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Nonagon Capital is a venture capital firm founded by Koki Uchiyama and Kazushi Okamoto in Japan. Established to invest in technology-driven companies, Nonagon Capital focuses on sectors such as blockchain, digital assets, and decentralized finance (DeFi). The firm operates with a mission to accelerate the emergence of new ecosystems in venture capital, particularly those that enhance capital efficiency and engage communities.
Currently, Nonagon Capital manages a portfolio of 11 companies, reflecting its commitment to supporting innovative projects. The firm is strategically positioned in Japan, leveraging its local market knowledge and connections to facilitate growth for its portfolio companies. Nonagon Capital is part of the Hotto Link / Hotlink group, which provides additional context to its operations and investment strategies.
As of now, Nonagon Capital has not disclosed its fund size or specific check sizes, but it is known to invest across various stages, including Friends & Family, Angel, Pre-seed, Seed, Seed+, Series A, Series B, and Growth Equity. This diverse stage focus allows the firm to engage with startups at different points in their development.
Nonagon Capital invests primarily in technology-driven companies, with a strong emphasis on blockchain, digital assets, and decentralized finance (DeFi). The firm’s investment strategy is designed to support projects that enhance capital efficiency and foster community engagement. Nonagon Capital is particularly interested in user-generated content (UGC) media and innovative projects that can reshape existing markets.
The firm operates across a wide range of investment stages, from Friends & Family to Growth Equity, allowing it to engage with startups at various points in their lifecycle. Nonagon Capital's geographic focus is primarily on Asia, especially Japan, but it also seeks to bridge opportunities between North America and Asia. This dual focus enables the firm to tap into diverse markets and leverage cross-border synergies.
Nonagon Capital looks for founders who are not only innovative but also committed to building communities around their projects. The firm prefers to invest in companies that demonstrate a clear understanding of their market and have a solid plan for engaging their user base. Deal structures may vary, but the firm is known for its active involvement in the projects it supports, often providing more than just capital.
Nonagon Capital's portfolio includes a diverse array of companies that reflect its focus on blockchain, gaming, and digital identity. Notable portfolio companies include:
This portfolio illustrates Nonagon Capital's commitment to investing in innovative technologies and platforms that are shaping the future of digital interaction and community engagement.
Koki Uchiyama - Founding Partner. Koki has extensive experience in venture capital and is instrumental in shaping Nonagon Capital's investment strategy.
Kazushi Okamoto - Founding Partner / Managing Director. Kazushi plays a key role in managing the firm's operations and investment decisions, with a strong background in technology investments.
Soonhee Kim - Advisor / Venture Partner. Soonhee brings valuable insights into the venture capital landscape and supports portfolio companies with strategic guidance.
Yuki Sato - Head of Business Development. Yuki is responsible for driving growth initiatives and building partnerships within the industry.
Kyohei Shibano - Technical Researcher. Kyohei focuses on the technical aspects of portfolio companies, ensuring they meet industry standards and best practices.
Yasuhiro Hino - Internal Auditor. Yasuhiro oversees compliance and financial integrity within the firm.
Yida Gao - Advisor, General Partner at Shima Capital. Yida provides additional expertise in venture capital and blockchain investments.
Kiyo Kobayashi - Founder of Noxx. Kiyo offers insights into the talent hiring landscape and regulatory compliance.
Sota Watanabe - CEO at Startale Labs. Sota contributes knowledge of the startup ecosystem and market trends.
To pitch Nonagon Capital, founders should visit their website at nonagon.xyz. It is recommended to include a detailed business plan, market analysis, and community engagement strategy in the pitch deck. Nonagon Capital prefers warm introductions but will consider direct submissions through their website.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks. It is essential to be concise and clear in the pitch, focusing on the project's potential impact in the blockchain and digital asset sectors.
In December 2025, Nonagon Capital announced its participation in the Oasys validator network, highlighting its commitment to active involvement in blockchain projects.
In January 2025, Nonagon Capital made a seed investment in SONEX, a DeFi and AI-driven platform, further expanding its portfolio in the blockchain space.
In August 2024, Nonagon Capital invested in 0xPPL, a crypto-native social network, emphasizing its focus on innovative social platforms.
Additionally, Nonagon Capital's portfolio company D3 Global completed a $25 million Series A funding round, showcasing the growth potential of its investments.
What investment criteria does Nonagon Capital use?
Nonagon Capital focuses on technology-driven companies, particularly in blockchain, digital assets, and DeFi. They look for projects that enhance capital efficiency and engage communities.
How can I pitch to Nonagon Capital?
Founders can submit their pitches through the Nonagon Capital website at nonagon.xyz. It is advisable to include a clear business model and community engagement strategy in the pitch.
What makes Nonagon Capital different from other VCs?
Nonagon Capital emphasizes community engagement and capital efficiency in its investment strategy. The firm also provides ecosystem support beyond capital, including market access to Japan and Asia.
What is the geographic scope of Nonagon Capital's investments?
Nonagon Capital primarily focuses on Asia, especially Japan, but also seeks opportunities that bridge North America and Asia.
What stages of investment does Nonagon Capital participate in?
Nonagon Capital invests across various stages, including Friends & Family, Angel, Pre-seed, Seed, Seed+, Series A, Series B, and Growth Equity.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Nonagon Capital have?
Nonagon Capital is known for its active involvement in portfolio companies, providing support in community engagement strategies and market access.
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