields but also have proven business models and are positioned for rapid growth. Princeville’s global reach allows them to apply best practices from various markets and support companies in expanding their operations internationally. The firm’s leadership team includes experienced professionals like Emmanuel DeSousa and Joaquin Rodriguez Torres, who bring a wealth of knowledge in capital markets and strategic growth. They provide strategic counsel and help portfolio companies with follow-on capital raises and IPO preparations, ensuring that they are well-positioned for long-term success.

Purple Orange Ventures (POV) is a Berlin-based, entrepreneur-led impact seed fund founded in 2012 by Gary Lin. Focused on leveraging science and technology, the fund is dedicated to solving some of the world’s most pressing challenges, specifically aiming to remove animals from the global food system and ensure sustainable food production. POV targets early-stage startups that are pioneering food-tech, agri-tech, and biotech innovations across the globe. POV invests primarily in pre-seed, seed, and Series A stages, with typical investments ranging from €100K to €1.5M. The fund backs mission-driven founders developing technologies in areas such as plant-based foods, lab-grown meat, and sustainable agriculture. Its portfolio includes companies like BLUU Seafood (lab-grown fish), Omni (plant-based pet food), and Change Foods (animal-free dairy). These startups are transforming the food industry by offering sustainable alternatives to traditional animal products. In addition to financial backing, Purple Orange Ventures provides its portfolio companies with business development support, operational expertise, and access to a network of industry experts to help accelerate growth and achieve market leadership. The firm’s mission reflects its commitment to creating a more sustainable, animal-free food ecosystem, positioning itself as a leader in the alternative protein and food technology sectors.

Puzzle Ventures is an early-stage venture capital firm focused on supporting innovative startups in the blockchain and Web3 space. Based in Berlin, Germany, the fund is particularly active in industries such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and infrastructure technologies. They invest primarily in pre-seed and seed-stage companies, with typical investment amounts ranging from €200k to €700k. The firm's portfolio includes companies like Offchain Labs (building Arbitrum for Ethereum scaling), Pudgy Penguins (a Web3 brand), and Scroll (a zkEVM scaling solution for Ethereum). Puzzle Ventures emphasizes the integration of sustainability into their investment decisions, aligning with the EU’s Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR). However, they currently do not consider the adverse sustainability impacts in their investment process but are committed to reviewing this annually as the regulatory landscape evolves. Puzzle Ventures is led by Gloria Baeuerlein, and their strategic approach includes partnering with other VCs and engaging closely with their portfolio companies to drive long-term growth and innovation in the rapidly evolving blockchain sector.

Qiming Venture Partners, founded in 2006, is a leading venture capital firm with a strong focus on investments in the technology, consumer, and healthcare sectors. The firm operates with a significant presence in China and the United States, managing over $9.5 billion in capital across 18 funds. Qiming has an impressive portfolio of successful investments, including prominent companies such as Xiaomi, Bilibili, Meituan, and Mindray. These companies highlight Qiming's ability to identify and support high-potential startups that grow into industry leaders. The firm typically invests in early and growth-stage companies, emphasizing sectors like internet and consumer products, healthcare, and technology​​. The investment strategy at Qiming is comprehensive, often providing extensive support to portfolio companies through strategic guidance and leveraging a vast network. Key team members, like Bonnie Wang, focus on internet and consumer investments and have been recognized for their contributions to the venture capital industry​​. With a commitment to fostering innovation and growth, Qiming Venture Partners continues to play a crucial role in the global venture capital landscape, especially within the dynamic markets of China and the U.S.

