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.
SoftBank Investment Advisers, founded in 2017, is a prominent venture capital firm headquartered in London. It operates as a subsidiary of SoftBank Group Corp. The firm manages the SoftBank Vision Funds, which are recognized as the world's largest technology-focused investment vehicles, boasting an impressive $166 billion in assets under management (AUM). SoftBank Investment Advisers has established offices in Silicon Valley and Tokyo, enhancing its global reach.
The Vision Funds, which include Vision Fund 1 with $98.6 billion and Vision Fund 2 with approximately $56-66 billion, have collectively invested in 332 companies. Both funds are now closed to new commitments, marking a significant milestone in the firm's investment history. SoftBank Group has notably shifted its focus towards AI infrastructure, reflecting the evolving landscape of technology investments.
SoftBank Investment Advisers primarily targets growth-stage companies across various sectors, including artificial intelligence (AI), consumer services, fintech, logistics, and software as a service (SaaS). The firm typically invests between $50 million and $1 billion, with a preference for larger checks, often exceeding $200 million. Their investment strategy emphasizes direct AI infrastructure, aligning with their belief that the AI Revolution is underway.
Geographically, SoftBank's investments span North America, Europe, Asia, Latin America, and Southeast Asia, showcasing a truly global investment approach. The firm has pivoted from being a mega-round late-stage investor to focusing on direct investments in AI infrastructure, including significant commitments such as $34.6 billion in OpenAI, where they hold an 11% stake, and the Stargate Project, a $500 billion partnership aimed at enhancing AI capabilities.
SoftBank Investment Advisers has a diverse portfolio of 332 companies across its Vision Funds. Notable companies include:
SoftBank's recent pivot towards AI is highlighted by their substantial investments in OpenAI and the Stargate Project, as well as direct acquisitions in the chip and robotics sectors, including Ampere Computing for $6.5 billion and ABB Robotics for $5.4 billion.
Masayoshi Son - Chairman & CEO, SoftBank Group Corp. He is the driving force behind SoftBank's vision and investment strategy.
Alex Clavel - CEO, SoftBank Investment Advisers. He leads the firm's operations and investment strategies.
Brett Rochkind - Managing Partner, Americas. He oversees investments in the Americas region.
Faisal Rehman - Senior Adviser. He provides strategic insights and guidance.
Greg Moon - Executive Managing Partner. He plays a key role in managing the firm's investments.
Kentaro Matsui - Managing Partner, Asia. He focuses on investments in the Asian market.
Mark Agne - Managing Partner, Head of Capital Strategies. He leads capital strategy initiatives.
Ron Fisher - Senior Adviser. He offers expertise in investment strategies.
Saleh Romeih - Senior Adviser. He provides insights into market trends.
Sumer Juneja - Managing Partner, Head of EMEA & India Investing. He oversees investments in Europe, the Middle East, and India.
Vikas J. Parekh - Managing Partner, Americas. He is involved in investment decisions in the Americas.
To pitch SoftBank Investment Advisers, startups should submit their proposals through the firm's website or reach out directly to their offices. A detailed pitch deck should include information about the business model, market opportunity, competitive landscape, and team qualifications. Response times may vary, but founders should expect a thorough review process.
SoftBank Investment Advisers runs the Sōzō Insights program, which serves as a knowledge-sharing platform for insights from the SoftBank founder ecosystem. This program includes quarterly surveys and data analysis focused on the entrepreneurial experience, providing valuable resources for startups and investors alike.
On November 1, 2025, SoftBank Investment Advisers made its latest investment, continuing its active engagement in the market. In FY2024, the firm reported a $4.6 billion gain, marking its first annual gain in three years. This positive trend reflects the firm's strategic pivot towards AI infrastructure and its significant investments in companies like OpenAI and the Stargate Project.
Q?
What are SoftBank Investment Advisers' investment criteria?
SoftBank focuses on growth-stage companies in sectors such as AI, fintech, logistics, and consumer services. They typically invest between $50 million and $1 billion, with a preference for larger checks.
Q?
How can startups apply or pitch to SoftBank Investment Advisers?
Startups can reach out through their website or contact their offices directly. A well-prepared pitch deck highlighting the business model, market potential, and team is essential.
Q?
What makes SoftBank Investment Advisers different from other investors?
SoftBank is distinguished by its massive capital base, patient investment approach, and a strong focus on AI infrastructure. Their global network and strategic partnerships enhance their portfolio companies' growth potential.
Q?
What is the geographic scope of SoftBank's investments?
SoftBank invests globally, with a focus on North America, Europe, Asia, Latin America, and Southeast Asia.
Q?
What is SoftBank's post-investment involvement like?
SoftBank provides operational support and access to its extensive network, which can be beneficial for portfolio companies in scaling their operations.
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.