Nikon Invests in New Venture Fund – aims to accelerate innovation and inorganic growth

Nikon Corporation (Nikon) today announced that Nikon and Geodesic Capital have established NFocus Fund, a new private fund, on August 6, with Nikon as the anchor limited partner. As set forth in its Medium-Term Management Plan (FY2022 - 2025), Nikon aims by 2030 to become a key technology solutions company in a global society where humans and machines co-create seamlessly. In order to achieve this goal and further the growth of Nikon, NFocus Fund will invest in early to mid-stage startups and collaborate with partners to enhance Nikon’s technological innovation in several fields of strategic interest.

NFocus Fund, a Geodesic Capital managed Fund, together with Nikon Ventures Corporation (NVC), a subsidiary of Nikon located in Belmont, California, will directly engage with startups and partners in North America and other key locations, fostering partnerships, developing human resources, and creating synergies to expand Nikon’s technological and business strategies. This partnership is based on Geodesic’s strong network within Silicon Valley, its understanding of Japanese companies and culture, and its track record of successful investments.

Hamid Zarringhalam, CEO of NVC, commented: “I am delighted to announce the formation of this fund together with our long standing partner Geodesic Capital. This strategic initiative will allow us to cultivate new technologies in Silicon Valley and beyond that will accelerate innovations required to meet the needs of society that have been articulated on our Vision 2030.”

John Roos, Founder of Geodesic Capital, commented: “The NFocus Fund represents a significant step in strengthening the collaboration between Geodesic Capital and Nikon. By leveraging our deep connections in Silicon Valley and our expertise in investing in foundational technology startups, we are poised to champion innovative solutions that align with our Limited Partners’ interests and Nikon’s vision for the future. We are thrilled to support the next wave of startups that will transform industries and create new opportunities for technological advancements both in the United States and Japan.”

Fund name                        NFocus Fund

Establishment                   August 6, 2024

Fund operation period     10 years (12 years longest)

Management company    Geodesic Capital

Fund size                           51.5 million USD

In 2015, former U.S. Ambassador to Japan John Roos created Geodesic Capital to leverage the connections between Silicon Valley and Japan. After a career working with disruptive and innovative technology companies in Silicon Valley, followed by his service in Tokyo where he built close relationships with the leaders of corporate Japan, he launched Geodesic Capital, the powerful culmination of both worlds – a bridge between Silicon Valley and Japan. Geodesic Capital invests in future-driven, globally-minded founders and helps them succeed in the Japanese market. For more information, please visit www.geodesiccap.com

The information is current as of the date of publication. It is subject to change without notice.