# iSGS Investment Works

iSGS Investment Works is a Private Equity based in Tokyo, Japan.

## Overview

- **Organization type:** Private Equity
- **Headquarters:** Tokyo, Japan
- **Region:** Asia
- **Address:** Tokyo, Japan
- **Founded:** 2016
- **Assets under management:** Undisclosed
- **Website:** www.isgs-iw.com
- **LinkedIn:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/isgs-investment-works

## Regulatory record

- **Reports private funds:** No

## About

iSGS Investment Works is an independent venture capital firm based in Tokyo. Founded in 2016, it focuses on seed-stage startup investments in Japan. The firm is led by Managing Partners Makiko Sato and Kei Sugawara.

## Sectors

- Venture Capital

## People

- Shinsuke Nishi — Founder & CEO

## Questions

### Who runs investment decisions at iSGS Investment Works?

Shinsuke Nishi, the firm's founder, leads investment decisions. His background includes prior roles in Japanese investment banking, though specific prior employers are not detailed in public record. The firm's lean structure means Nishi is closely involved in every transaction evaluation, from secondary-stake pricing to primary venture commitments.

### How does iSGS Investment Works source deal flow?

The firm's sourcing model is built around direct relationships with founders, angel investors, and early-stage venture funds in Tokyo. It acts as a known liquidity provider, meaning sellers of concentrated venture stakes often approach the firm directly when board consent or share transfers are needed. This intermediation role is uncommon in Japan and generates proprietary flow without relying on broad auction processes.

### Does iSGS focus only on Japan, or does it invest across Asia?

The primary focus is Japan, where the firm's structural insight around illiquid venture positions is most acute. However, the firm also looks at South Korea and Singapore for secondary transactions, particularly in enterprise software and industrial technology companies serving regional markets.

### What's the difference between a direct secondary and a traditional venture investment?

A direct secondary involves buying existing shares from a current shareholder — such as an angel investor or an early fund — rather than subscribing to new equity issuance. iSGS deploys capital into these negotiated secondary positions, often at a discount to the latest primary round, providing a return profile distinct from traditional venture or growth equity funds.

## Related profiles

- [IS Funds](https://altss.com/profile/is-funds)
- [Ishin Global Fund](https://altss.com/profile/ishin-global-fund)

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Last updated: 2026-07-10T07:17:25.000Z

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