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株式会社みらい創造インベストメンツ (MIRAISOZO INVESTMENTS Inc.) is a venture capital firm established on September 9, 2014, in Tokyo, Japan. The firm focuses on investing in research and development-oriented startups, particularly those associated with the Tokyo Institute of Technology. MIRAISOZO aims to support the commercialization of research outcomes from universities and research institutions, providing hands-on support for management team formation and the development of CxO talent.
As of now, MIRAISOZO has invested in 31 companies across various sectors, including healthcare, energy, and robotics. The firm has established a reputation for its commitment to enhancing the commercialization of innovative technologies derived from research. MIRAISOZO operates from its office located at the Tokyo Science University Campus Innovation Center, which facilitates close collaboration with academic institutions.
Notable milestones include the successful exits of four companies through IPOs and four through M&A transactions. The firm continues to evolve, with the recent establishment of its third fund, which adds a venture creation component to its investment strategy.
MIRAISOZO INVESTMENTS primarily invests in research and development-based startups, particularly those linked to the Tokyo Institute of Technology. The firm’s investment strategy encompasses various sectors, including deep tech, healthcare, energy, and robotics. They engage with startups from the research phase through to post-establishment funding and operational support, aiming to facilitate the social implementation of technology.
The firm targets investment stages ranging from pre-seed to Series A, allowing them to support startups at critical early stages of development. MIRAISOZO seeks to partner with founders who demonstrate a strong commitment to innovation and possess the capability to commercialize their research effectively. Their investment approach includes providing hands-on support in management team formation and the development of CxO talent, ensuring that portfolio companies are well-equipped for growth.
MIRAISOZO INVESTMENTS has a diverse portfolio of 31 companies, showcasing its commitment to various sectors. Notable portfolio companies include:
The firm has achieved notable exits, including four IPOs and four M&A transactions, demonstrating its effectiveness in identifying and nurturing high-potential startups.
岡田 祐之: President & Managing Partner. He has extensive experience in venture capital and has led numerous successful investments in the technology sector.
金子 大介: Director / Co-founder & Managing Partner. He co-founded MIRAISOZO and has a strong background in supporting startups linked to academic research.
高橋 遼平: Executive Officer & Managing Partner. He specializes in operational support and has a track record of guiding startups through their growth phases.
高山 朝邦: Principal. He focuses on identifying high-potential investment opportunities within the firm's target sectors.
長妻 祐美子: Senior Capitalist. She brings expertise in healthcare investments and has been instrumental in several successful exits.
南 百合子: Senior Capitalist. She has a strong background in technology commercialization and supports portfolio companies in scaling their operations.
相澤 浩明: Capitalist. He focuses on early-stage investments and has a keen interest in deep tech startups.
森 健太郎: EIR (Entrepreneur in Residence). He provides mentorship and operational support to portfolio companies.
高橋 駿彦: EIR. He assists startups in refining their business models and go-to-market strategies.
中村 健: EIR. He has experience in scaling technology companies and offers strategic guidance to founders.
嘉積 正人: EIR. He focuses on supporting startups in the robotics sector.
山口 奈々: EIR. She provides insights into healthcare investments and market trends.
九鬼 嵩典: EIR. He specializes in deep tech and assists startups in navigating technical challenges.
古賀 洋一郎: Guest CTO. He offers technical guidance to portfolio companies in the technology sector.
木村 聡太: Guest CTO. He provides expertise in product development and technology strategy.
齋藤 康平: External Director / CEO of みらいリレーションズ. He brings a wealth of experience in business development.
兼城 駿一郎: Advisor (Kosen Collaboration) / CEO of みらいスタジオ. He focuses on fostering collaborations between startups and educational institutions.
安達 俊久: Advisor (VC). He provides insights into venture capital trends and investment strategies.
守屋 実: Advisor (Business Development). He assists portfolio companies in identifying growth opportunities.
坂本 忠弘: Advisor (Financial Collaboration). He offers financial guidance to startups.
大倉 一郎: Advisor (Technology). He provides technical expertise to support innovation in portfolio companies.
To pitch to MIRAISOZO INVESTMENTS, founders should use the preferred channel available on their website at miraisozo.co.jp. The pitch deck should include a comprehensive overview of the business model, market analysis, and team qualifications. Founders are encouraged to provide detailed information about their technology and its commercialization strategy.
Response times may vary, but founders should expect a thorough review process. Warm introductions are beneficial, especially from individuals within the Tokyo Institute of Technology or the broader research community.
In recent months, MIRAISOZO INVESTMENTS has actively participated in various pitch events, including the "Kanto Local Startup Frontier×NEDO Dream Pitch" and "Science Tokyo Innovation Day," where team members served as speakers and judges. These events highlight the firm's commitment to engaging with the startup community and supporting innovation.
Additionally, MIRAISOZO has announced its involvement in the "founders otaMEshi studio" as a VC partner, further solidifying its role in fostering startup growth. The firm has also published articles discussing the development of deep tech talent ecosystems, showcasing its thought leadership in the sector.
What are the investment criteria for MIRAISOZO INVESTMENTS?
MIRAISOZO primarily invests in research and development-oriented startups, particularly those associated with the Tokyo Institute of Technology. They focus on sectors such as healthcare, energy, robotics, and deep tech. The firm looks for startups that demonstrate strong innovation potential and a clear path to commercialization.
How can founders apply or pitch to MIRAISOZO?
Founders can pitch their ideas through the firm's website at miraisozo.co.jp. It is recommended to include a detailed business plan, market analysis, and information about the founding team in the pitch deck.
What makes MIRAISOZO different from other venture capital firms?
MIRAISOZO distinguishes itself by its strong ties to the Tokyo Institute of Technology, which allows them to access cutting-edge research and innovation. The firm provides hands-on support for management team formation and CxO talent development, ensuring that portfolio companies are well-prepared for growth.
What is the geographic scope of MIRAISOZO's investments?
The firm primarily focuses on startups based in Japan, particularly those linked to the Tokyo Institute of Technology. However, they may also consider opportunities in other parts of Asia.
What is the typical check size for investments?
MIRAISOZO invests at various stages, including pre-seed, seed, seed-plus, and Series A. While specific check sizes are not disclosed, they typically align with the funding needs of early-stage startups.
What kind of post-investment involvement does MIRAISOZO have?
MIRAISOZO is actively involved in the management and operational support of its portfolio companies. They assist in forming management teams and developing CxO talent, ensuring that startups have the necessary resources and guidance to succeed.
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