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HAKOBUNE is an independent seed venture capital firm founded in 2022, headquartered in Japan. The firm focuses on early-stage investments, particularly in transformative ideas that have the potential to create significant impact. HAKOBUNE's first fund, HAKOBUNE No.1 Fund, has a target size of ¥2 billion JPY (approximately $13-14 million USD) and began its investment activities in July 2023.
The firm is backed by a strong limited partner base, including notable corporations such as Shinsei Bank, Canon Marketing Japan, and Mitsui Fudosan. This diverse LP roster enhances HAKOBUNE's credibility and provides portfolio companies with valuable distribution and customer connections within Japan's corporate landscape.
HAKOBUNE's mission is to support innovative startups that can drive change in various sectors, particularly those led by corporate employees turned entrepreneurs. The firm believes that the next generation of successful Japanese startups will emerge from individuals who understand deep industry problems from within large organizations.
HAKOBUNE invests in early-stage companies across several sectors, including B2B/Vertical SaaS, Consumer/ESG/Web3, and advanced technologies such as AI and 5G. The firm specifically targets unconventional founders, particularly those who have transitioned from corporate roles to entrepreneurship. This focus on corporate spin-outs is rooted in the belief that these individuals possess unique insights into industry challenges and opportunities.
The firm typically invests at the Pre-Seed, Seed, and Series A stages, with check sizes ranging from $100,000 to $2 million. HAKOBUNE aims to lead investments and provide hands-on support to its portfolio companies, leveraging its extensive network of mid-to-large Japanese corporates to facilitate growth and market entry.
HAKOBUNE explicitly excludes biotech from its investment strategy, concentrating instead on sectors that align with its thesis of supporting transformative change. The firm seeks to back founders who are not only innovative but also capable of addressing significant industry problems through their ventures.
HAKOBUNE's portfolio includes four notable companies:
These companies reflect HAKOBUNE's commitment to investing in innovative solutions across various sectors, particularly those that leverage technology to drive change.
Yusuke Kurishima — General Partner and Founder. Yusuke previously worked at Villing Venture Partners, where he gained experience in venture capital and startup investments.
Masahiro Kimura — General Partner and Founder. Masahiro has a background with Spanova and other venture capital firms, bringing expertise in identifying and supporting early-stage companies.
To pitch HAKOBUNE, founders should visit their website at www.hkbn.vc. It is recommended to include a comprehensive deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, competitive landscape, and team qualifications.
HAKOBUNE prefers pitches that are concise and focused, highlighting the unique aspects of the startup and its potential for transformative impact. Founders should expect a response within a few weeks, and warm introductions are encouraged but not mandatory.
In July 2022, HAKOBUNE launched its first fund, HAKOBUNE No.1 Fund, with a target size of ¥2 billion JPY. The firm began its investment activities in July 2023, focusing on early-stage companies in Japan.
HAKOBUNE has made notable investments in companies such as LOOV and TopoLogic, reflecting its commitment to supporting innovative startups in the Japanese market.
What are HAKOBUNE's investment criteria?
HAKOBUNE focuses on early-stage investments in sectors such as B2B/Vertical SaaS, Consumer/ESG/Web3, and advanced technologies like AI and 5G. The firm specifically targets unconventional founders, particularly those transitioning from corporate roles to entrepreneurship.
How can I pitch HAKOBUNE?
Founders interested in pitching HAKOBUNE can submit their proposals through the firm's website at www.hkbn.vc. It is advisable to include a clear outline of the business model, market opportunity, and the team’s background.
What makes HAKOBUNE different from other VCs?
HAKOBUNE differentiates itself by focusing on corporate spin-out founders who understand industry challenges from within large organizations. This unique perspective allows the firm to identify and support startups that are well-positioned to drive significant change.
What is HAKOBUNE's geographic focus?
The firm primarily invests in the Japanese startup ecosystem, emphasizing local innovation and the potential for impactful investments within Japan.
What is the typical check size for investments?
HAKOBUNE typically invests between $100,000 and $2 million in its portfolio companies, depending on the stage and needs of the startup.
What kind of support does HAKOBUNE provide to its portfolio companies?
HAKOBUNE offers hands-on support, leveraging its network of mid-to-large Japanese corporates to facilitate distribution and customer connections for its portfolio companies.
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