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Tohoku University Venture Partners Co., Ltd. (THVP) was established in February 2015 as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Tohoku University, located in Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture, Japan. The organization focuses on supporting the social implementation of research outcomes from Tohoku University through strategic venture investments. THVP aims to commercialize innovative research, particularly in deep tech and life sciences, addressing pressing social issues while promoting sustainable development.
As of now, THVP manages a diverse portfolio of 27 companies, primarily in the biotech and healthcare sectors. The firm operates under the auspices of the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), which provides government backing for its initiatives. This support enhances THVP's ability to facilitate the growth of university-originated startups, ensuring they have access to essential resources and expertise.
THVP has launched two funds: THVP-1 in 2015 and THVP-2 in October 2020, with a specific focus on the Tohoku region. The organization continues to expand its influence within the Asian market, leveraging its strong ties to Tohoku University to foster innovation that enhances quality of life.
THVP concentrates on investing in startups that originate from Tohoku University, particularly in the fields of deep tech and life sciences. The organization is committed to addressing social issues and promoting sustainable societies through its investments. The typical check size ranges from $5 million to $10 million, allowing THVP to support startups at various stages, from seed to growth.
The investment team at THVP comprises experienced professionals with backgrounds in research and business development, ensuring a strong foundation for supporting innovative ventures. The firm seeks to partner with founders who demonstrate a clear vision for their startups and a commitment to leveraging academic research for market solutions. THVP's investment strategy emphasizes the importance of aligning with startups that aim to solve significant societal challenges while ensuring economic viability.
THVP's portfolio includes a diverse array of companies, primarily focused on biotech and healthcare. Notable portfolio companies include:
These companies exemplify THVP's commitment to fostering innovation that addresses critical healthcare and technological challenges. The firm actively supports its portfolio companies by providing access to cutting-edge research and industry connections, facilitating their growth and market entry.
佐藤 耕司 (Koji Sato) - President. Koji Sato has extensive experience in venture capital and has been instrumental in leading THVP since its inception.
吉井 一浩 (Kazuhiro Yoshii) - Outside Director. Kazuhiro Yoshii brings a wealth of knowledge from his background in corporate governance and strategic planning.
高橋 祥子 (Yoshiko Takahashi) - Outside Director. Yoshiko Takahashi has a strong background in finance and investment, contributing to THVP's strategic direction.
長尾 昂 (Takashi Nagao) - Outside Director. Takashi Nagao has expertise in technology commercialization and has played a key role in THVP's investment strategy.
保田 隆明 (Takaaki Yasuda) - Outside Auditor. Takaaki Yasuda provides oversight and ensures compliance with financial regulations.
遠山 毅 (Takeshi Toyama) - Outside Auditor. Takeshi Toyama has a background in auditing and financial management, contributing to THVP's governance.
石黒 駿介 (Shunsuke Ishiguro) - Corporate Planning Department Staff. Shunsuke Ishiguro supports strategic initiatives within THVP.
打矢 知紀 (Tomoki Uchiya) - Administration Department General Manager. Tomoki Uchiya oversees administrative functions and ensures operational efficiency.
坂井 良行 (Yoshiyuki Sakai) - Investment Department Vice President. Yoshiyuki Sakai leads investment activities and manages relationships with portfolio companies.
重盛 智大 (Tomohiro Shigemori) - Investment Department Vice President. Tomohiro Shigemori focuses on sourcing and evaluating new investment opportunities.
津國 浩之 (Hiroyuki Tsunokuni) - Investment Department Executive Officer General Manager. Hiroyuki Tsunokuni oversees the investment team and strategy.
長浜 勉 (Tsutomu Nagahama) - Investment Department Vice President. Tsutomu Nagahama is involved in deal structuring and portfolio management.
中森 文洋 (Fumihiro Nakamori) - Investment Department Vice President. Fumihiro Nakamori focuses on market analysis and investment strategy.
橋本 紗由美 (Sayumi Hashimoto) - Investment Department Senior Associate. Sayumi Hashimoto supports due diligence and investment processes.
眞木 晴季 (Haruki Maki) - Administration Department Staff. Haruki Maki assists with administrative tasks and operational support.
To pitch to THVP, startups should use the contact form available on their website at thvp.co.jp. It is essential to include a detailed business plan, highlighting how the startup leverages academic research and addresses social issues. THVP typically responds within a few weeks, and warm introductions are preferred but not mandatory.
In March 2024, THVP co-led a ¥210 million (~$1.4 million) Series A Extension for RevolKa Ltd., a company focused on AI-driven protein engineering and rare disease drug discovery. This investment highlights THVP's commitment to supporting innovative healthcare solutions.
In October 2020, THVP launched its second fund, THVP-2, which specifically targets startups in the Tohoku region. This fund aims to enhance local innovation and economic development.
THVP has been active in the international biotech ecosystem, presenting at the BIO International Convention in 2024. This participation underscores the firm's dedication to connecting its portfolio companies with global opportunities.
What are THVP's investment criteria?
THVP focuses on university-originated startups, particularly in deep tech and life sciences. The firm seeks companies that address social issues and promote sustainable development.
How can startups apply or pitch to THVP?
Startups can pitch to THVP through their website at thvp.co.jp. It is recommended to include a clear business plan and details on how the startup leverages academic research.
What makes THVP different from other venture capital firms?
THVP is unique due to its strong ties to Tohoku University, providing portfolio companies with access to cutting-edge research and expert mentorship. This connection enhances the support offered to startups, facilitating their growth and market entry.
What is THVP's geographic scope?
THVP primarily invests in startups based in Japan, particularly those originating from Tohoku University. However, the firm is also active in the broader Asian market.
What is the typical check size for investments?
THVP typically invests between $5 million and $10 million in its portfolio companies, allowing for significant support at various stages of development.
What kind of post-investment involvement does THVP have?
THVP provides ongoing support to its portfolio companies through mentorship, access to research resources, and industry connections, ensuring they have the tools needed for success.
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