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Motion Capital is a venture capital firm established in 2023 by Lachlan Nixon in New Zealand. The firm focuses on investing in climate technology companies that contribute to a sustainable future. Motion Capital aims to support innovations that address climate change through investments in energy optimization, decarbonization, and sustainable materials.
Currently, Motion Capital manages a fund size of $20 million, structured as a 10-year closed-end fund. The firm has a portfolio of eight companies and operates with a global investment strategy, although it has strong ties to New Zealand. Motion Capital has positioned itself as an active lead investor, particularly at the pre-seed and seed stages, leveraging its expertise to secure follow-on investments from larger co-investors.
Notable milestones include the successful closing of its debut fund, which was reported in New Zealand's leading business publication, NBR. The firm is recognized for its commitment to enhancing the growth potential of its portfolio companies through operational experience and a strong network in the climate tech sector.
Motion Capital invests primarily in the climate technology sector, targeting companies at various stages of development, including pre-seed, seed, seed-plus, Series A, Series B, Series C, and growth equity. The firm emphasizes supporting innovations that can significantly impact energy, industrial processes, the built environment, and agriculture, particularly in hard-to-abate sectors.
The investment thesis of Motion Capital is centered on technologies that make it cheaper to decarbonize than to pollute, focusing on competing on cost and performance rather than solely on climate credentials. The firm seeks to back businesses that are involved in energy optimization, decarbonization, and sustainable materials, reflecting a commitment to addressing climate change through impactful investments.
Geographically, Motion Capital is open to global opportunities, although it has a strong foundation in New Zealand. The firm actively engages with its portfolio companies, providing operational support and leveraging its network to enhance growth potential.
Motion Capital's portfolio consists of eight notable companies, each contributing to the climate technology sector:
These companies represent Motion Capital's commitment to investing in innovative solutions that address climate challenges and promote sustainability.
Lachlan Nixon — Founding Partner; established Motion Capital in 2023 with a focus on climate technology investments. He brings a vision for supporting innovations that contribute to a sustainable future.
Chris Harris — Partner; co-founded and bootstrapped NinjaKiwi, a gaming company, leading it to a $366 million sale in 2021. He offers operational founder expertise and insights into scaling businesses.
Ralph Chang — Partner; joined Motion Capital in 2024 with a background in banking and green finance. He previously served as CEO of Power Finance, focusing on technology-enabled green debt instruments.
Startups interested in pitching to Motion Capital should submit their proposals through the firm's website. It is recommended to include a comprehensive deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and the innovation's impact on climate challenges. Motion Capital values clarity and detail in pitches, particularly regarding how the technology can compete on cost and performance.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are preferred, as they can enhance the likelihood of securing a meeting with the investment team.
In April 2026, Motion Capital successfully closed its debut fund at $20 million, as reported by NBR, marking a significant milestone for the firm. The fund's focus on climate technology positions it as a key player in the investment landscape.
Additionally, Motion Capital has been active in securing investments for its portfolio companies, including leading a $10 million round for Zincovery, which focuses on decarbonizing zinc dust recycling. The firm also participated in a $5 million pre-Series A round for Miruku, which produces animal-free dairy at scale.
What are Motion Capital's investment criteria?
Motion Capital focuses on climate technology companies that operate in various stages of development, including pre-seed, seed, and growth equity. The firm looks for innovations that can significantly impact energy optimization, decarbonization, and sustainable materials.
How can startups apply or pitch to Motion Capital?
Startups interested in pitching to Motion Capital can submit their proposals through the firm's website at motioncapital.co.nz. It is advisable to include detailed information about the business model, market potential, and how the innovation addresses climate challenges.
What makes Motion Capital different from other venture capital firms?
Motion Capital distinguishes itself by focusing exclusively on climate technology investments. The firm emphasizes supporting innovations that make it cheaper to decarbonize than to pollute, ensuring that cost and performance are prioritized alongside climate credentials.
What is the geographic scope of Motion Capital's investments?
While Motion Capital is based in New Zealand, it has a global investment strategy, seeking opportunities in various markets that align with its focus on climate technology.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not disclosed, Motion Capital is known to lead investments at the pre-seed and seed stages, often securing follow-on investments from larger co-investors to support portfolio growth.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Motion Capital have?
Motion Capital actively engages with its portfolio companies, providing operational support and leveraging its network to enhance growth potential. The firm aims to act as a lead investor, particularly in the early stages, to help secure additional funding and resources.
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