WERU Investment Co., Ltd.

Overview

Established in 1998, WERU Investment Co., Ltd. is Japan's first university-fueled independent venture capital firm, specializing in seed and early-stage investments in technology startups both domestically and internationally. The firm emerged from the Waseda University Entrepreneurial Research Unit (WERU), reflecting its strong academic roots and commitment to fostering innovation. WERU Investment employs a research-driven approach, leveraging its extensive network and expertise to identify promising ventures in sectors such as aerospace, information technology, life sciences, and virtual reality. The firm has a history of supporting companies like LeoLabs, Zuva, and CoreTissue BioEngineering, contributing to their growth and success in the global market. In recent years, WERU Investment has expanded its collaborative efforts, notably forming a comprehensive business partnership with Kanematsu Corporation in December 2021. This alliance aims to combine WERU's expertise in cutting-edge technology sectors with Kanematsu's diverse business knowledge to accelerate the creation of new global businesses and startups. Additionally, in March 2024, WERU Investment co-established the Nippon Cyber Security Fund 1 Investment Limited Partnership, Japan's first fund dedicated to investing in cybersecurity companies, underscoring its commitment to addressing emerging industry challenges. Through these strategic initiatives, WERU Investment continues to play a pivotal role in bridging academia, industry, and capital markets, driving innovation and contributing to the economic development of Japan and beyond.

Investment Focus

• Innovative technology
• Scalable business model
• Strong management team

Portfolio Companies