MOL PLUS is the corporate venture capital (CVC) arm of Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL), established in May 2021 to invest in early and middle-stage startup companies worldwide. Its mission is to reform ocean shipping business models and create new businesses by integrating innovative ideas and technologies from startups with MOL Group's resources. The CVC focuses on areas such as offshore, environment, ferries, and cruise ships, aiming to add new value to the ocean shipping industry and society. Operating globally, MOL PLUS has established desks in Tokyo, London, Singapore, and Mumbai, reflecting its commitment to fostering international partnerships. The CVC has invested in various sectors, including logistics and digital transformation, deep tech, and environmental sustainability. Notable investments include WOTA, a water circulation technology company; Regional Fish, specializing in high-speed fish farming; MetroWeather, a developer of atmospheric measurement equipment; Kyoto Fusion Engineering, focusing on nuclear fusion; AMOGY, a U.S.-based ammonia power generation company; and Atomis, a developer of porous coordination polymers. MOL PLUS's investment strategy emphasizes co-creation and collaboration, aiming to jointly build and pilot new business models with startups. This approach allows for testing innovative solutions in real-world environments and scaling successful ventures globally across MOL's extensive fleet and logistics network. The CVC's focus on environmental sustainability and ESG investment practices has been recognized, as evidenced by its receipt of the Tokyo Financial Award in the sustainability category in 2024. This award highlights MOL PLUS's dedication to contributing to a sustainable society through its investment activities.
Is MOL PLUS the right investor for your startup? Browse their investment focus, stage preferences, and geographic scope to see how well they align with your fundraising goals. Your full match score with MOL PLUS, along with a list of other relevant VCs, is available on Hopohopo.io.
Investment role
Lead and follow
Stages
Seed, Series A
First ticket size
JP¥3,000,000 - JP¥30,000,000
When engaging MOL PLUS, founders should highlight how their technology or business model can be piloted or scaled within a global maritime context, especially if it leverages cross-border logistics or environmental impact. Emphasize readiness for real-world deployment and openness to co-develop solutions with a large, operational partner. Demonstrating a clear path to integration with existing shipping, logistics, or environmental systems will resonate, as will a collaborative mindset for long-term partnership.
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