Mizuho Bank

Mizuho Bank, as part of the broader Mizuho Financial Group, actively participates in the venture capital ecosystem primarily through its dedicated corporate venture capital (CVC) arm, Mizuho Ventures Co., Ltd. Established in 2014, Mizuho Ventures serves as the strategic investment vehicle for the financial group, focusing on identifying and supporting innovative startups that can bring new technologies, business models, or strategic value to Mizuho's extensive operations. This dedicated entity allows Mizuho to engage with the startup community more dynamically than traditional banking operations might permit.

Mizuho Ventures manages multiple investment funds, demonstrating a long-term commitment to the venture space. Its initial fund, launched upon establishment, had a size of JPY 5 billion, equivalent to approximately $45 million USD at the time. More recently, in 2021, Mizuho Ventures launched the Mizuho Growth Fund, targeting a significantly larger pool of JPY 30 billion, or roughly $270 million USD. These funds are strategically deployed across various sectors, including fintech, healthcare, artificial intelligence, IoT, and other deep technology areas, often seeking synergies with Mizuho's core banking, securities, and asset management businesses.

The investment strategy of Mizuho Ventures spans from early-stage to growth-stage companies, although their larger fund, the Mizuho Growth Fund, indicates an increasing appetite for more mature startups requiring substantial capital for scaling. While primarily focused on the Japanese market, Mizuho Ventures also explores international opportunities that align with its strategic objectives. Beyond providing capital, the firm leverages Mizuho Financial Group's vast network, industry expertise, and client base to offer strategic guidance and business development support to its portfolio companies, aiming to accelerate their growth and market penetration.

Mizuho Ventures acts as a bridge between the traditional financial sector and emerging technological innovations. Their typical first check sizes can vary significantly based on the stage and capital requirements of the target company, generally ranging from $500,000 for promising early-stage ventures to as much as $10,000,000 for more established growth-stage companies seeking larger rounds. This flexible approach allows them to participate in a diverse range of investment opportunities, reinforcing Mizuho's position as a key player in fostering innovation within the financial and technology landscapes.