GMO Venture Partners

GMO Venture Partners is a venture capital firm under the GMO Internet Group, specializing in early to growth-stage investments with a focus on technology and fintech sectors. Established in Japan, the firm has expanded its presence globally, with significant activities in Asia and the United States. GMO Venture Partners manages several funds, including the GMO Fintech Fund 7, established in 2021 with JPY 13.3 billion ($121 million), and the GMO Global Payment Fund. The firm has invested in over 210 companies, boasting 18 IPOs and 11 unicorns in its portfolio, such as Kredivo Holdings and Coda Payments. The firm’s investment strategy includes backing innovative startups in sectors like technology infrastructure, AI, IoT, and fintech. They typically participate in Seed to Series C rounds, often co-investing with other leading venture firms. Notable public companies in their portfolio include Mercari and ChatWork, and they have had successful exits with companies like Cloud Credit and bitFlyer. The team at GMO Venture Partners includes experienced professionals such as Erik Ford, US Venture Partner, and Ryu Muramatsu, Founding Partner. The team brings over 40 years of operational and 50 years of investment experience, focusing on supporting and scaling high-potential startups.