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Shizen Capital is a venture capital firm founded in 2021 and based in Japan. The firm focuses on investing in sustainable and impactful ventures that contribute positively to society and the environment. Shizen Capital aims to support companies that prioritize sustainability, thereby fostering positive change and driving social impact.
As of now, Shizen Capital has approximately 10 portfolio companies and has tracked 9 investments. The firm operates with a data-driven, operator-first investment approach, emphasizing the importance of both financial and operational support for its portfolio companies. The organization is independent and not affiliated with any corporate entity.
Shizen Capital is also known for its Sprout GP-in-training initiative, which develops emerging fund managers, and has successfully produced its first female investor through this program. Additionally, the firm powers the Angel Zeisei Fund, which unlocks venture investment opportunities for individual investors in Japan.
Shizen Capital focuses on investing in sectors related to sustainability and social impact, specifically targeting climate, healthcare, and consumer sectors. The firm invests at the pre-seed, seed, and seed+ (extension) stages, primarily within Asia and Japan. Shizen Capital seeks to support early-stage companies that align with its mission of fostering positive change and contributing to a better future.
The firm’s core thesis emphasizes the digital transformation of enterprises in Japan, investing in both domestic startups and foreign startups entering the Japanese market. Shizen Capital values a balanced approach to business and life, as reflected in its philosophy of 'Shizen,' which translates to 'nature' in Japanese. The firm looks for founders who are committed to sustainability and social impact, and it prefers to provide financial, operational, and strategic support to its portfolio companies.
Shizen Capital has invested in a variety of notable companies that align with its focus on sustainability and social impact. The portfolio includes:
These companies span various sectors, including financial services, software, and generative AI, reflecting Shizen Capital's commitment to investing in ventures that drive positive societal and environmental change.
Mark Bivens: Co-founder & Managing Partner. Mark is a prolific VC in Japan, having led over 30 deals across various stages. He is also known for writing the 'RudeVC' blog and has a background as both a VC and entrepreneur.
Matt Romaine: Co-founder. Matt previously co-founded and served as CEO of Gengo, a global people-powered translation platform. He is a startup-founder-turned-VC, a relatively rare profile in Japan.
Mayumi Wakebe: Partner at Shizen Capital, contributing her expertise in investment strategies and portfolio management.
Naoki Hirukawa: A key team member with a background in venture capital and startup ecosystems.
Mayumi Maruyoshi: Another important member of the team, bringing valuable insights into the investment process.
Venture Partners include Nobu Iguchi, Mark Tan, Adrien Jelic, Stéphane Bittoun, Loic Rethore, and Jay Winder, each contributing diverse expertise and networks to the firm.
To pitch Shizen Capital, founders should use the email address pitch@shizen.vc. It is recommended to include a comprehensive pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and alignment with the firm's focus on sustainability. Founders should expect a response within a few weeks, but timelines may vary based on the volume of inquiries.
In recent activity, Shizen Capital led a pre-seed investment in xMap, a generative AI geospatial solution for real estate site assessment, featuring a MENA-founded team with University of Tokyo credentials. Mark Bivens was quoted as the Managing Partner in this investment announcement.
Additionally, Shizen Capital invested in Aquila Systems, a healthcare company focused on lean solutions. These investments reflect the firm's commitment to supporting innovative startups that align with its sustainability and social impact mission.
What are Shizen Capital's investment criteria?
Shizen Capital invests in early-stage companies that focus on sustainability and social impact. The firm looks for startups in sectors such as climate, healthcare, and consumer goods, primarily at the pre-seed, seed, and seed+ stages.
How can I pitch to Shizen Capital?
Interested parties can reach out via email at pitch@shizen.vc. It is advisable to include a detailed pitch deck outlining your business model, market opportunity, and alignment with Shizen Capital's focus on sustainability.
What makes Shizen Capital different from other VCs?
Shizen Capital emphasizes a balanced approach to business and life, guided by its philosophy of 'Shizen' (nature). The firm provides not only financial support but also operational and strategic guidance to its portfolio companies.
What is the geographic focus of Shizen Capital?
The firm primarily invests in Asia, with a strong emphasis on the Japanese market. It also considers foreign startups that are entering Japan.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not disclosed, Shizen Capital invests at the pre-seed, seed, and seed+ stages, which typically involve smaller initial investments compared to later-stage funding.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Shizen Capital have?
Shizen Capital is known for its active involvement in the growth of its portfolio companies, providing operational support and strategic guidance to help them scale effectively.
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