MT Partners

Makoto Takano, the firm's founder and CEO, is the central decision-maker. He also serves as General Partner of D4V, the venture capital vehicle through which MT Partners executes its startup investments. Takano's board roles at Endeavor Japan and the Japan Venture Capital Association extend his influence over broader industry dynamics but do not introduce additional investment committee members at the MT Partners level.

Sourcing runs through Takano's overlapping networks. His board seat at Endeavor Japan gives him direct access to vetted, high-growth entrepreneurs in the Endeavor pipeline. His leadership role at JVCA provides visibility into the broader Japanese venture landscape, while his media background with Forbes JAPAN creates a brand-driven funnel for inbound deal flow. D4V, where he is GP, adds institutional-quality screening to this network-driven model.

D4V (Design for Ventures) is an early-stage venture capital firm where Makoto Takano serves as General Partner. It is the primary vehicle through which MT Partners deploys venture capital into Japanese startups. The two entities share Takano as their central figure, and MT Partners' investment strategy is effectively defined by D4V's focus on Seed and Series A companies. D4V's fund size and limited partner composition are not publicly disclosed.

Takano is one of Japan's most networked venture-capital figures, occupying roles that span media, investing, and industry governance. He founded Forbes JAPAN, giving him a media platform that amplifies entrepreneurial narratives. He is Senior Managing Director of JVCA, helping set policy and standards for Japan's venture industry. Through Endeavor Japan, he selects and advises high-potential founders, creating a feedback loop between his board service, his GP duties at D4V, and his investment decisions at MT Partners.