Discover if this is a suitable investor for your startup. If they are we'll make a warm introduction for free. Otherwise, we'll connect you with matching investors.
Darwin Venture Management (達盈管顧) is a venture capital firm founded in 2009 by Simon Fang and Yaoting Wang, both PhD graduates from Stanford University. Headquartered in Taipei, Taiwan, the firm also operates offices in Hsinchu, Taiwan, and the United States, specifically in Silicon Valley. Darwin has established itself as a significant player in the Taiwanese venture capital ecosystem, managing a total of 10 funds across various stages, including angel, seed, Series A, Series B, and late-stage investments.
The firm has a strong focus on cross-border investments, particularly connecting Taiwanese startups with opportunities in Silicon Valley. This strategic positioning allows Darwin to leverage its extensive network and expertise in sectors such as biotechnology, semiconductors, and software. Over the years, Darwin has built a reputation for identifying high-potential startups, with a portfolio that includes 69 companies and a notable track record of successful exits.
Darwin Venture Management primarily invests in seed, Series A, and Series B rounds, with a particular emphasis on late-stage investments. The firm engages in seed funding through its evergreen angel fund, which was launched in 2022 to support early-stage startups emerging from Taiwan's academic and research institutions. The investment strategy is focused on sectors including biotechnology, healthcare, consumer goods, semiconductors, and software.
The firm targets 5-7 deals annually, with plans to increase this to 20 deals in Japan within the next 3-4 years. Darwin's investment thesis emphasizes cross-border deal flow between Taiwan and Silicon Valley, seeking startups that demonstrate strong intellectual property strategies and exit-backward planning. The firm values founders with a solid academic background and innovative ideas, particularly those that can leverage Taiwan's technological strengths.
Darwin Venture Management has a diverse portfolio of 69 companies, showcasing its ability to identify and nurture high-potential startups across various sectors. Notable portfolio companies include:
Darwin has successfully facilitated 1 unicorn and 10-11 IPOs within its portfolio, demonstrating its effectiveness in identifying companies with high growth potential. The firm also has a history of co-investing with established partners, such as the Alibaba Entrepreneurs Fund, which enhances the resources available to its startups.
Simon Fang - Co-founder. Simon holds a PhD from Stanford University and has a background in semiconductor engineering. He has co-angel invested in over 20 companies prior to founding Darwin.
Yaoting Wang - Co-founder. Yaoting also holds a PhD from Stanford University and shares a semiconductor engineering background with Simon. Together, they have a strong track record in deep tech investments.
Kay Lin - Managing Partner. Kay joined Darwin in November 2014 and has a background as a former software engineer at IBM and an executive at HTC. She is also a co-founder of Ubitus, bringing expertise in enterprise software and gaming/cloud technologies.
To pitch Darwin Venture Management, founders should send an email to info@darwinventures.com with a comprehensive pitch deck. The deck should include details about the business model, market analysis, competitive landscape, and team qualifications. The firm prefers well-structured presentations that clearly communicate the startup's value proposition.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect feedback within a few weeks. Warm introductions through mutual connections are encouraged to enhance the chances of a successful pitch.
In 2024, Darwin Venture Management led a $1M seed investment in Fansi, co-led with Headwater Capital. This investment highlights the firm's ongoing commitment to supporting innovative startups in their early stages.
Additionally, Darwin has been recognized in various profiles, including being listed among the top biotech VCs in Taiwan by Shizune in January 2026. The firm continues to expand its influence in the venture capital landscape, particularly in the Taiwan-Japan corridor.
What are Darwin Venture Management's investment criteria?
Darwin focuses on seed, Series A, and Series B investments, primarily in biotechnology, healthcare, consumer goods, semiconductors, and software sectors. The firm looks for startups with strong intellectual property strategies and innovative solutions, particularly those emerging from Taiwan's academic institutions.
How can I pitch to Darwin Venture Management?
Founders can reach out via email at info@darwinventures.com. It is recommended to include a detailed pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and team background. The firm values clear communication and a well-structured presentation.
What makes Darwin Venture Management different from other VCs?
Darwin's unique focus on cross-border investments between Taiwan and Silicon Valley sets it apart. The firm leverages its extensive network and expertise in both regions to provide strategic guidance and market access to its portfolio companies.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not publicly disclosed, Darwin typically invests in the range of seed to late-stage funding, aligning with its focus on Series A and B rounds.
What is the firm's post-investment involvement like?
Darwin Venture Management actively supports its portfolio companies through strategic guidance, operational support, and access to its extensive network. The firm often co-invests with established partners to enhance resources available to startups.
What is the firm's decision-making process?
Investment decisions at Darwin require unanimous approval from all partners, ensuring a collaborative approach to selecting portfolio companies.
All trademarks, logos and brand names are the property of their respective owners. All company, product and service names used in this website are for identification purposes only. Use of these names, trademarks, and brands does not imply endorsement.