Kyoto University Innovation Capital

Kyoto University Innovation Capital is an investment firm.

Active

Updated: Mar 15, 2026 ·

About

Kyoto University Innovation Capital Co., Ltd. (KYOTO-iCAP) is a venture capital firm established in December 2014. It operates as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Kyoto University, reflecting its close ties to academic innovation. The firm serves as the General Partner for its venture funds, including KYOTO-iCAP Fund No.3 and KYOTO-iCAP Fund II, which are designed to support new ventures.

Through its investment activities, KYOTO-iCAP aims to foster the creation and growth of startups, leveraging the research and development capabilities originating from Kyoto University and its broader ecosystem. This structure allows the firm to bridge academic research with commercial application, contributing to the venture landscape.

Financial History

Total Raised

N/A

Valuation

N/A

Investments Made

Date	Company	Round	Lead Investor(s)	Co-Investor(s)
Jan 30, 2026	LOOPARTS	Seed	—	Akira Nagao, Hibiki Nishikawa, Jin Uehara, Ren Uechi, Shohei Yamada

Financial History

Total Raised

N/A

Valuation

N/A

Deep Dive

Kyoto University Innovation Capital Co., Ltd. (KYOTO-iCAP) was founded in December 2014 as a venture capital company. It is structured as a 100%-funded subsidiary of Kyoto University, underscoring its direct connection to the university's research and innovation initiatives. This ownership model positions KYOTO-iCAP as a key entity in commercializing academic advancements.

The firm functions as the General Partner for its investment vehicles, managing funds such as KYOTO-iCAP Fund No.3 and KYOTO-iCAP Fund II. These funds are capitalized by various Limited Partners, which for KYOTO-iCAP Fund No.3 have included corporate entities like Astellas Pharma Inc. and financial institutions such as The Senshu Ikeda Bank, Ltd.

KYOTO-iCAP's operational focus extends to supporting startup creation and fostering entrepreneurial talent. Its activities are designed to identify and nurture promising ventures that emerge from the university's research ecosystem, aiming to translate scientific discoveries into viable commercial enterprises.

By providing capital and strategic support, KYOTO-iCAP plays a role in the broader venture ecosystem, particularly within Japan. Its mission aligns with promoting innovation and contributing to a sustainable society through the development of new technologies and businesses.

Sources

Frequently Asked Questions

What role does Kyoto University Innovation Capital play in its venture funds?

The firm acts as the General Partner for its venture funds, including KYOTO-iCAP Fund No.3 and KYOTO-iCAP Fund II.

Are there specific types of investors that participate in Kyoto University Innovation Capital's funds?

Limited Partners in its funds have included corporations such as Astellas Pharma Inc. and financial institutions like The Senshu Ikeda Bank, Ltd.