How Angel Investing Really Works in Japan 🇯🇵

Thinking about investing in Japanese startups? This is your first stop.

In this Week 1 sample we explore “How Angel Investing Really Works in Japan”, a session from the Japan Angel Foundations Program.

Download the week 1 worksheet too.

You’ll learn how successful angels design their portfolios, navigate risk, and set expectations for returns – especially in Japan’s slower, relationship-driven ecosystem.

Whether you’re Japan-curious or already investing globally, this video walks through:

• The power law of early-stage returns
• Why most startups fail – and how to still win big
• Realistic portfolio planning (10–20 bets, not 1–2 moonshots)
• Why exits in Japan take 8–10 years (and how to prepare)
• Key constraints around IPO vs M&A in Japan

Includes a hands-on simulation activity to build your first 10-company angel portfolio – plus you can download the accompanying worksheet for this module.

Tools & Resources:

• “Angel” by Jason Calacanis
• “Angel Investing: The Gust Guide to Making Money and Having Fun Investing in Startups” by David S. Rose
• Japan-focused exit data: Crunchbase, PitchBook
• Week 1 Worksheet

This is a preview of our full 16-week coaching & community program for aspiring and global investors wanting to enter Japan’s startup scene.

Learn more by registering via our landing page to join the waitlist.