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Dreamers VC is a Los Angeles-based venture capital firm founded in 2018. The firm specializes in early-stage investments, bridging established Japanese corporate investors with innovative US startups. Dreamers VC has a target fund size of $100 million and is backed by Nomura Holdings, a prominent Japanese financial services group. This partnership provides the firm with significant strategic capital and access to a global network.
Since its inception, Dreamers VC has focused on sectors such as consumer, fintech, healthcare, and biotech, investing in companies that aim to address social issues through technology. The firm has built a portfolio of 79 companies, including notable exits like Mercury, which was acquired by Capital One in January 2026 for $2.6 billion. This exit highlights the firm's strong performance and its ability to generate significant returns for its investors.
Dreamers VC emphasizes community, accessibility, and collaboration, aiming to support entrepreneurs who are reimagining efficient and inclusive futures. The firm operates globally, leveraging its unique cross-border strategy to connect founders with resources and opportunities that can enhance their growth.
Dreamers VC invests primarily in early-stage companies across various sectors, including consumer, fintech, healthcare, and biotech. The firm targets pre-seed, seed, and seed-plus (extension) stages, with initial check sizes ranging from $500,000 to $3 million. Their investment strategy is centered on addressing social issues through emerging technology, making a positive impact on society.
The firm seeks to partner with founders who are not only innovative but also committed to creating inclusive solutions. Dreamers VC leverages its global network to connect portfolio companies with strategic resources, particularly in Japan, where they facilitate introductions to corporate partners. This cross-border approach enhances business development opportunities for startups looking to expand into the Japanese market.
Dreamers VC's thesis emphasizes the importance of social impact, aiming to support ventures that are reimagining efficient and inclusive futures. The firm invests alongside top-tier US lead investors, adopting a follower or participant role rather than taking the lead in deals. This strategy allows them to remain capital-efficient while benefiting from the diligence of established venture capitalists.
Dreamers VC has built a diverse portfolio of 79 companies, showcasing its commitment to various sectors. Notable portfolio companies include:
This portfolio reflects Dreamers VC's focus on technology-driven solutions that address social challenges while also showcasing a strong potential for growth and innovation.
Will Smith — Co-founder and public-facing brand anchor, Will Smith brings significant celebrity reach and a network within the entertainment sector. His background in film and media enhances the firm's visibility and appeal.
Keisuke Honda — Co-founder and former Japanese national soccer star, Keisuke Honda serves as a bridge between the US and Japan. His global sports network and experience in business development provide valuable insights for portfolio companies.
Takeshi Nakanishi — Co-founding partner, Takeshi Nakanishi specializes in building connections between Japanese and US businesses, leveraging his extensive experience in cross-border investments.
Kosaku Yada — Co-founding partner, Kosaku Yada contributes to the firm's strategic direction and operational expertise, enhancing the support provided to portfolio companies.
To pitch Dreamers VC, founders should submit their proposals through the official website at dreamers.vc. It is essential to include a comprehensive pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and social impact goals. Dreamers VC prefers pitches that clearly articulate how the startup plans to leverage technology for social good.
Response times may vary, but founders should expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are beneficial, especially from mutual connections within the venture capital or startup ecosystem.
In January 2026, Dreamers VC celebrated the acquisition of its portfolio company, **Mercury**, by Capital One for $2.6 billion. This notable exit marks a significant milestone for the firm, showcasing its ability to generate substantial returns for its investors.
Throughout 2024 and 2025, Dreamers VC continued to expand its portfolio, investing in various innovative startups across sectors such as fintech, healthcare, and consumer technology. The firm remains active in seeking new investment opportunities that align with its focus on social impact through technology.
What are Dreamers VC's investment criteria?
Dreamers VC focuses on early-stage companies in sectors such as consumer, fintech, healthcare, and biotech. They look for startups that address social issues through technology and have the potential for significant impact.
How can I pitch to Dreamers VC?
Founders can pitch Dreamers VC through their website at dreamers.vc. It is advisable to include a clear description of the business model, market opportunity, and how the startup addresses social issues.
What makes Dreamers VC different from other investors?
Dreamers VC combines celebrity and brand reach with strategic introductions to Japanese corporate partners, providing unique business development opportunities for portfolio companies. Their focus on social impact through technology also sets them apart.
What is the geographic scope of Dreamers VC's investments?
Dreamers VC invests globally, with a particular emphasis on connecting US startups with Japanese corporate investors. This cross-border strategy enhances the potential for portfolio companies to expand into new markets.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Dreamers VC typically invests between $500,000 and $3 million in early-stage companies, depending on the specific needs and potential of the startup.
What kind of support do portfolio companies receive post-investment?
Dreamers VC provides operational expertise, strategic introductions, and access to a global network, particularly in Japan, to help portfolio companies grow and succeed in their respective markets.
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