Summary of Research Findings

Operating companies, especially major such companies, are engaged in corporate venturing activities in the forms of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and business alliances with startup companies, aiming to strengthen existing business and create new one. Corporate venturing activities are categorized largely into two: Investments, and business alliances not associating with investments. In this research, “corporate venture capital (CVC) activities” are defined as the investments to startups by operating companies themselves or by their investment subsidiaries. Limited partnership investment (an investment to startups via fund investment) is not included in the definition of this research, because limited partnership investors usually have no authorities in final decision making.

As a role of CVC, it provides necessary support for startups to help solve their challenges (procurement of funds, exploration of sales channels, development of technologies, etc.) by means of not only investments but also of collaboration on procurement, sales, as well as technologies, etc.. if necessary. Through such attempts, it earns strategic returns (profits) by obtaining technology licenses, generating new business, and forming personnel relationships with the startups communities.

Yano Research Institute has identified eight essential requirements for permanent engagement in CVC, as shown in the table above.

Noteworthy Topics

When Pursuing Strategic Returns, It Should Assume Financial Returns

There are two kinds of benefits when dealing in CVC, which are strategic returns and financial returns (mainly the profit gains by selling stocks). Even though either return can be pursued depending on the objectives of the CVC, the research has found out that financial returns should be considered as a prerequisite when pursuing strategic returns.

Research Outline