DeNA

DeNA Co., Ltd., a prominent Japanese internet and mobile gaming company, actively engages in venture capital through its corporate venture capital arm, DeNA Capital. Established in 2011, DeNA Capital was founded with an initial fund size of 5 billion Japanese Yen, approximately $60 million at the time, dedicated to investing in promising startups both domestically and internationally. This strategic investment vehicle allows DeNA to explore new technologies and business models that complement its core operations in gaming, e-commerce, and other web services.

DeNA Capital's investment strategy is broad, encompassing various stages from seed to Series C, with a strong focus on areas synergistic with DeNA's expertise. These include mobile internet, artificial intelligence, healthcare technology, sports tech, entertainment, and emerging digital platforms. The fund seeks to identify and support innovative companies that can leverage DeNA's extensive operational experience, market insights, and network. By 2019, DeNA Capital's fund size had expanded to 10 billion Japanese Yen, roughly $90 million, reflecting an increased commitment to its investment activities and a broader scope for larger, more impactful deals.

The firm acts as a strategic partner, often participating in rounds alongside other venture capital firms. Its portfolio includes over 100 investments in a diverse array of companies, demonstrating its commitment to fostering innovation across multiple sectors. Notable investments include companies in news aggregation, live streaming, and e-commerce, showcasing DeNA's interest in platforms that drive user engagement and digital transformation. DeNA's investment approach is characterized by a long-term perspective, aiming to build lasting relationships with its portfolio companies and contribute to their growth beyond mere capital injection.