Vertex Ventures Japan launches with US$67M fund to propel Japanese startups globally

Vertex Ventures Japan (VVJ), a new entity within the Vertex Holdings network, has announced the first close of its inaugural fund, Vertex Ventures Japan Fund I (VVJFI), targeting JPY 10 Billion (approximately US$67 million).

Vertex Holdings, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Singapore’s Temasek Holdings, has joined as the anchor investor, providing a foundation for VVJ to facilitate Japanese startups’ access to major global markets and accelerate their expansion.

The new fund will focus on high-growth sectors, including deeptech, AI, digital transformation, and the creator economy.

As part of the Vertex network, which manages over US$6 billion in assets under management, Vertex Ventures Japan aims to serve as a bridge between global capital and Japan’s technological innovation, contributing to the establishment of Japan as a key global innovation hub.

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VVJ will leverage the extensive global investment network and deep understanding of emerging markets within the broader Vertex group, including Grab, Waze, Geek+, and Horizon Robotics. Japanese startups can also access innovation hubs in Southeast Asia, India, the US, Israel, and China through the Vertex global platform.

Along with this, Vertex Ventures Japan has strengthened its leadership team. Naonori Kurokawa has joined General Partner and Akiko Kihara as Venture Partner.

Kurokawa brings over 15 years of experience as a deep-tech investor. His past investments include Microwave Chemical and 908 Devices Inc., with expertise across various sectors, including chemicals, semiconductors, and biotechnology.

Kihara, a founding member of ZOZO, played a pivotal role in its IPO and growth into a publicly listed firm with a market capitalisation of JPY 1 Trillion. She possesses extensive experience in business strategy, corporate development, and scaling operations, notably leading the launch of ZOZOTOWN.

Takashi Tomita will serve as a managing partner, acting as “a bridge between global capital and the Japanese market” and focusing on startups’ global scaling.

Chua Kee Lock, CEO of Vertex Holdings, will chair the Investment Committee, providing strategic guidance on growth markets and deep tech.

Chua Taik Him, former Deputy Managing Director of the Singapore Economic Development Board, takes on the role of Vice Chairman of the Investment Committee, specialising in building enterprise ecosystems and supporting strategic alliances.

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