Shima Capital

Shima Capital is an early-stage venture capital firm founded in 2021 by Yida Gao. Based in San Francisco, Shima Capital focuses on investing in disruptive blockchain and Web3 companies. The firm operates with a hands-on approach, providing not just capital but also strategic guidance, technical support, and community building to its portfolio companies. Shima Capital's inaugural fund, Shima Capital Fund I, raised $200 million, with notable investors including Bill Ackman, Dragonfly Capital, and Animoca Brands. The fund invests in the earliest stages of blockchain startups, typically deploying between $500,000 and $2,000,000 per investment. Key areas of focus include decentralized finance (DeFi), gaming and metaverse, decentralized infrastructure, and next-generation blockchain technologies like Layer 1/2 solutions and zero-knowledge proofs. The firm distinguishes itself by offering extensive support to its portfolio companies, helping with talent acquisition, technical research, and development, as well as narrative amplification. Shima Capital's team comprises experienced investors and operators, including Carl Hua, Alex Lin, and Chris Adams, who bring significant expertise from top technology and venture firms.