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Koru VC is a Singapore-linked impact venture investor focused on addressing waste and plastic pollution in the Asia Pacific region. Founded with a mission to promote circular economy principles, Koru VC operates the Planet Detox Fund, which is one of the first seed-stage funds in the region dedicated to sustainable practices. The firm aims to generate both financial returns and measurable impact, particularly in Southeast Asia and China.
The firm is actively engaged in various initiatives, including the Temasek Foundation Green Future Innovation Challenge and the Indo-Pacific Plastic Innovation Network, which highlight its commitment to supporting startups that focus on sustainability and plastic innovation. Koru VC's investment strategy emphasizes operational support and regional scaling, connecting founders with ecosystem partners and pilot opportunities to enhance their chances of success.
Koru VC invests primarily in seed-stage and pre-Series A companies that are innovating within the circular economy sector. The firm seeks startups that can demonstrate a minimum viable product (MVP) or proof of concept, particularly those addressing issues related to plastic pollution, sustainable materials, and waste management. Koru VC's investment thesis emphasizes upstream and downstream business models that eliminate waste and pollution while regenerating nature.
The firm operates within a check size range of approximately $250K, with flexibility for exceptional cases. Koru VC's geographic focus includes Singapore, Southeast Asia, and China, with a broader emphasis on the Asia Pacific region. Founders are encouraged to present scalable business models that align with the firm’s mission of fostering solutions that allow children to swim with fish, not plastics.
While specific portfolio companies are not disclosed, Koru VC is involved in several notable initiatives that reflect its commitment to sustainability and innovation in the circular economy. The firm serves as an official Amplifier Partner for the Temasek Foundation Green Future Innovation Challenge, which supports startups in energy transition, industrial decarbonization, sustainable agriculture, and pollution reduction. This initiative provides proof-of-concept opportunities for startups in China.
Koru VC also participated as a jury member for the Indo-Pacific Plastic Innovation Network Thailand Demo Day, indicating its active engagement in the plastic innovation sector. Additionally, Koru VC has recently become an affiliate of 1000 Ocean Startups, further showcasing its involvement in ocean innovation and sustainability efforts.
Jong Mun Goh - Founding Partner. Jong Mun Goh has a background in venture capital and impact investing, focusing on sustainable practices within the startup ecosystem. He has been instrumental in launching the Planet Detox Fund and driving Koru VC's mission.
Sean Ang - Associate Venture Partner. Sean Ang brings experience in venture capital and a keen interest in sustainability. He plays a key role in evaluating potential investments and supporting portfolio companies in their growth.
To pitch Koru VC, founders should submit their proposals through the official website. It is important to include a clear description of the startup's MVP, business model, and the measurable impact on sustainability. Koru VC prefers pitches that demonstrate a strong alignment with its focus on circular economy solutions.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are encouraged, as they can enhance the likelihood of a favorable review.
As of April 2026, Koru VC has been actively involved in various initiatives aimed at promoting sustainability and circular economy practices. The firm recently participated as a jury member for the Indo-Pacific Plastic Innovation Network Thailand Demo Day, showcasing its commitment to supporting startups in the plastic innovation sector.
Koru VC has also become an affiliate of 1000 Ocean Startups, reflecting its ongoing engagement in ocean innovation and sustainability efforts. These activities highlight Koru VC's dedication to fostering solutions that address waste and plastic pollution in the Asia Pacific region.
What are Koru VC's investment criteria?
Koru VC focuses on seed-stage and pre-Series A companies that demonstrate a minimum viable product (MVP) or proof of concept. The firm looks for startups addressing plastic pollution, sustainable materials, and waste management through circular economy principles.
How can founders pitch to Koru VC?
Founders can pitch their startups through the official Koru VC website. It is advisable to include details about the MVP, business model scalability, and measurable impact on waste reduction or sustainability in the pitch.
What makes Koru VC different from other investors?
Koru VC is distinct in its dual focus on financial returns and measurable environmental impact. The firm provides operational support and connects startups with ecosystem partners, enhancing their chances of success in the sustainability sector.
What is Koru VC's geographic focus?
Koru VC primarily invests in Singapore, Southeast Asia, and China, with a broader emphasis on the Asia Pacific region. The firm is particularly interested in startups that can scale regionally.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Koru VC typically invests around $250K, although there is flexibility for exceptional cases. This check size is aimed at supporting early-stage startups in their growth journey.
What kind of support does Koru VC provide post-investment?
Koru VC offers operational support to its portfolio companies, helping them scale regionally across the Asia Pacific. The firm connects founders with grants, pilot opportunities, and ecosystem partners to enhance their growth potential.
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