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Xora Innovation is a venture capital firm established in 2021 and based in Singapore. The firm focuses on supporting deep tech entrepreneurs who are transforming essential industries, particularly in artificial intelligence and clean energy. Xora Innovation combines financial investment with strategic support through its unique venture studio model, Xora Venture Labs, which incubates new ventures and provides extensive resources for growth.
Currently, Xora Innovation manages a portfolio of 20 companies and has a team of 17 members, including 7 partners and 1 venture partner. The firm has established partnerships with leading research institutions in Singapore, such as A*STAR, Nanyang Technological University (NTU), and the National University of Singapore (NUS). This collaboration enhances their ability to support startups in the deep tech sector.
Notable milestones include the recent exit of Celestial AI, which was acquired by Marvell in December 2025. This exit signals the firm's capability to identify and nurture high-potential startups in the deep tech space.
Xora Innovation invests primarily in three sectors: Compute & Communications, Energy, and AI in Physical Industries. The firm addresses the increasing demand for data movement and processing, promotes clean and affordable energy solutions, and leverages AI to innovate in engineering design, manufacturing, and transportation. Xora participates in Seed and Series A funding rounds, with an average round size of $25.4 million for Seed and $30.2 million for Series A investments.
The firm emphasizes long-term support for its portfolio companies, providing not only capital but also strategic domain expertise and access to a robust network of partnerships. Xora Innovation's investment strategy is centered around early-stage investments with growth-stage follow-ons, ensuring that they can support their companies throughout their development.
Xora Innovation's portfolio includes a diverse range of companies focused on deep tech and essential industries. Notable portfolio companies include:
As of February 2026, Xora Innovation has made 5 new investments in the last 12 months, demonstrating its active engagement in the deep tech sector.
Alan Thompson: Chief Executive Officer with extensive experience in venture capital and deep tech.
Phil Inagaki: Managing Partner & Chief Investment Officer, known for leading significant investments in AI and energy sectors.
Artem Smirnov: Partner with a background in technology commercialization and startup development.
Phoebe Tan: Partner specializing in operational support and strategic growth for portfolio companies.
Dickson Thian: VP, Investments, focusing on deal sourcing and evaluation.
Sofia Bensily: Senior Associate with expertise in market analysis and investment strategy.
Joel Leong: Director, Research & Analytics, responsible for data-driven insights into investment opportunities.
Hendy Handoko: Head, Legal, overseeing legal compliance and contract negotiations.
Shan Joo Lim: Head, Finance, managing financial operations and reporting.
Grace Chiang: Head, Marketing & Communications, enhancing the firm's visibility and outreach.
Kenny Jin: VP, HR Business Partner, focusing on talent acquisition and team development.
Huey Lin: Operations Manager, ensuring efficient operational processes.
Evon Chua: Executive Assistant & Legal Secretary, supporting the executive team.
Startups interested in pitching to Xora Innovation should send their proposals to startups@xora.vc. It is recommended to include a comprehensive deck that outlines the business model, technology, team, and market opportunity. Xora Innovation values detailed information and clarity in pitches. Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks.
In December 2025, Xora Innovation achieved a notable exit with the acquisition of Celestial AI by Marvell, marking a significant milestone for the firm.
As of early 2026, Xora Innovation has made 5 new investments in the last 12 months, expanding its portfolio to 20 companies focused on deep tech innovations.
What are Xora Innovation's investment criteria?
Xora Innovation focuses on deep tech startups in the sectors of AI, energy, and computing. They primarily invest in Seed and Series A stages, looking for companies that can transform essential industries through innovative technologies.
How can startups apply or pitch to Xora Innovation?
Startups can pitch to Xora Innovation by sending their proposals to the email address startups@xora.vc. It is advisable to include a detailed business plan and information about the team and technology.
What makes Xora Innovation different from other venture capital firms?
Xora Innovation combines capital investment with strategic support through its venture studio model, Xora Venture Labs. This approach allows them to incubate new ventures and provide extensive resources for portfolio companies.
What is Xora Innovation's geographic focus?
The firm primarily invests in Asia, with a strong emphasis on Singapore. They also have connections to North American markets, enhancing their reach and influence in the deep tech sector.
What is Xora Innovation's post-investment involvement like?
Xora Innovation provides long-term support to its portfolio companies, offering strategic domain expertise and access to a network of partnerships with leading research institutions. This support extends beyond capital, ensuring that companies receive the guidance needed for growth.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Xora Innovation typically invests an average of $25.4 million in Seed rounds and $30.2 million in Series A rounds, reflecting their commitment to supporting startups at critical stages of development.
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