Qualcomm Ventures, founded in 2000, is the corporate venture capital arm of Qualcomm Incorporated, headquartered in San Diego, California. The firm focuses on investing in early to growth-stage companies in sectors such as artificial intelligence (AI), automotive, mobile, enterprise and cloud, and smart systems. It supports startups with strategic guidance, leveraging Qualcomm’s extensive technological expertise and global network. Notable investments from Qualcomm Ventures include companies like Cloudflare, Xiaomi, Zoom, and SentinelOne. These companies have achieved significant milestones, including successful IPOs and high-profile acquisitions. For instance, SentinelOne went public in June 2021, and Zoom became a key player in cloud video conferencing and communication services. Qualcomm Ventures manages over $2 billion in assets and has a portfolio of more than 360 companies, with 22 unicorns and 19 companies that have gone public. The firm is also active in fostering innovation through specific funds like the Qualcomm Ventures AI Fund and the 5G Ecosystem Fund, which target emerging technologies in AI, machine learning, and 5G solutions. The investment team is composed of experienced professionals located in various global regions, including the US, China, and Israel, ensuring a broad and strategic reach to identify and support high-potential startups worldwide​.

Real Tech Fund, established in 2015 and headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, is a venture capital firm focusing on seed and early-stage investments in deep tech companies. The fund primarily targets sectors such as high tech, aerospace, AI, life sciences, and IoT. Real Tech Fund is known for its strategic partnerships with organizations like the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry, and NEDO (New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization), aiming to solve critical societal and environmental issues through innovation. The fund's notable investments include companies like ArkEdge Space, which focuses on satellite communication and space travel, and Integriculture, an agricultural technology firm. Real Tech Fund has invested heavily in Japan, but also extends its reach to other regions, including Southeast Asia. The firm has an average investment round size of $4 million and typically leads or co-invests in 8-10 deals per year. The team at Real Tech Fund comprises experienced partners such as Mitsuru Izumo and Jonathan Hannam, who bring a wealth of expertise in various tech and investment domains. Real Tech Fund's investment approach emphasizes supporting companies that leverage advanced technology to create impactful solutions for society​.

Redpoint Ventures, a prominent venture capital firm founded in 1999, is known for backing innovative startups across various stages, from seed to growth. The firm has made significant investments in leading tech companies like Netflix, Stripe, Snowflake, and Twilio, reflecting its focus on high-potential ventures in consumer, enterprise, and emerging technologies​​. Redpoint's industry focus includes software services, cloud computing, fintech, healthcare, and next-gen media. Their strategy emphasizes early-stage investments, partnering with entrepreneurs to create new markets and redefine existing ones. With an average investment round size of around $1 million, Redpoint typically takes an active role in leading these rounds, offering not just capital but strategic support​​. Geographically, Redpoint Ventures operates mainly out of the United States but has a strong presence in China through Redpoint China Ventures, which focuses on consumer and frontier tech startups​. Key team members include Jeff Brody, who co-founded the firm, and Logan Bartlett, a General Partner known for his expertise in early-growth investments. Their team is based in Menlo Park, California, and they are deeply involved in guiding startups towards successful exits, as evidenced by their numerous high-profile IPOs and acquisitions​​. For startups aiming to catch Redpoint's attention, it’s crucial to present innovative, scalable solutions and a strong market potential. They prefer approaches that showcase clear strategic alignment with their investment focus areas and demonstrate the potential for substantial growth and market impact

Sailing Capital, founded in 2012 and headquartered in Hong Kong, is a private equity and venture capital firm with a focus on cross-border investments. The firm primarily invests in sectors such as healthcare, technology, consumer retail, and industrials. With a strong presence in China and internationally, Sailing Capital is known for backing innovative, high-growth companies across various stages, from late-stage venture to pre-IPO. Some of their notable portfolio companies include SenseTime, a leader in artificial intelligence and computer vision, and WeRide, a pioneer in autonomous driving technology. Sailing Capital has also invested in NeuroXess, a therapeutic device startup, and DMAI, which focuses on AI-driven healthcare and education solutions. Their investment strategy often includes co-investing alongside major players like Sequoia Capital and IDG Capital, particularly in China and the U.S. The firm is led by CEO Liang Tsui, with a team of experienced partners, including Catherine Fan and Ray Zhang, who bring extensive expertise in international finance and private equity. Sailing Capital's approach combines financial backing with strategic guidance, helping portfolio companies expand globally while leveraging cross-border opportunities​.

