
Mobile Internet Capital
Description
Mobile Internet Capital (MIC) is a prominent Tokyo-based venture capital firm with a long-standing presence in the Japanese and broader Asian technology investment landscape. Established in 2003, MIC initially focused on the nascent mobile internet sector, but has since broadened its investment mandate to encompass a wider array of digital transformation technologies. The firm primarily targets early to mid-stage companies, typically from Seed to Series B rounds, demonstrating a commitment to nurturing growth from foundational stages. MIC's strategic approach involves identifying innovative startups that leverage cutting-edge technologies to disrupt traditional industries or create new markets.
Over two decades, MIC has demonstrated consistent fundraising success, reflecting its robust investment thesis and strong limited partner relationships. The firm has successfully raised multiple funds, with its latest, the MIC No. 5 Investment Limited Partnership, closing at an impressive JPY 15 billion (approximately $97 million USD) in 2022. This substantial capital base enables MIC to provide significant financial backing to its portfolio companies, often taking lead or co-lead positions in funding rounds. Their investment scope extends beyond pure mobile plays to include areas such as IoT, AI, FinTech, Healthcare IT, and other deep tech solutions that drive digital innovation.
MIC's typical first check sizes are designed to support companies through critical early growth phases. While they can participate in larger syndicated rounds, their initial investments generally range from tens of millions to hundreds of millions of Japanese Yen. Specifically, this translates to a typical minimum check size of approximately $130,000 USD (around 20 million JPY) for early-stage ventures, extending up to approximately $3.2 million USD (around 500 million JPY) for more mature Series A or B opportunities where they might lead. Beyond capital, MIC is known for providing strategic support, leveraging its extensive network and industry expertise to help portfolio companies scale, enter new markets, and navigate complex business challenges, particularly within the Japanese ecosystem.
Investor Profile
Mobile Internet Capital has backed more than 26 startups, with 5 new investments in the last 12 months alone. The firm has led 5 rounds, about 19% of its total and boasts 24 exits across its portfolio.
Investment Focus Highlights
- Concentrates on Series A, Series Unknown, Series B rounds (top funding stages).
- Majority of deals are located in Japan, United States, United Kingdom.
- Strong thematic focus on Software, SaaS, Mobile.
- Led 1 rounds in the past year.
- Typical check size: $130K – $3.2M.
Stage Focus
- Series A (27%)
- Series Unknown (19%)
- Series B (15%)
- Seed (15%)
- Series E (8%)
- Series F (4%)
- Private Equity (4%)
- Series C (4%)
- Series G (4%)
Country Focus
- Japan (69%)
- United States (23%)
- United Kingdom (4%)
- Sweden (4%)
Industry Focus
- Software
- Saas
- Mobile
- Information Technology
- Telecommunications
- Wireless
- Finance
- Medical
- Cloud Computing
- Cloud Data Services
Frequently Asked Questions
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