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DG Daiwa Ventures Inc. is a Tokyo-based corporate venture capital firm established on July 1, 2016, through a joint venture between Digital Garage, Inc. and Daiwa Securities Group, Inc. The firm specializes in investing in startups that leverage next-generation technologies, focusing on innovation and growth. Currently, DG Daiwa Ventures manages three funds with a total assets under management (AUM) exceeding $200 million. The firm has made over 144 investments globally, primarily targeting early-stage companies.
Headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, DG Daiwa Ventures operates with a global mandate, investing in startups across Asia, the Americas, and Europe. The firm has established a strong reputation for its strategic focus on technology-driven sectors, including AI, fintech, healthcare, and climate technology. Notable milestones include the successful exits of portfolio companies such as Curv Inc., which was acquired by PayPal Holdings, Inc.
DG Daiwa Ventures targets investments in a diverse range of sectors, including AI, fintech, healthcare, consumer services, SaaS, and climate technology. The firm focuses on early-stage investments, ranging from seed through Series A and B, while also participating in later-stage follow-ons. This approach allows DG Daiwa Ventures to support startups at various stages of their growth journey.
The firm operates with a unique investment thesis that emphasizes the integration of next-generation technologies across its target sectors. DG Daiwa Ventures seeks startups that demonstrate high growth potential and innovative solutions to contemporary challenges. The firm’s collaboration with DG Lab, an open innovation R&D organization within Digital Garage, enhances its ability to identify and support groundbreaking startups.
DG Daiwa Ventures has built a diverse portfolio of 144 companies, showcasing its commitment to investing in innovative startups. Notable portfolio companies include:
This portfolio reflects DG Daiwa Ventures' strategic focus on technology-driven sectors and its commitment to supporting startups that leverage next-generation technologies.
Junichi Nakajima: Representative Director with extensive experience in venture capital and technology investments.
Katsuyasu Murata: Representative Director, known for his expertise in financial services and startup growth.
Genki Mizokuchi: Board Director with a background in technology and investment management.
Saneyuki Numata: Board Director, specializing in corporate strategy and venture investments.
Yasuyuki Rokuyata: Auditor with experience in compliance and financial oversight.
Kon Yoh: Auditor, focusing on regulatory compliance and risk management.
Yamato Watanabe: Managing Director with a strong track record in venture capital.
Yuta Sanada: Senior Director, experienced in technology investments and startup support.
Makoto Ibi: Senior Director with expertise in market analysis and investment strategy.
Miki Okubo: Director, focusing on portfolio management and operational support.
Danny Cwak: Principal with a background in fintech and startup ecosystems.
Makito Masuyama: Principal, specializing in technology-driven investments.
Teppei Ando: Principal with experience in early-stage investments.
Kenji Makiguchi: Vice President, focusing on strategic partnerships and growth initiatives.
Jaesoon Kim: Senior Associate with expertise in market research and analysis.
Kota Shindo: Senior Associate, specializing in technology and innovation.
Arisa Makihara: Senior Associate & Community Manager, focusing on community engagement and support.
Ryutaro Nojima: Venture Partner with extensive experience in venture capital.
Shunichi Kimuro: Venture Partner, specializing in technology investments.
Kurumi Takahashi: Venture Partner with a focus on startup growth strategies.
Keerthi Suresh: Venture Fellow, supporting early-stage startups.
To pitch DG Daiwa Ventures, startups should submit their pitch decks through the designated URL: dg-daiwa-v.com/pitch. The firm prefers comprehensive presentations that clearly outline the business model, market potential, and technology. Response times may vary, but founders can expect feedback within a few weeks. Warm introductions are beneficial but not mandatory.
In 2023, DG Daiwa Ventures participated in the acquisition of Curv Inc. by PayPal Holdings, marking a significant exit for the firm. This acquisition highlights the firm's focus on investing in high-potential technology startups.
Additionally, DG Daiwa Ventures has been actively investing in various sectors, including fintech and AI, as part of its strategy to support innovative solutions that address contemporary challenges. The firm was selected for the NVIDIA GTC 2026 VC Reverse Pitch presentation, showcasing its commitment to fostering technological advancements.
What are DG Daiwa Ventures' investment criteria?
DG Daiwa Ventures invests in early-stage startups across various sectors, including AI, fintech, healthcare, and climate technology. The firm looks for companies that leverage next-generation technologies and demonstrate high growth potential.
How can startups apply or pitch to DG Daiwa Ventures?
Startups can submit their pitch decks through the firm's dedicated pitch URL: dg-daiwa-v.com/pitch. The firm encourages detailed presentations that highlight the startup's technology, market potential, and team.
What makes DG Daiwa Ventures different from other venture capital firms?
DG Daiwa Ventures combines the financial expertise of Daiwa Securities with the technological ecosystem of Digital Garage. This unique partnership allows the firm to provide strategic guidance and access to resources that enhance the growth of its portfolio companies.
What is the geographic scope of DG Daiwa Ventures' investments?
The firm operates with a global mandate, focusing primarily on Asia, particularly Japan, while also investing in startups across the Americas and Europe.
What is the typical check size for investments?
DG Daiwa Ventures typically invests in early-stage companies, with check sizes varying based on the stage and needs of the startup. The firm participates in seed through Series A and B rounds.
What kind of post-investment involvement does DG Daiwa Ventures have?
DG Daiwa Ventures actively supports its portfolio companies through strategic guidance, access to industry connections, and resources from its corporate parents, Digital Garage and Daiwa Securities.
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