Salesforce Ventures, the corporate venture capital arm of Salesforce, has been actively investing in enterprise software companies since its founding in 2009. With headquarters in San Francisco, California, Salesforce Ventures has made over 890 investments across a variety of industries, emphasizing enterprise technology and cloud-based solutions​​. Notable investments include companies like Airtable, Databricks, DocuSign, Guild Education, monday.com, Snowflake, Snyk, Stripe, and Zoom. These investments highlight Salesforce Ventures' focus on backing innovative startups that transform how businesses operate and connect with their customers​​. Salesforce Ventures operates a structured investment approach, including the Salesforce Ventures Impact Fund, which supports companies driving social and environmental impact. This fund has invested in companies such as Arcadia, Rheaply, and Circulor, contributing significantly to climate tech and other critical sectors​​. The firm supports its portfolio companies with resources beyond capital, including strategic guidance, access to Salesforce's vast network, and operational support to help them scale. Key team members like John Somorjai, Khushboo Patel, and Paul Drews lead these efforts, ensuring that the companies they back can leverage Salesforce’s extensive ecosystem to grow and succeed​. For entrepreneurs, an investment from Salesforce Ventures signals strong confidence and provides substantial backing to build companies that can make a significant impact on the global market.

Salesforce, a global leader in customer relationship management, leverages its platform to help businesses connect with customers in new and innovative ways. Notable projects and investments reflect Salesforce's commitment to technological advancement and social impact. Salesforce Ventures, the company's investment arm, has supported over 400 companies since 2009, including high-profile startups like Airtable, Databricks, DocuSign, and Zoom. These investments span various sectors such as AI, cloud computing, and enterprise software, aligning with Salesforce's strategic goals of driving innovation and digital transformation. In terms of notable projects, Salesforce is investing heavily in AI and sustainability. The company recently opened its first AI research center in London, part of a $4 billion investment in AI innovation in the UK. This center focuses on developing cutting-edge AI technologies to enhance Salesforce's offerings and drive forward the next generation of AI-driven CRM solutions. Salesforce's Impact Fund, managed by Salesforce Ventures, invests in companies creating social and environmental impact. Focus areas include education, workforce development, climate, diversity, and digital health. Noteworthy investments from this fund include companies like Guild Education, which improves access to education and career opportunities, and WeaveGrid, which supports the transition to electric vehicles and clean energy. Salesforce's commitment to customer success is exemplified through various case studies. For instance, Heathrow Airport increased digital revenue by 30% through personalized marketing strategies powered by Salesforce, and General Mills tripled consumer engagement using data analytics and AI to tailor their marketing campaigns.

Scrum Ventures is an early-stage venture capital firm founded in 2013, with headquarters in San Francisco and Tokyo. The firm has a robust portfolio of over 120 investments, focusing on sectors such as mobility, fintech, IoT, VR, commerce, and healthcare. Notable investments include companies like May Mobility, Kidaptive, and ExaWizards. The firm takes a thematic approach to investing, identifying emerging trends and supporting startups with capital, strategic advice, and access to a global network of corporate partners, particularly in Japan. Scrum Ventures has successfully leveraged its strong ties with Japanese corporations like Panasonic and Fujitsu to provide startups with opportunities for growth and innovation​. Led by founder Tak Miyata, Scrum Ventures emphasizes collaboration and co-innovation, offering startups not only financial backing but also direct assistance with hiring, fundraising, and market entry strategies. Their hands-on approach and extensive network make them a valuable partner for early-stage companies looking to scale globally. For startups, approaching Scrum Ventures with a clear value proposition and a strong potential for international expansion, particularly in the Japanese market, can be highly beneficial​.

