JETRO And Coolwater Capital Launch Second Emerging VC Fund Accelerator To Strengthen Japan's Innovation Ecosystem

2025-06-16 09:45:54

(MENAFN- PR Newswire) The first cohort saw 17 GPs selected from hundreds of applicants across Japan, collectively targeting over $500M in fundraising. Highlights included in-depth training from leading U.S. VCs, a 125-person Japan Innovation Summit in San Francisco, and in-person visits to Tier 1 VC firms-marking a breakthrough in cross-border knowledge sharing.

Following the launch of inaugural program, JETRO and Coolwater are proud to announce Cohort 2 of VC Fund Accelerator.

Post thi

"We saw real traction-new fund launches, global LP engagement, and deep peer connections," said Winter Mead , Founder & CEO of Coolwater Capital. "Cohort 2 is about scaling that impact and deepening the infrastructure for Japan's VC future."

JETRO echoed this sentiment:

"The results of Cohort 1 proved Japan's potential on the global VC stage," said Tatsuhiko Shiono , Director of JETRO Startup. "We're thrilled to deepen our collaboration with Coolwater and help more fund managers go global."

What's New in Cohort 2:

Enhanced 1:1 fundraising and brand coaching
Expanded shared services (LP strategy, IR, positioning)
More localized support with hybrid delivery
New podcast and content community for alumni

Key Dates:

Applications open: June 11, 2025
Deadline to apply: July 16, 2025
Program launch: September 9–11 in Tokyo, followed by weekly virtual modules
Capstone: Coolwater Investor Summit, November 17–19 in New York

The 3-month accelerator includes 8 modules plus networking events, office hours, and meetups. All programming is in English, with support for both in-person and online participation.

Who Should Apply:

Emerging VC managers, ex-founders, corporate spinouts, tech executives, and institutional investors with bold, Japan-focused investment theses.

About Coolwater Capital
Founded in San Francisco, Coolwater has supported over 300 emerging funds globally, helping raise $5B+ and back more than 8,400 startups.

About JETRO
The Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) is a government agency committed to promoting innovation and supporting global trade and investment.

SOURCE Coolwater Capital

MENAFN16062025003732001241ID1109682689

Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.