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gumi Cryptos Capital (gCC) is a boutique early-stage venture capital firm based in Silicon Valley, founded in 2018. The firm specializes in investing in the blockchain and digital asset sectors, supporting innovative companies that are shaping the future of digital finance and decentralized technologies. gCC has established a strong connection to Japanese institutional capital, which allows it to bridge the gap between Silicon Valley's crypto builders and the Asian market.
As of now, gumi Cryptos Capital manages assets totaling $110 million across its funds. The firm has backed 36 portfolio companies, primarily at the seed stage, and has a notable track record of successful investments. gCC's first fund, launched in 2018, has achieved a remarkable 24.6x TVPI as of January 2022, driven largely by its investment in OpenSea, which reached a peak valuation of $13.3 billion.
gCC is backed by gumi Inc., a Tokyo Stock Exchange-listed mobile game developer and publisher, along with seven other Japanese public companies, including banks and IT firms. This unique backing provides gCC with a solid foundation and credibility in the venture capital space.
gumi Cryptos Capital focuses on early-stage investments in the blockchain and digital asset sectors. The firm targets companies that are developing new protocols to facilitate the transfer of digital assets, resources, and intellectual property. gCC emphasizes the importance of decentralization and incentivizing network participants, which aligns with its investment thesis.
The firm invests across various stages, including pre-seed, seed, seed+ (extension), and Series A rounds. Check sizes typically range from $500,000 to $5 million, encompassing both equity and tokens. gCC's investment strategy is global, allowing it to tap into a diverse range of opportunities in the blockchain space.
gCC seeks to partner with founders who are building innovative solutions in the blockchain ecosystem. The firm values teams that demonstrate a strong understanding of the market and possess the ability to execute their vision effectively. This focus on collaboration and support is a key aspect of gCC's investment approach.
gumi Cryptos Capital has built a diverse portfolio of 36 companies, primarily in the blockchain and digital asset sectors. Notable portfolio companies include:
In addition to these notable companies, Fund II has invested in emerging startups such as Proof of Learn, XY Finance, Solv Finance, and Alliance Labs. This diverse portfolio reflects gCC's commitment to supporting innovative projects that are shaping the future of the blockchain industry.
Hironao Kunimitsu - Co-founder and Managing Partner. He is a serial entrepreneur who founded gumi Inc. in 2007 and took it public on the Tokyo Stock Exchange in 2014. Kunimitsu manages investments at gCC and has extensive experience in the tech industry.
Rui Zhang - Co-founder and Managing Partner. Zhang previously served as VP of gumi Inc., where he led global investments in gaming, VR/AR, and social networks. He manages investments and operations at gCC.
Miko Matsumura - Managing Partner who joined in 2018. Matsumura is a serial entrepreneur focused on open-source software startups in Silicon Valley. He manages investments and works closely with entrepreneurs on go-to-market strategies and fundraising. Matsumura is also a speaker at major crypto conferences.
Evans - Joined in 2024 and manages investments in Asia and portfolio strategy. He was formerly the Head of Investment at Huobi Ventures, bringing valuable experience to the team.
To pitch gumi Cryptos Capital, founders should visit their website at gumi-cryptos.com. The firm prefers pitches that include a comprehensive deck outlining the business model, market analysis, and team background. While there is no formal application portal, a well-structured email or submission through the website is recommended.
Response times can vary, but founders should expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are beneficial, as they can enhance the likelihood of a favorable review.
In March 2022, gumi Cryptos Capital closed its second fund, Fund II, with a total size of $110 million. This fund is almost five times larger than its first fund, which was $21 million and launched in 2018. Fund II has already made nine investments as lead or co-lead, including companies like Proof of Learn, XY Finance, Solv Finance, and Alliance Labs.
As of January 2022, Fund I achieved a remarkable 24.6x TVPI, driven primarily by the success of its investment in OpenSea. This performance has positioned gCC as a credible player in the crypto venture capital space, particularly with its strong connections to Japanese institutional investors.
What are gumi Cryptos Capital's investment criteria?
gumi Cryptos Capital invests in early-stage companies within the blockchain and digital asset sectors. The firm looks for innovative solutions that promote decentralization and facilitate the transfer of digital assets. Ideal candidates demonstrate a strong understanding of the market and a capable execution strategy.
How can founders apply or pitch to gumi Cryptos Capital?
Founders can pitch their ideas through the firm's website at gumi-cryptos.com. It is advisable to include a clear business model, market analysis, and details on the team in the pitch deck.
What makes gumi Cryptos Capital different from other VCs?
gumi Cryptos Capital uniquely bridges the gap between Silicon Valley's crypto builders and Japanese institutional capital. This connection allows the firm to provide valuable insights and resources to its portfolio companies, enhancing their growth potential.
What is the geographic scope of gumi Cryptos Capital's investments?
The firm invests globally, focusing on early-stage blockchain and digital asset companies. This broad geographic reach enables gCC to tap into diverse markets and innovative projects.
What is the typical check size for investments?
gumi Cryptos Capital typically invests between $500,000 and $5 million in each company, which includes both initial and follow-on investments. The firm invests in both equity and tokens.
What kind of post-investment involvement does gumi Cryptos Capital have?
gumi Cryptos Capital provides strategic support to its portfolio companies, including access to a network of industry experts, resources for go-to-market strategies, and guidance on fundraising. This involvement helps accelerate growth and enhances the chances of success for their investments.
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