Sinovation Ventures, founded in 2009 by Dr. Kai-Fu Lee, is a leading Chinese venture capital firm specializing in early to growth-stage investments. The firm focuses on sectors such as artificial intelligence, robotics, automation, semiconductors, and healthcare technology. With a presence in both China and the United States, Sinovation Ventures has raised over $3 billion across multiple funds. Notable investments by Sinovation Ventures include companies such as Niu Technologies, Planetary Resources, Securly, TuSimple, VIPKid, WeRide, Wonder Workshop, and Zhihu. These investments highlight the firm's commitment to backing innovative companies that leverage advanced technologies to address significant market opportunities and challenges. Sinovation Ventures has a strong track record of successful exits, including the public listing of Zhihu, China's leading question-and-answer platform, and the acquisitions of companies like Securly and TuSimple, an autonomous trucking technology company. The firm is currently targeting $500 million for its fifth fund, having already completed a first close of $200 million. This new fund continues to focus on AI and other advanced technologies, aiming to drive significant advancements and commercial success in these fields​.

SMBC Venture Capital, established in 2005, is the corporate venture capital arm of Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC), headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. The firm focuses on early to growth-stage investments across a diverse range of industries, including technology, healthcare, financial services, and mobility solutions. With a portfolio of over 656 investments and significant co-investment partnerships, SMBC Venture Capital plays a vital role in fostering innovation within Japan's startup ecosystem. Notable recent investments include companies like SmartNews, which became a unicorn in 2019, and Luup, a micromobility service that provides essential transport solutions across Japan. SMBC Venture Capital's strategic approach combines rigorous risk assessment with a willingness to support promising startups even in their nascent stages. This flexibility and foresight have enabled the firm to back companies that address critical market needs and have the potential for significant growth​. The firm is led by a team of seasoned professionals, including President Tomofumi Saeki and Deputy General Manager Naoki Fujita, who bring extensive experience in investment strategy and corporate finance. SMBC Venture Capital's strong alignment with its parent company's resources and network allows it to provide substantial operational support and strategic guidance to its portfolio companies, facilitating their growth and success in both domestic and international markets.

Sony Innovation Fund is the corporate venture capital arm of Sony Group, established in 2016. SIF invests in early-stage startups with a focus on transformational technologies that shape the future of business, entertainment, and society. The fund operates globally, with offices in the U.S., Japan, EU, Israel, and India, managing over $250 million in assets. SIF targets a wide range of sectors including entertainment, fintech, healthcare, IoT, mobility, deep tech, and sensor technologies. They support startups by providing not only capital but also access to Sony’s extensive technical expertise, global network, and R&D capabilities. This strategic support helps startups scale and innovate within their industries. The fund's portfolio includes companies like Arkose Labs, which focuses on AI/ML for trust and safety, and Truepic, which works on digital content authentication. SIF also places significant emphasis on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) issues, integrating these considerations into their investment process to create long-term value. The leadership team features experienced professionals like Gen Tsuchikawa, Chairman of Sony Ventures Corporation, and Austin Noronha, Managing Director in the U.S., who drive the fund’s strategic vision and operations. SIF continues to explore and invest in innovative technologies that align with Sony’s mission of bringing creativity and promising innovations to a connected world.

Sora Ventures, founded in 2018 and headquartered in Taipei, Taiwan, is a leading venture capital firm in Asia focusing on blockchain and digital asset investments. The firm aims to bridge the gap between the blockchain community and the traditional business world by providing both capital and strategic support to innovative startups. Sora Ventures primarily invests in early to mid-stage companies, with a focus on Web3, Fintech, and cryptocurrency technologies. Their portfolio includes notable investments in blockchain-focused startups like Satflow and BRC20, with a total of 73 investments to date. Sora Ventures is known for being deeply involved in the ecosystem, offering more than just funding—they help companies scale and navigate the complexities of transitioning blockchain projects into real-world applications. Sora Ventures typically participates in Series B rounds, investing across the Asian and global markets. With a commitment to fostering innovation in the digital asset space, the firm plays a key role in the development of the blockchain sector, making it a prominent player in the industry. Co-investing with other top blockchain venture funds, Sora Ventures has positioned itself as a strategic partner for startups aiming to grow and expand in this rapidly evolving industry. The firm’s managing partner, Jason Fang, leads the investment team from their base in Taipei, further emphasizing their strong regional focus while maintaining a global investment outlook.

