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Keio Innovation Initiative, Inc. (KII) was founded on December 17, 2015, in Minato, Tokyo, Japan. The firm operates as a university-affiliated venture capital entity, primarily focusing on the commercialization of technologies and innovations developed in university research labs. KII serves as a vital link between academia and the business world, aiming to support startups that tackle pressing social issues, particularly in healthcare and digital technology.
As of now, KII manages approximately ¥35 billion (around $230 million USD) across three funds, with a diverse portfolio of 51 companies. The firm has established a strong institutional LP base, including Japan Post Insurance, Japan Investment Corporation, and several major Japanese banks. KII's team comprises experienced professionals, including executives from Keio Academic Enterprise and Nomura Holdings, enhancing its operational capabilities and strategic direction.
Notable milestones include the successful IPOs of several portfolio companies, such as Synspective, Inc. and Heartseed, Inc. KII continues to expand its influence in the venture capital landscape, actively participating in follow-on funding and collaborating with external experts to provide hands-on assistance to its portfolio companies.
KII invests primarily in seed and early-stage startups, with a strong emphasis on addressing social issues through innovative solutions in healthcare and digital technology. The firm typically engages in Friends & Family, Angel, Accelerator/Incubator, Pre-seed, and Seed stages, providing lead investments and actively participating in follow-on funding rounds. KII's check sizes range from approximately ¥40 million to ¥1 billion (around $270,000 to $6.7 million USD), allowing for flexibility in supporting various startup needs.
The sectors of interest for KII include artificial intelligence, healthcare, biotechnology, SaaS, digital health, robotics, fintech, food agtech, climate, and energy. The firm has a particular focus on startups that commercialize research from Keio University and other Japanese academic institutions. KII aims to contribute to societal advancement by leveraging academic research and expertise, aligning its investments with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
In addition to financial support, KII collaborates with external experts and utilizes public support systems to enhance the growth and commercialization of its portfolio companies. This hands-on approach ensures that startups receive the necessary guidance and resources to succeed in their respective markets.
KII's portfolio consists of 51 companies across various sectors, showcasing a commitment to impactful investments. Notable companies include:
Other significant investments include:
KII's diverse portfolio reflects its strategy of investing in startups that leverage academic research to address societal challenges, particularly in healthcare and digital technology.
Kotaro Yamagishi - President. Yamagishi has extensive experience in venture capital and has been instrumental in KII's strategic direction since its inception.
Shuichi Kinoshita - Executive Officer. Kinoshita brings a wealth of knowledge from his previous roles in academia and venture capital.
Tomokatsu Hongo - Executive Officer. Hongo has a strong background in technology commercialization and startup development.
Hajime Mitsudome - Executive Officer. Mitsudome specializes in investment strategy and portfolio management.
Naoji Nomura - Principal. Nomura focuses on sourcing and evaluating new investment opportunities.
Yuto Torii - Principal. Torii has expertise in healthcare investments and supports portfolio companies in this sector.
Ryo Ohtake - Principal. Ohtake is involved in deal sourcing and due diligence processes.
Yusuke Satake - Principal. Satake focuses on technology investments, particularly in AI and robotics.
Yuriko Gibo - Principal. Gibo has a background in finance and supports KII's operational functions.
Takayuki Yamada - Venture Partner. Yamada brings extensive industry connections and insights to KII's investment strategy.
Chika Shinozaki - Principal. Shinozaki specializes in digital health investments and works closely with portfolio companies in this area.
Naoto Tomono - Principal. Tomono focuses on biotech investments and has a strong network in the life sciences sector.
Toshihiro Suzuki - Senior Associate. Suzuki supports the investment team in various capacities, including research and analysis.
Danqian Gao - Impact Analyst. Gao evaluates the social impact of potential investments and aligns them with KII's mission.
Marino Takemura - Senior Associate. Takemura assists in deal sourcing and portfolio management.
Tomohito Kawamoto - Senior Associate. Kawamoto focuses on operational support for portfolio companies.
Shota Narazaki - Senior Associate. Narazaki is involved in market research and investment analysis.
Yoshiki Sakamoto - Associate. Sakamoto supports the investment team with due diligence and reporting.
Yuka Shimashita - Public Relations. Shimashita manages KII's communications and outreach efforts.
To pitch to KII, founders should use the funding inquiry form available at this link. It is important to include a detailed deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and social impact. KII prefers pitches that clearly articulate how the startup leverages academic research and addresses societal challenges.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks. KII values warm introductions, so leveraging connections within the academic or venture capital community can enhance the chances of a successful pitch.
In October 2023, KII launched its third fund, KII3, with a total capital of ¥20.2 billion (approximately $135 million USD). This fund focuses on seed and early-stage investments, continuing KII's commitment to supporting startups that address social issues.
Notable portfolio company Synspective, Inc. went public in 2023, marking a significant milestone for KII and its investment strategy. Additionally, Heartseed, Inc. and Kringle Pharma, Inc. also achieved IPO status, showcasing KII's successful track record in supporting companies that leverage academic research for societal advancement.
What are KII's investment criteria?
KII focuses on seed and early-stage startups that address social issues, particularly in healthcare and digital technology. The firm invests in various sectors, including AI, biotech, and fintech.
How can I pitch to KII?
Founders can pitch to KII through their funding inquiry form available at this link. It is recommended to include a clear business model and the social impact of your startup.
What makes KII different from other VCs?
KII uniquely bridges academia and business, leveraging research from Keio University and other institutions to support startups. This connection provides portfolio companies with access to academic expertise and resources.
What is KII's geographic focus?
KII primarily invests in startups based in Japan and other parts of Asia, emphasizing local innovations that address global challenges.
What is KII's follow-on investment behavior?
KII actively participates in follow-on funding rounds, ensuring continued support for its portfolio companies as they grow and scale.
What is the typical check size for KII?
KII's check sizes range from approximately ¥40 million to ¥1 billion (around $270,000 to $6.7 million USD), depending on the startup's needs and stage of development.
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