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Shizen Capital is a venture capital firm founded in 2021 and based in Japan. The organization is dedicated to investing in sustainable and impactful ventures that contribute positively to society and the environment. Shizen Capital operates with a data-driven, operator-first investment approach, focusing on early-stage companies that align with its mission of fostering positive change through sustainability.
The firm has a team of experienced professionals, including co-founders Mark Bivens and Matthew Romaine, who bring extensive backgrounds in venture capital and entrepreneurship. Shizen Capital has approximately 10 portfolio companies and has made 9 tracked investments. The firm is independent and not affiliated with any corporate entity, allowing for a more flexible investment strategy.
Shizen Capital is located in Tokyo and has developed a reputation for its commitment to sustainability and social impact. The firm also runs initiatives such as the Sprout GP-in-training program, which aims to develop emerging fund managers, and the Angel Zeisei Fund, which unlocks venture investment opportunities for individual investors in Japan.
Shizen Capital focuses on investing in sectors related to sustainability, including climate, healthcare, and consumer markets. The firm targets early-stage companies at the pre-seed, seed, and seed+ (extension) stages, primarily within Japan and the broader Asian market. Shizen Capital seeks to support ventures that prioritize sustainability and social impact, aligning with its core thesis of fostering positive change.
The investment strategy emphasizes a balanced approach to business and life, reflecting the philosophy of 'Shizen,' which translates to 'nature' in Japanese. Shizen Capital looks for founders who demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and have innovative ideas that can contribute to a better future. The firm values operational, financial, and strategic support in its investments, ensuring that portfolio companies receive comprehensive assistance as they grow.
Shizen Capital has invested in a diverse range of companies that align with its focus on sustainability and social impact. Notable portfolio companies include:
These companies span various sectors, including financial services, software, generative AI, and healthcare, reflecting Shizen Capital's commitment to supporting innovative solutions that drive social impact.
Mark Bivens: Co-founder & Managing Partner. Mark is a prolific venture capitalist 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.
Matthew Romaine: Co-founder. Matthew 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. Mayumi brings expertise in venture capital and has been instrumental in supporting Shizen Capital's mission.
Naoki Hirukawa: Team member with a background in venture capital and startup support.
Mayumi Maruyoshi: Team member contributing to Shizen Capital's investment strategy.
Nobu Iguchi: Venture Partner with experience in various sectors.
Mark Tan: Venture Partner with a focus on technology investments.
Adrien Jelic: Venture Partner with expertise in international markets.
Stéphane Bittoun: Venture Partner with a background in finance.
Loic Rethore: Venture Partner with experience in startup ecosystems.
Jay Winder: Venture Partner with a focus on operational support.
To pitch Shizen Capital, founders should use the email address pitch@shizen.vc. The pitch deck should include a clear overview of the business model, market opportunity, and how the startup aligns with Shizen Capital's focus on sustainability and social impact. Founders should expect a response within a reasonable timeframe, though specific timelines are not disclosed.
In recent activity, Shizen Capital led a pre-seed investment in xMap, a generative AI geospatial solution for real estate site assessment, featuring a team with University of Tokyo credentials. Mark Bivens, as Managing Partner, was quoted regarding this investment.
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 focus.
What are Shizen Capital's investment criteria?
Shizen Capital invests in early-stage companies that focus on sustainability and social impact. The firm targets sectors such as climate, healthcare, and consumer markets, primarily in Japan and Asia.
How can I apply or pitch to Shizen Capital?
Interested parties can reach out via email at pitch@shizen.vc to submit their pitches or applications.
What makes Shizen Capital different from other venture capital firms?
Shizen Capital emphasizes sustainability and social impact in its investment strategy. The firm operates independently, allowing for a flexible approach to supporting early-stage companies. Additionally, Shizen Capital runs initiatives like the Sprout GP-in-training program to develop emerging fund managers.
What is the geographic scope of Shizen Capital's investments?
Shizen Capital primarily invests in Japan and the broader Asian market, focusing on startups that align with its sustainability mission.
What is the typical fund size or check size for investments?
While specific fund sizes are not disclosed, Shizen Capital invests at the pre-seed, seed, and seed+ stages, indicating a focus on early-stage funding.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Shizen Capital have?
Shizen Capital provides operational, financial, and strategic support to its portfolio companies, ensuring they have the resources needed to grow and succeed.
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