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DEFTA Partners is a veteran venture investment organization founded in 1985, with headquarters in San Francisco and additional offices in Tokyo and Hong Kong. The firm has a long history of backing over 100 companies across various sectors, particularly in healthcare, biotechnology, and information and communication technology (ICT). DEFTA Partners is recognized for its commitment to identifying and nurturing innovative technologies that drive sustainable growth, especially in developing regions.
Over the decades, DEFTA Partners has established itself as one of the earlier US-Asia focused venture capital firms. The firm closed a $62 million fund in 2019, which is primarily focused on healthcare technology. DEFTA Partners has a significant presence in North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, reflecting its global investment strategy. The firm has been instrumental in the growth of many pioneering companies, contributing to advancements in various fields.
DEFTA Partners primarily invests in the healthcare and information and communication technology (ICT) sectors. In healthcare, the firm focuses on advanced therapeutics, health ICT, and enabling technologies. The ICT investments emphasize pervasive ubiquitous communications (PUC), influencing investments in embedded devices, digital TV, and online security. DEFTA Partners adopts a global investment strategy, targeting opportunities across North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
The firm seeks early-stage investments, particularly in seed, Series A, and Series B rounds. DEFTA Partners looks for innovative technologies that can drive sustainable growth, especially in developing regions. Their investment thesis emphasizes cross-border US-Asia commercialization, aiming to leverage opportunities in both established and emerging markets.
DEFTA Partners has a diverse portfolio of over 100 companies, with notable investments including:
These companies reflect DEFTA Partners' focus on innovative technologies in healthcare and ICT, showcasing their commitment to supporting advancements in these critical sectors.
George Hara: Group Chairman & CEO, with extensive experience in venture capital and a background in technology commercialization.
Satoshi Tsubotani: General Manager of Business Development, DEFTA Capital, specializing in strategic partnerships and market expansion.
Takeo Sako: Deputy General Manager of Business Development, DEFTA Capital, focused on identifying new investment opportunities.
Kyoko Watanabe: Managing Director, DEFTA Corporation, with expertise in operational management and investment strategy.
Baldev Madahar: CFO, DEFTA Corporation, responsible for financial oversight and fund management.
Masahide (Masa) Isono: Principal, DEFTA Corporation, with a focus on portfolio management and strategic guidance.
Susumu Kaminaga: Board Director, DEFTA Capital, providing governance and oversight for portfolio companies.
Mikio Tanji: Executive Officer, DEFTA Capital, involved in business development and investment analysis.
May Takahashi: Investment & Business Development Manager, DEFTA Corporation, focusing on deal sourcing and market research.
Yoshiko Kumachi-Takaike: Director of the Board, DEFTA Capital, with a background in corporate governance and strategic planning.
Yoshiyuki Katsuragi: Director of Business Development, DEFTA Capital, specializing in cross-border investments and partnerships.
To pitch DEFTA Partners, founders should visit their website at deftapartners.com. It is recommended to include a comprehensive pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and technology details. Founders should expect a response time of several weeks, as the firm carefully evaluates each proposal. Warm introductions are preferred, as they can facilitate a more favorable review process.
In 2019, DEFTA Partners closed a $62 million fund focused on healthcare technology, marking a significant milestone in their investment strategy. The firm continues to expand its portfolio, with over 100 companies backed since its inception in 1985. Notable exits include Fortinet, Viagene, and Isis Pharmaceuticals, showcasing the firm's successful track record in the venture capital space.
DEFTA Partners remains active in identifying and nurturing innovative technologies, particularly in healthcare and ICT, as they seek to support sustainable growth initiatives in developing regions.
What are DEFTA Partners' investment criteria?
DEFTA Partners primarily invests in early-stage companies within the healthcare and ICT sectors. They focus on advanced therapeutics, health ICT, and enabling technologies in healthcare, as well as pervasive ubiquitous communications (PUC) in ICT.
How can I apply or pitch to DEFTA Partners?
Founders can pitch to DEFTA Partners through their website at deftapartners.com. It is advisable to include a detailed business plan and information about the technology and market potential in the pitch deck.
What makes DEFTA Partners different from other VC firms?
DEFTA Partners has a unique focus on cross-border US-Asia commercialization, which allows them to leverage opportunities in both established and emerging markets. Their extensive network across the US and Asia provides valuable insights and support for portfolio companies.
What is the geographic scope of DEFTA Partners' investments?
The firm invests globally, with a focus on North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. They have a particular interest in developing regions, aiming to support sustainable growth initiatives.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not disclosed, DEFTA Partners typically invests in seed, Series A, and Series B rounds, which suggests a range that aligns with early-stage funding.
What kind of post-investment involvement does DEFTA Partners have?
DEFTA Partners adds value through strategic guidance and leveraging its extensive network. They focus on sustainable growth initiatives and provide critical insights for technology commercialization.
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