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UntroD Capital, founded in 2015, is Japan's largest deep tech-focused venture capital firm. Originally established as Real Tech Holdings, the firm rebranded to UntroD to signify its expansion into unexplored areas of capitalism. The firm manages total capital exceeding 40 billion yen (approximately $400 million) and operates multiple funds, including the Real Tech Fund series and the Real Tech Global Fund, targeting both domestic and international deep tech startups.
UntroD Capital has a portfolio of around 100 companies, primarily focusing on seed and early-stage investments. The firm is headquartered in Japan and has made significant strides in supporting startups that address pressing global challenges such as healthcare, energy, and climate change. Notable milestones include the successful closure of the Real Tech Fund IV, which became the largest deep tech VC fund in Japan.
UntroD Capital specializes in seed and early-stage investments in deep tech startups that tackle significant societal challenges. The firm invests in sectors such as biotech, energy, and agtech, emphasizing innovative technologies that address issues like healthcare, climate change, and poverty. The typical check size ranges from several million yen to tens of millions, depending on the stage and potential of the startup.
Geographically, UntroD Capital focuses primarily on Japan, with a notable presence in other Asian markets. Approximately 70% of their portfolio companies emerge from universities or research institutions, reflecting the firm's commitment to fostering innovation in underfunded sectors. UntroD Capital provides hands-on support to its portfolio companies, including assistance with IP strategy, manufacturing, recruitment, and public relations, ensuring that startups have the resources they need to thrive.
UntroD Capital's portfolio includes a diverse range of companies that exemplify its focus on deep tech innovation. Notable portfolio companies include:
These companies represent the firm's commitment to investing in technologies that address critical global challenges, particularly in healthcare and sustainable practices.
Akihiko Nagata - President & CEO. Akihiko has extensive experience in venture capital and has led numerous successful investments in deep tech startups.
Yukihiro Maru - Representative Director. Yukihiro brings a wealth of knowledge in corporate strategy and investment management.
Akira Fujii - Director. Akira has a strong background in technology commercialization and has been instrumental in guiding startups through their growth phases.
Hajime Yamake - Director. Hajime specializes in operational support and has a track record of helping startups optimize their business processes.
Naoki Toen - Director. Naoki focuses on investment analysis and has a keen eye for identifying promising deep tech ventures.
Tetsu Ueshima - Director. Tetsu has experience in international business development and helps portfolio companies expand into global markets.
Daiki Kumagai - Director. Daiki is known for his expertise in market research and competitive analysis.
Henry Tao - Director. Henry has a background in engineering and technology, providing valuable insights into product development.
Fumiharu Muroka - Growth Manager. Fumiharu focuses on scaling operations and enhancing market presence for portfolio companies.
Mizuki Kinoshita - Growth Manager. Mizuki specializes in marketing strategies and brand development.
Yoshio Mitsui - Growth Manager. Yoshio has experience in financial management and helps startups with funding strategies.
Tatsuhiko Fujimoto - Growth Manager. Tatsuhiko focuses on partnership development and strategic alliances.
To pitch to UntroD Capital, founders should use the contact form available on their website at untrod.inc. The pitch deck should include a comprehensive overview of the business model, market analysis, and team background. Founders can expect a response within a few weeks, and warm introductions are preferred but not mandatory.
In 2023, UntroD Capital announced the successful closure of its Real Tech Fund IV, which raised ¥12.5 billion (approximately $85 million), marking it as the largest deep tech VC fund in Japan's history. This fund aims to support innovative startups addressing critical societal challenges.
Additionally, UntroD Capital has been actively promoting its portfolio companies through various channels, highlighting their contributions to tackling global issues such as healthcare and climate change. The firm continues to expand its reach and influence in the deep tech sector, reinforcing its commitment to fostering innovation.
What are UntroD Capital's investment criteria?
UntroD Capital focuses on seed and early-stage investments in deep tech startups that address significant societal challenges. They prioritize sectors such as biotech, energy, and agtech, and typically invest in companies that have a strong connection to research institutions or universities.
How can startups apply or pitch to UntroD Capital?
Startups can pitch to UntroD Capital through their website at untrod.inc. They recommend including a detailed business plan, market analysis, and information about the founding team in the pitch deck.
What makes UntroD Capital different from other venture capital firms?
UntroD Capital distinguishes itself by its deep tech specialization and hands-on support model. The firm provides extensive resources, including IP strategy, manufacturing assistance, and recruitment support, to help portfolio companies succeed.
What is the geographic scope of UntroD Capital's investments?
While primarily focused on Japan, UntroD Capital also invests in other Asian markets through its Real Tech Global Fund. The firm has a strong commitment to supporting startups outside of Tokyo, with over 70% of its portfolio companies located in other prefectures.
What is the typical check size for investments?
UntroD Capital typically invests several million yen to tens of millions in seed and early-stage startups, depending on the specific needs and potential of the company.
What kind of post-investment involvement does UntroD Capital have?
UntroD Capital maintains a hands-on approach post-investment, providing ongoing support in areas such as operational strategy, public relations, and connecting startups with large corporations and research institutions.
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