🇯🇵🇫🇮 FJCC Startup Sessions: Engaging with Japanese VC & CVC

Japanese venture capital and corporate venture capital firms are sitting on over 1.5 trillion yen in dry powder — and they're increasingly turning their attention to international markets, including Finland. This is a significant opportunity for Finnish startups, but navigating the Japanese investment landscape requires a solid understanding of how these investors think and operate.

💡 Why Japanese Investors Are Different

Japanese VCs and CVCs often take a distinctly different approach compared to their Western counterparts — from the scope of their involvement to their investment philosophy. On the CVC side in particular, backing from a Japanese corporation can open doors to entirely new markets through the resources and networks of the parent organisation.

Knowing what sets Japanese investors apart — in terms of mindset, expectations, and the support they provide — can be a decisive factor in determining whether pursuing Japanese capital is the right move for your startup.

🍳 Breakfast Panel Discussion

Join this interactive breakfast panel co-hosted by the Finland-Japan Chamber of Commerce (FJCC) and Northlink Partners for a candid conversation with real Japanese investors and specialists in Japanese VC & CVC. You'll gain firsthand insight into:

• 🔍 How Japanese VCs and CVCs operate and what they look for
• 🤝 Key cultural nuances startups should keep in mind
• 🌏 How Japanese investment can support market expansion into Japan and beyond

🎤 Moderator

Mikael Malmivaara — Co-Founder & Managing Partner, Northlink Partners
Specialist in connecting Japanese corporates, C/VCs, and startups with the Finnish innovation ecosystem

📢 Speakers to be announced!

🎟️ Attendance & Format

The session is open to both FJCC members and non-members and will be held:

• 🏢 In-person at Startup Hub A Grid
• 💻 Online via Zoom Webinar (link sent 24 hours prior to the event)

Please register with the appropriate ticket via the link below.

👉 Register here

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🏢 About the Organisers

Finland-Japan Chamber of Commerce (FJCC)
Founded in 1981, FJCC is dedicated to strengthening economic ties and fostering mutual understanding between Finland and Japan. The organisation supports its members through networking, advocacy, and knowledge-sharing aimed at sustainable growth across both markets.

Northlink Partners
A boutique Nordic-Japan consultancy offering a comprehensive suite of advisory services for organisations operating across the Nordics and Japan. With over a decade of combined experience and a deep regional network, Northlink serves startups, corporations, academic institutions, government bodies, and investors seeking connections and strategic support.