SparkLabs Global Ventures is a seed-stage venture capital fund founded in 2013, focusing on early-stage investments in companies worldwide. The firm is headquartered in Palo Alto, California, but its global footprint extends to key markets across Asia, Europe, and the U.S. SparkLabs backs innovative companies in industries such as SaaS, fintech, healthcare, gaming, IoT, education, and cybersecurity. The firm’s investment strategy centers on identifying exceptional entrepreneurs and helping them scale their businesses globally, offering not only financial support but also mentorship and access to a broad network of industry leaders. Some of the notable portfolio companies backed by SparkLabs Global Ventures include MangoPlate, WeRide, and Shift, demonstrating the firm's diverse reach across various sectors and geographies. SparkLabs emphasizes its unique approach to seed-stage investments by focusing on companies with the potential to define new categories and by supporting their growth into global markets. Led by a team of seasoned investors and operators, including co-founders Frank Meehan, Bernard Moon, and Jimmy Kim, SparkLabs Global Ventures combines deep industry expertise with a commitment to nurturing long-term relationships with its portfolio companies. Through their global accelerator programs and seed investments, SparkLabs has built a strong reputation for fostering innovation and helping startups achieve meaningful scale.

SparkLabs Taipei is an accelerator and venture capital fund part of the global SparkLabs Group network, founded to help startups grow and succeed on an international scale. Launched in 2018, SparkLabs Taipei has invested in and accelerated over 60 startups, including notable successes like Just Kitchen and ParseMe. The accelerator runs a rigorous 3-month program twice a year, providing early-stage startups with 1:1 coaching, access to world-class mentors, business opportunities, and a platform to connect with investors through Taiwan's largest Demo Day. The program emphasizes a "Global From Day One" philosophy, preparing startups to scale internationally from the outset. Startups receive support in areas such as investor engagement, pitch crafting, public speaking, and media relations to ensure they are well-prepared for global markets and investor meetings. SparkLabs Taipei also collaborates with corporations to run internal or external accelerator programs, offering innovative solutions for corporate challenges and digital transformation. Their extensive network and strategic partnerships provide startups with the resources needed for product development, management, and market expansion. The accelerator has a high follow-on investment rate, with over 80% of their startups securing subsequent funding.

Strong Ventures, based in California, is a seed fund that focuses on Korean, Asian, and global entrepreneurs. Known for investments in startups like Toss, Memebox, and Lunit, it has a significant presence in fintech, consumer tech, and healthcare sectors. The fund targets early-stage companies with scalable ideas, particularly in South Korea and Asia, providing both capital and strategic support. Their investment strategy emphasizes hands-on mentorship, guiding startups from inception to global expansion. They often lead seed rounds and support their portfolio companies with market entry strategies and follow-on funding. Strong Ventures values innovative business models and visionary leadership, preferring direct approaches through their network or website for personalized pitches. Key team members include co-founders John Nahm and Kihong Bae, who have extensive venture capital and entrepreneurial experience. While based in California, they maintain strong ties to Asian markets, enhancing cross-border growth opportunities for their investments. Strong Ventures is dedicated to fostering cross-border ventures, making them an ideal partner for startups aiming for global reach​.

