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Hanabi Capital is a venture capital firm founded in 2020 and headquartered in Palo Alto, California. The firm focuses on early-stage investments in technology-driven companies, particularly in the fields of artificial intelligence, robotics, and software infrastructure. Hanabi Capital was co-founded by Mike Volpi and Bryan Offutt, both of whom are former partners at Index Ventures, bringing a wealth of experience and a strong network to the firm.
As of now, Hanabi Capital manages an undisclosed amount of assets under management (AUM) and has made investments in 17 companies. The firm is committed to supporting innovative startups by providing them with the necessary resources and expertise to scale their operations effectively. The team consists of experienced partners who are dedicated to building strong relationships with portfolio companies, helping them navigate challenges and capitalize on market opportunities.
Hanabi Capital invests primarily in early-stage technology companies, with a specific focus on sectors such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and data infrastructure. The firm targets startups in the pre-seed, seed, and Series A stages, offering check sizes ranging from $100,000 to $2 million, with a sweet spot around $1 million. This investment strategy allows Hanabi Capital to support companies that are pioneering advancements in technology and innovation.
The firm seeks to identify startups that are developing cutting-edge solutions and provides them with strategic guidance, access to extensive networks, and resources to facilitate growth. Hanabi Capital's investment thesis emphasizes the importance of leveraging the deep connections of its founders, particularly in enterprise software and AI infrastructure, to help portfolio companies thrive in competitive markets.
Hanabi Capital's portfolio includes a diverse range of technology-driven companies that are making significant strides in their respective fields. Notable portfolio companies include:
This diverse portfolio reflects Hanabi Capital's commitment to investing in companies that are at the forefront of technological innovation.
Mike Volpi - Co-founder and General Partner. Mike has a rich background in venture capital, having previously served as a partner at Index Ventures. He has held significant roles at Cisco Systems as SVP and Chief Strategy Officer. Mike is also a board member at several companies, including Scale AI and ClickHouse, and was ranked #48 on Forbes' 2025 Midas List.
Bryan Offutt - Partner. Bryan is also a former partner at Index Ventures and has extensive experience in venture capital. He serves as a board director for companies such as Temporal and Starburst, and has invested in notable startups like LiveKit and Ollama.
Ishani Thakur - Partner. Ishani brings expertise in technology investments and has a strong background in supporting early-stage companies.
Rachel Hansen - Operating Partner. Rachel plays a crucial role in operational support for portfolio companies, helping them scale effectively.
DeAnna McDaniel - Executive Assistant. DeAnna provides administrative support to the team, ensuring smooth operations within the firm.
To pitch Hanabi Capital, founders should visit their website at hanabi.com. It is advisable to include a detailed pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and team background. Hanabi Capital prefers pitches that are concise and focused, highlighting the unique aspects of the startup.
While warm introductions are beneficial, they are not strictly necessary. Founders can expect a timely response, as the firm is actively engaged in evaluating new investment opportunities.
In June 2025, Hanabi Capital made a significant investment in Applied Compute, focusing on advanced computing solutions. The firm also participated in a $100 million funding round for Simile, which specializes in AI applications across various sectors.
Additionally, Hanabi Capital invested in Netic, which is known for its AI-driven networking solutions, during their Series B funding round led by Founders Fund and Greylock. These investments highlight Hanabi Capital's commitment to supporting innovative technology companies.
What are Hanabi Capital's investment criteria?
Hanabi Capital focuses on early-stage technology companies, particularly in artificial intelligence, robotics, and data infrastructure. They invest in pre-seed, seed, and Series A stages, with check sizes ranging from $100,000 to $2 million.
How can I pitch to Hanabi Capital?
Founders can pitch Hanabi Capital through their website at hanabi.com. It is recommended to include a clear business model, market analysis, and team background in the pitch deck.
What makes Hanabi Capital different from other VCs?
Hanabi Capital is distinguished by its focus on technology-driven companies and the extensive networks of its partners, who have backgrounds at Index Ventures. This allows them to provide unique insights and resources to their portfolio companies.
What is the geographic focus of Hanabi Capital?
Hanabi Capital primarily invests in companies based in the United States, allowing them to maintain close relationships with their portfolio companies.
What kind of support do portfolio companies receive?
Hanabi Capital provides strategic guidance, access to networks, and resources to help portfolio companies navigate challenges and scale effectively. They emphasize building strong relationships with founders.
What is the typical response time for pitches?
While specific response times are not disclosed, Hanabi Capital is known for being actively engaged with potential investments and typically responds promptly to inquiries.
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