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Coral Capital is a venture capital firm based in Japan, founded in 2019 by James Riney and Yohei Sawayama after spinning out from 500 Startups Japan. The firm focuses on supporting entrepreneurs in building impactful companies across various sectors. Coral Capital manages approximately 60 billion yen (around $400 million) in assets under management (AUM) and has a strong emphasis on the Japanese startup ecosystem.
Since its inception, Coral Capital has evolved to become a key player in the venture capital landscape, with a fund size of $128 million for its third fund. The firm is dedicated to providing funding and resources to startups at various stages of development, from seed to Series D. Its office is located in Japan, and it actively engages with the startup community through events and thought leadership initiatives.
Coral Capital invests across a diverse range of sectors, including SaaS, fintech, healthtech, consumer services, robotics, and deep tech, such as fusion technology. The firm offers investments ranging from 50 million yen to 3 billion yen, which translates to approximately $500,000 to $5 million. This investment strategy allows Coral Capital to support startups at different stages of development, from seed to Series D funding.
Geographically, Coral Capital is open to startups targeting markets beyond Japan, including North America, Asia, and Europe. The firm seeks to partner with entrepreneurs who are building significant companies and aims to provide access to global capital and networking opportunities. Their investment thesis emphasizes the importance of fostering the next generation of global tech companies, particularly within Japan's startup ecosystem.
Coral Capital has invested in several notable companies, showcasing its diverse portfolio. Key portfolio companies include:
This portfolio reflects Coral Capital's commitment to investing in impactful companies across various sectors, with a particular focus on technology and innovation.
James Riney - Founding Partner & CEO. Riney previously led 500 Startups' Japan operations and is a prominent voice in the Japanese startup ecosystem. He hosts the 'Disrupting Japan' podcast and focuses on fostering innovation in Japan.
Yohei Sawayama - Founding Partner. Sawayama co-founded Coral Capital after his tenure at 500 Startups Japan, where he contributed to building the firm's presence in Japan.
Naoki Yoshida - Partner. Yoshida brings extensive experience in venture capital and has been instrumental in sourcing and evaluating investment opportunities.
Rie Yano - Partner. Yano has a strong background in finance and operations, contributing to the firm's strategic direction.
Tiffany Kayo - Principal. Kayo focuses on deal sourcing and portfolio management, leveraging her expertise in the startup ecosystem.
Haruna Katayama - Associate. Katayama supports the investment team in due diligence and market research.
Ryotaro Ishikawa - Head of DPI Operations. Ishikawa oversees the firm's operational processes and ensures efficient management of portfolio companies.
Kenichi Takahashi - Finance Manager. Takahashi manages the financial operations of Coral Capital, ensuring compliance and financial health.
Mizuki Nakamura - Senior Operations Associate. Nakamura assists in the operational aspects of the firm, focusing on portfolio support.
Iku Sakon - Fund Operations Associate. Sakon supports the fund management processes and investor relations.
Ayumi Iwamoto - Partner. Iwamoto brings expertise in market analysis and investment strategy.
Ryo Tsuda - VP of Ecosystem. Tsuda focuses on building relationships within the startup community and enhancing Coral Capital's presence.
Yohei Shirata - Talent Manager. Shirata is responsible for talent acquisition and management within the portfolio companies.
Satoru Masuda - Content Lead. Masuda oversees content creation and thought leadership initiatives.
Asami Saeki - Community Director. Saeki manages community engagement and outreach efforts.
To pitch to Coral Capital, founders should use their [contact form](https://coralcap.co/contact/). The pitch deck should include a clear overview of the business model, market analysis, and financial projections. Coral Capital appreciates detailed information about the founding team and their backgrounds.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are preferred, as they can facilitate a more favorable review process.
Coral Capital hosts the Startup Aquarium, an annual career fair designed for individuals interested in startup careers. This event features over 50 selected startups, more than 100 speakers, and attracts over 3,300 participants. It serves as a platform for networking and learning about opportunities within the startup ecosystem.
In August 2021, Coral Capital closed its third fund at $128 million, significantly increasing its assets under management to approximately 60 billion yen (around $400 million). This fund focuses on supporting startups across various stages, from seed to Series D.
Coral Capital has been actively engaging with the startup ecosystem through blog posts and research, including insights on Japan's hidden unicorns. They announced the upcoming 'Startup Aquarium 2026,' a major startup career fair aimed at fostering entrepreneurship and innovation in Japan.
What are Coral Capital's investment criteria?
Coral Capital invests in startups across various sectors, including SaaS, fintech, healthtech, consumer services, robotics, and deep tech. They focus on companies at different stages of development, from seed to Series D funding, and are particularly interested in startups targeting markets beyond Japan.
How can I apply or pitch to Coral Capital?
Founders can pitch to Coral Capital through their [contact form](https://coralcap.co/contact/). It is advisable to include a detailed business plan, financial projections, and information about the founding team in the pitch deck.
What makes Coral Capital different from other venture capital firms?
Coral Capital distinguishes itself by its deep focus on the Japanese startup ecosystem while also seeking opportunities in international markets. The firm provides extensive networking opportunities and insights into the Japanese market, which can be invaluable for startups looking to expand.
What is Coral Capital's geographic scope?
Coral Capital primarily focuses on the Japanese market but is also open to investments in North America, Asia, and Europe. This global perspective allows them to support startups with international ambitions.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Coral Capital typically invests between 50 million yen and 3 billion yen, which is approximately $500,000 to $5 million. They may also provide follow-on investments up to $20 million for existing portfolio companies.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Coral Capital have?
Coral Capital actively engages with its portfolio companies, providing access to global capital, networking opportunities, and insights into the Japanese market. They also participate in thought leadership initiatives within Japan's startup ecosystem.
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