Vertex Ventures Japan (VVJ) has announced the first close of its debut fund, Vertex Ventures Japan Fund I (VVJFI), targeting JPY 10 billion. The close marks a significant milestone for the venture capital firm, which plans to invest in Japan’s emerging startups and help them expand internationally. Support from key limited partners (LPs) across industry, government, and academia – along with backing from government institutions – has helped lay a strong foundation for the fund’s long-term ambitions.
With this launch, VVJ aims to contribute to Japan’s growing startup ecosystem and its emergence as a global innovation hub. The firm is anchored by Vertex Holdings, a wholly owned subsidiary of Temasek Holdings, providing both funding and strategic direction.
Alongside the fund close, VVJ has also announced additions to its leadership team. These appointments aim to enhance its investment strategy and enable Japanese startups to tap into global markets by securing growth capital, forming strategic partnerships, and expanding business opportunities.
Connecting Japanese startups to global opportunities
VVJ’s goal is to develop global champions from Japan by facilitating strategic collaborations with key international market leaders. The firm believes that for startups to scale effectively, access to capital must be combined with meaningful global partnerships. These collaborations support market entry, technology integration, and business expansion.
The Vertex network has already helped several startups grow into global players, including Grab, the Southeast Asian super-app; Waze, the Israel-based navigation platform acquired by Google; Geek+, a robotics company specialising in AI logistics; and Horizon Robotics, a Chinese firm focused on autonomous driving technologies.
VVJ plans to leverage this global investment network and its strong industry connections to offer Japanese startups access to innovation hubs in Southeast Asia, India, the United States, Israel, and China.
Industry veterans join to lead investment strategy
To strengthen its leadership, VVJ has brought on board two seasoned professionals. Naonori Kurokawa, with more than 15 years of experience in deep-tech investment, has been appointed as General Partner. Akiko Kihara, a founding member of Japanese e-commerce giant ZOZO, has joined as Venture Partner.
Kurokawa, who previously worked with ARCH Venture Partners, brings a strong background in areas such as semiconductors, optics, biotech, and regenerative medicine. His investment track record includes companies like Microwave Chemical, 908 Devices Inc, and FLOSFIA. At VVJ, he will work closely with startups to enhance their technological competitiveness and support their international growth.
Kihara played a key role in leading ZOZO to its IPO and reaching a market capitalisation of JPY 1 trillion. She led the development and expansion of ZOZOTOWN, strengthened merchant partnerships, and managed business strategy and operations. In her role at VVJ, she will advise startups on business development, global expansion, and growth strategies.
Backed by experienced leadership
VVJ is led by Managing Partner Takashi Tomita, who plays a key role in connecting global capital with Japan’s startup ecosystem. With experience in global financial institutions, Tomita supports startups in navigating international markets while maximising the benefits of the Vertex network.
Chairing the investment committee is Chua Kee Lock, CEO of Vertex Holdings and Managing Partner of Vertex Ventures SEA & India. With previous leadership roles at Biosensors International, Walden International, and other companies, Chua brings deep insight into growth markets, fintech, AI, and mobility.
Vice Chairman of the Investment Committee, Chua Taik Him, formerly served as Deputy Managing Director at Singapore’s Economic Development Board and Enterprise Singapore. He is known for his role in building Singapore’s startup ecosystem and now supports Japanese startups in forming international alliances for long-term success.
