#Japan #Tokyo #Startup #VC Fund #PARTY

Creative Group PARTY Launches a New Venture Capital Fund

In an ambitious move marking a significant advancement in Japan's startup ecosystem, creative firm PARTY, headquartered in Shibuya, Tokyo, is set to launch a seed-specific venture capital fund named PARTY STARTUP STUDIO FUND. Led by chief partner Hiroki Nakamura, this fund boasts a hefty backing of approximately 1 billion yen. This initiative embodies the theme of creating what's deemed “awesome” and generating experiences that excite and engage.

Mission and Philosophy

PARTY has consistently operated under the mission of 'installing future experiences into society'. With an impressive portfolio of projects covering spatial design, rebranding, and innovative service development, PARTY is well-positioned to make a meaningful impact in the entrepreneurship landscape. As it approaches its 15th anniversary in April 2026, the launch of this fund is a strategic expansion of its creative endeavors into the venture capital domain.

A Unique Funding Approach

Unlike conventional venture capital funding, PARTY STARTUP STUDIO FUND prioritizes collaboration in key areas such as marketing strategy, public relations, user experience design, and more. It’s not just about capital; it's about co-creating impactful ventures.

Key Features of the Fund:

1. Collaborative Support in Marketing and PR: Nakamura brings 25 years of experience in digital advertising, especially from his time at Dentsu and PARTY. The fund is designed to fill the gaps that traditional financial investors might overlook, providing support in aggressive marketing strategies.
2. Utilization of PARTY’s Creative Assets: Backing from a creative powerhouse means leveraging their extensive networks, execution capabilities, and PR design skills to facilitate successful startups.
3. Zero-to-One Co-Creation: Building on Nakamura's expertise in startup creation and the insights from incubate funds, this venture aims to actively engage in entrepreneurship, working alongside founders to turn concepts into reality.

Investment Themes and Vision

The fund will focus on critical themes essential for invigorating startup growth:
1. Generating enthusiasm through existing markets and communities, such as fan-driven projects and collaborative models.
2. Projects that can grow through combining creativity and marketing.
3. Creating new experiences powered by technological advancements.

Statements from Key Individuals

Hiroki Nakamura, Chief Partner

As someone who has witnessed global creativity for the past 25 years, Nakamura believes Japan's tech and creative capabilities are world-class. However, he emphasizes the transformative need for superior marketing and promotional strategies to ensure groundbreaking ideas do not remain hidden. He envisions PARTY STARTUP STUDIO FUND as more than just a financial resource, aiming to jointly craft strategies spanning marketing, creativity, and user experience.

Yusuke Murata, from Incubate Fund

Murata commends Nakamura's reputed creative prowess and expresses excitement about the novel approach of running a VC studio in Japan. He anticipates engaging with various unique concepts that will arise through this fund, particularly as AI continues to shape the world.

Goji Araki, from MIXI

Araki has committed to contributing to the fund, valuing Nakamura's ability to translate creativity into executable marketing strategies. This collaboration is expected to explore new potential avenues for MIXI's portfolio.

Kosuke Shiraishi, from Kulture

Having collaborated on multiple projects with PARTY, Shiraishi recognizes the potent blend of creativity and technology. His investment reflects a desire to witness the innovative projects that will emerge from this new fund.

Fund Overview

• - Name: PARTY No.1 Investment Limited Liability Partnership
• - General Partner: Combo No.1 Limited Liability Partnership (Members: Hiroki Nakamura, Combo)
• - Fund Size: Approximately 1 Billion Yen
• - Establishment Date: March 2026
• - Investment Amount: 20 to 50 Million Yen per company
• - Major Investors: IFLP3, MIXI, Kulture, PARTY, Biscuit Entertainment, dof, and others.

About PARTY

As a creative group dedicated to installing future experiences into society, PARTY has made significant contributions across various projects, such as designing Terminal 3 at Narita Airport and merging the latest technology with storytelling in numerous initiatives. Beyond just creative arts, it is committed to developing new ventures alongside entrepreneurs, providing zero-to-one development and investment support through the PARTY STARTUP STUDIO FUND.
For more information, visit PARTY.