TRIREC is a Singapore-based venture capital firm that focuses on decarbonization investments, aiming to combat climate change through technology-driven solutions. Founded in 2015 by Melvyn Yeo and Lawrence Wu, the firm has grown into a key player in climate-focused venture capital, with around $150 million in assets under management. TRIREC targets early-stage companies that are leading the way in decarbonization across five core sectors: food and agriculture, mobility, buildings, industries, and energy. The firm's investment strategy is focused on supporting breakthrough technologies that either reduce, prevent, or sequester greenhouse gas emissions. They have backed over 20 companies globally, including notable startups like Aether Diamonds (which creates diamonds from carbon in the air), Green Li-ion (pioneering battery rejuvenation), and Xpansiv (a global exchange for ESG commodities). TRIREC primarily invests in Pre-Series A to Series B rounds and tends to take a minority stake in their portfolio companies, fostering long-term partnerships. They emphasize both financial returns and positive environmental impact, positioning themselves as leaders in the rapidly expanding decarbonization sector​.

UOB Venture Management (UOBVM), a subsidiary of United Overseas Bank (UOB), was established in 1992 and focuses on venture capital and private equity investments, primarily in Southeast Asia, Greater China, and the United States. The firm targets growth-stage companies across various sectors, including healthcare, advanced manufacturing, consumer services, and digital economy ventures. UOBVM is known for integrating ESG principles and impact investing into its strategy, as demonstrated by its Asia Impact Investment Fund series. UOBVM has a significant portfolio with over 164 investments, and some notable exits include Gojek and Nanosys. They emphasize supporting businesses that contribute to sustainable development and innovation, particularly those improving livelihoods in the region. The firm manages several funds, including the ASEAN China Investment Fund and Asia Impact Investment Fund II, which raised over $60 million for initiatives in underserved markets​. The firm's leadership includes CEO Kian-Wee Seah, with key members like Mark Yeo and Jean Thoh, all based in Singapore, where the company is headquartered.

Vertex Ventures is a global network of venture capital funds with a focus on early-stage investments across various innovation hubs, including China, Israel, Southeast Asia, India, the US, and Japan. Vertex Ventures Japan (VVJ), the newest addition, recently launched its inaugural JPY 10 billion ($64 million) fund, Vertex Ventures Japan Fund I (VVJFI). This fund is dedicated to investing in early-stage Japanese startups with high growth potential, particularly in sectors such as deep tech, digital transformation (DX), artificial intelligence (AI), and the creator economy​. VVJ leverages the extensive global network of Vertex Holdings, which manages over $6 billion in assets and provides strategic support and operational assistance to its portfolio companies. This network allows VVJ to offer Japanese startups access to global markets and resources, fostering innovation and technological advancement​. The fund is led by Managing Partner Takashi Tomita and General Partner Tomohiro Miyasaka, who are responsible for identifying new investment opportunities and driving strategic growth. Vertex Ventures Japan also collaborates with the University of Tokyo and the Japanese government to enhance the startup ecosystem through cross-border partnerships between industry, academia, and government.

Wi Venture, now known as Kopa Ventures, is a German-based venture capital firm focused on early-stage climate tech startups. Founded by Matthias Willenbacher in 2017, the fund is committed to fostering sustainability through investments in sectors like renewable energy, mobility, carbon capture, and agriculture. Their notable portfolio includes impactful companies like Sono Motors, Tomorrow Bank, and 1komma5°—startups pioneering in solar-powered vehicles, green banking, and energy efficiency solutions. Geographically, Wi Venture primarily targets the DACH region (Germany, Austria, Switzerland) but maintains a strong European focus. Their investment strategy prioritizes early-stage ventures (pre-seed to Series A), aiming for high-impact solutions that contribute to a climate-positive future. With an average check size of $1-10M, the fund often co-invests and occasionally leads rounds. They emphasize founder collaboration and a hands-on approach, offering support in finance, HR, marketing, and growth strategy. The team at Wi Venture includes experienced entrepreneurs, ensuring a deep understanding of the challenges faced by founders. They prefer to be approached by startups with concise, high-impact pitches and stress the importance of resilience and scalability. As investors, they value long-term partnerships and are committed to supporting their portfolio companies, even through challenging times​.