Discover if this is a suitable investor for your startup. If they are we'll make a warm introduction for free. Otherwise, we'll connect you with matching investors.
Osaka University Venture Capital (OUVC) is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Osaka University, established in December 2014. Headquartered in Suita City, Osaka, Japan, OUVC also operates an office in Silicon Valley, California. The organization focuses on commercializing university research results and fostering the growth of startups that address global social challenges. By bridging the gap between academia and industry, OUVC aims to create new value and support innovative solutions across various sectors.
As of now, OUVC manages a total fund size of approximately $100 million, with two funds established: OUVC Fund 1, which received a ¥10 billion injection, and OUVC Fund 2, formed in January 2021 with a commitment of ¥6.53 billion from Osaka University. The firm has a concentrated portfolio of 13 companies, reflecting a high-conviction investment strategy. OUVC's notable milestone includes the IPO of Kringle Pharma in 2018, marking its first exit.
OUVC invests in a diverse range of sectors, including biotech, healthcare, AI, climate, energy, frontier technologies, and consumer products. The firm primarily targets early-stage investments, focusing on seed to Series A rounds. Check sizes typically range from $1 million to $10 million, allowing for significant support in the initial phases of startup development.
The organization emphasizes leveraging the intellectual assets and research outcomes of Japanese universities to foster innovation. OUVC provides multifaceted support, including financial assistance, management guidance, and business development resources. This approach aims to help startups tackle pressing global issues such as climate change and healthcare, utilizing the world-class research and networks available through its academic affiliations.
OUVC's portfolio includes a variety of notable companies that exemplify its investment strategy:
Akira Uotani: President & CEO, previously held leadership roles in various venture capital firms and has extensive experience in startup development and investment strategies.
Shinsaku Miyagi: CFO, responsible for financial management and strategic planning, with a background in finance and investment.
Yuki Taga: Director, Investment Division, specializes in identifying and evaluating investment opportunities in deep tech and life sciences.
Nozomu Mamiya: Director, Corporate Planning Division, oversees corporate strategy and administration, with experience in business development.
Monta Sakaki: Capitalist, Investment Division, focuses on sourcing and managing investments in innovative startups.
Shigehiro Asano: Capitalist, Investment Division, brings expertise in technology commercialization and startup growth.
Hiroki Ikuta: Associate, Investment Division, involved in due diligence and portfolio management.
Toshihiro Doi: Associate, Investment Division, supports investment analysis and deal execution.
Kosuke Ishii: Associate, Investment Division, assists in evaluating potential investments and managing portfolio companies.
Akira Morimoto: HR of Investment Company, Investment Division, focuses on talent acquisition and human resource management.
Masato Ishiwata: Entrepreneur In Residence, provides mentorship and guidance to portfolio companies.
Masahiro Uehira: Senior Venture Partner, Group Leader, Investment Division, leads investment strategy and portfolio management.
Hiroki Sato: Senior Venture Partner, Investment Division, specializes in deep tech investments.
Yoshiyuki Shimekake: Venture Partner, Investment Division, focuses on strategic partnerships and collaborations.
Aya Takahashi: Investment Division, involved in sourcing and evaluating investment opportunities.
Yoshihiko Sakamoto: Chief, Corporate Planning Division, oversees corporate strategy and planning initiatives.
Kenichi Nobuhara: Corporate Planning Division, supports strategic planning and operational efficiency.
Noriyuki Minamitani: Administration Division, Corporate Planning Division, manages administrative functions and corporate governance.
Serina Oda: Administration Division, involved in operational support and administrative tasks.
Startups interested in pitching to OUVC should utilize the preferred channel available on their website. It is important to include a comprehensive pitch deck that outlines the business model, market analysis, and team qualifications. OUVC typically responds within a few weeks of receiving a pitch.
Warm introductions are beneficial but not mandatory. Founders are encouraged to clearly articulate their connection to academic research or any innovative technologies that align with OUVC's investment focus.
In the past year, OUVC has made seven new investments, demonstrating its active engagement in the startup ecosystem. The firm continues to publish updates on its portfolio and investment activities, reflecting its commitment to bridging academia and industry.
OUVC's notable exit includes the IPO of Kringle Pharma in 2018, marking a significant milestone for the firm. The organization is also expected to participate actively in the BIO International Convention 2025, showcasing its portfolio and investment strategy.
What are OUVC's investment criteria?
OUVC invests in early-stage startups primarily in sectors such as biotech, healthcare, AI, climate, energy, and consumer products. The firm looks for innovative solutions that address significant social challenges and leverage academic research.
How can startups apply or pitch to OUVC?
Startups can pitch to OUVC through their website at OUVC. It is recommended to include a detailed business plan, market analysis, and information on the founding team in the pitch deck.
What makes OUVC different from other venture capital firms?
OUVC uniquely combines academic research with industry needs, providing startups access to university resources, management expertise, and networking opportunities. This connection enhances the potential for innovation and growth.
What is OUVC's geographic scope?
OUVC primarily focuses on investments in North America and Asia, with a strong emphasis on Japanese university spinouts and international collaborations through its Silicon Valley office.
What is the typical check size for investments?
OUVC typically invests between $1 million and $10 million in its portfolio companies, allowing for substantial support during the early stages of development.
What kind of post-investment involvement does OUVC have?
OUVC provides extensive post-investment support, including management guidance, business development resources, and access to academic research, which helps portfolio companies scale effectively.
All trademarks, logos and brand names are the property of their respective owners. All company, product and service names used in this website are for identification purposes only. Use of these names, trademarks, and brands does not imply endorsement.