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Nautilus Investment is a venture capital firm established in 2019 and based in South Korea. The firm focuses on early-stage investments in deep-tech startups, particularly in the fields of artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT). Nautilus Investment operates as a sister entity to Nautilus Venture Partners, which is located in Silicon Valley. This relationship allows Nautilus Investment to leverage local expertise while facilitating the global expansion of Korean founders, especially into the U.S. market.
Headquartered in Gangnam-gu, Seoul, Nautilus Investment has multiple office locations across South Korea, including Incheon, Gwangju, and Cheonan. The firm has made approximately 26 investments since its inception, reflecting its commitment to supporting innovation in deep-tech sectors. Nautilus Investment aims to provide a unique platform for startups looking to scale internationally.
Nautilus Investment primarily targets early-stage investments in deep-tech sectors, including AI, IoT, big data, and mobile technologies. The firm is particularly focused on supporting Korean entrepreneurs as they navigate the complexities of global markets, with a strong emphasis on the U.S. market. Nautilus Investment seeks startups that demonstrate potential for significant growth and global expansion.
The firm typically invests at the seed and Series A stages, providing check sizes that align with early-stage funding needs. Nautilus Investment's investment strategy is characterized by its commitment to leveraging its extensive corporate network and resources to facilitate the growth of its portfolio companies. The firm values founders who possess a clear vision and the capability to execute their business plans effectively.
Nautilus Investment's portfolio includes a diverse range of companies that exemplify its focus on deep-tech innovation. Notable portfolio companies include:
In addition to these current investments, Nautilus Investment has been associated with notable exits such as WeRide, an autonomous driving company that achieved unicorn status and went public, and Volta Charging, which has made significant strides in the electric vehicle charging sector.
As of April 2026, Nautilus Investment has been actively involved in the deep-tech investment space, with approximately 26 deals reported. The firm continues to support Korean founders in their journey to expand into global markets. Notable exits from its portfolio include WeRide, which achieved unicorn status and went public, and Volta Charging, which has made significant advancements in the electric vehicle sector.
The firm maintains a close relationship with its sister entity, Nautilus Venture Partners, which has a strong track record in Silicon Valley. This connection enhances Nautilus Investment's ability to provide valuable resources and support to its portfolio companies.
What are Nautilus Investment's investment criteria?
Nautilus Investment focuses on early-stage deep-tech startups, particularly in AI and IoT. The firm seeks companies that have the potential for global expansion, especially those targeting the U.S. market.
How can founders pitch to Nautilus Investment?
Founders interested in pitching to Nautilus Investment should prepare a comprehensive pitch deck that outlines their business model, market opportunity, and growth strategy. While specific submission channels are not disclosed, networking through industry events or introductions via mutual connections may be beneficial.
What makes Nautilus Investment different from other VCs?
Nautilus Investment distinguishes itself by its strong ties to the Silicon Valley ecosystem through its sister entity, Nautilus Venture Partners. This connection provides portfolio companies with access to a global expansion infrastructure and a network of corporate partners.
What is the geographic focus of Nautilus Investment?
The firm primarily invests in startups based in North America and Asia, with a particular emphasis on supporting Korean founders looking to expand into the U.S. market.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not publicly disclosed, Nautilus Investment typically invests at the seed and Series A stages, which generally involves smaller funding amounts compared to later-stage investments.
What kind of support do portfolio companies receive post-investment?
Nautilus Investment provides its portfolio companies with access to a global expansion infrastructure, leveraging its connections in Silicon Valley and a network of corporate partners to facilitate strategic growth.
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