Japanese Financial Giant ORIX Backs Israeli Crowdfunding Leader with Major Investment
Tokyo-based ORIX Corporation, a global powerhouse in financial services, has announced a $60 million strategic investment in OurCrowd, Israel’s premier equity crowdfunding platform. The deal marks ORIX’s first foray into Israel’s thriving tech ecosystem while strengthening OurCrowd’s foothold in Asian markets.
Strategic Synergies and Market Expansion
Under the agreement:
- OurCrowd will grant ORIX access to its global startup network and venture funds
- The partners will co-develop new financial products tailored for Japanese and international investors
- ORIX gains exposure to handpicked startups from OurCrowd’s portfolio of 220 companies
“ORIX is a global leader who will strengthen OurCrowd in many ways,” said CEO Jon Medved. “We’re excited to transform venture capital together and build bridges to Asian markets.”
Japan-Israel Tech Corridor Gains Momentum
The investment arrives amid boosting economic ties between the nations:
- Japanese investment in Israel surged 40% year-over-year in 2019
- Direct Tokyo-Tel Aviv flights were planned pre-pandemic (since postponed)
- OurCrowd recently launched a $100M Pandemic Innovation Fund targeting crisis technologies
ORIX UK CEO Kiyoshi Habiro emphasized: “We’re partnering with Israel’s most active venture investor to bring cutting-edge tech to Japan’s industrial and financial sectors.”
Track Records of Innovation
OurCrowd’s notable exits include:
- Beyond Meat (plant-based protein)
- Lemonade (AI-powered insurance)
- JUMP Bike (micromobility, acquired by Uber)
ORIX’s diversified portfolio spans:
- Real estate
- Banking services
- Renewable energy solutions
This partnership signals growing confidence in Israel’s tech ecosystem while creating new cross-border investment opportunities for global stakeholders.
