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Chio Ishikawa

Associate

Back Story

In 2024, I went on a trip to travel the world. When I was in Guatemala and had conversations with residents and students there I began to question my life mission and the kind of impact I want to create in this world. Seeing health conditions and education levels made me realize how privileged my own life had been, and at the same time, it made me reflect on how I could give back in return. I was also surprised to see that even in those tough conditions, young people were passionate about their local communities and thinking how they could move their country into a better place. I was moved to explore ways to give back to and empower the next generation of Japan.
In our world, a single idea with the right capital can move mountains. To me, being a venture capitalist is not just about providing funding — it’s about shaping the future together with entrepreneurs who are brave enough to take on our biggest issues to build a better society. I aspire to stand with founders, working on a shared question: “Whose lives will this business change, and what kind of value will it bring?”

What’s a side project or hobby you’re obsessed with?

I love immersing myself in new cities, exploring unfamiliar places, cultures, and perspectives, and escaping to magnificent natural landscapes.
When I’m surrounded by natural formations that took thousands of years to form, it reminds me to take a step back and appreciate the small and big things.
Traveling around the world and learning about different cultures has also made me reflect on my own roots — Japan. Recently, I began studying sado (the way of tea), often called Japan’s "comprehensive art". I'm excited to share the beauty of such Japanese traditions with old and new friends in my own way.

BIO

After graduating from the University of Tokyo, I joined Sumitomo Corporation with a desire to build bridges between Japan and the world. At Sumitomo, I worked in the CVC and new business development departments. As part of CVC operations, I also planned and operated an acceleration program for early-stage hardware startups. From 2022, I spent two years in Hong Kong, leading startup investments and business development mainly in Southeast Asia. During that time, I was in awe by the energy of young people, and by contrast, how many young people in Japan seem to lack confidence in their country, or enthusiasm toward their work. In particular, I felt that many women in Japan still face significant social barriers and struggle to balance career and life events.These experiences deeply resonated with MPower Partners’ mission to promote women’s empowerment and create meaningful social impact.
Drawing on my experience across business, investment, and global markets, I’m committed to supporting entrepreneurs who are ready to take their vision to the world — walking alongside them as a dedicated partner on their journey.

Chio Ishikawa

Associate

Back to all members

Chio Ishikawa

Associate

Back Story

In 2024, I went on a trip to travel the world. When I was in Guatemala and had conversations with residents and students there I began to question my life mission and the kind of impact I want to create in this world. Seeing health conditions and education levels made me realize how privileged my own life had been, and at the same time, it made me reflect on how I could give back in return. I was also surprised to see that even in those tough conditions, young people were passionate about their local communities and thinking how they could move their country into a better place. I was moved to explore ways to give back to and empower the next generation of Japan.
In our world, a single idea with the right capital can move mountains. To me, being a venture capitalist is not just about providing funding — it’s about shaping the future together with entrepreneurs who are brave enough to take on our biggest issues to build a better society. I aspire to stand with founders, working on a shared question: “Whose lives will this business change, and what kind of value will it bring?”

What’s a side project or hobby you’re obsessed with?

I love immersing myself in new cities, exploring unfamiliar places, cultures, and perspectives, and escaping to magnificent natural landscapes.
When I’m surrounded by natural formations that took thousands of years to form, it reminds me to take a step back and appreciate the small and big things.
Traveling around the world and learning about different cultures has also made me reflect on my own roots — Japan. Recently, I began studying sado (the way of tea), often called Japan’s "comprehensive art". I'm excited to share the beauty of such Japanese traditions with old and new friends in my own way.

BIO

After graduating from the University of Tokyo, I joined Sumitomo Corporation with a desire to build bridges between Japan and the world. At Sumitomo, I worked in the CVC and new business development departments. As part of CVC operations, I also planned and operated an acceleration program for early-stage hardware startups. From 2022, I spent two years in Hong Kong, leading startup investments and business development mainly in Southeast Asia. During that time, I was in awe by the energy of young people, and by contrast, how many young people in Japan seem to lack confidence in their country, or enthusiasm toward their work. In particular, I felt that many women in Japan still face significant social barriers and struggle to balance career and life events.These experiences deeply resonated with MPower Partners’ mission to promote women’s empowerment and create meaningful social impact.
Drawing on my experience across business, investment, and global markets, I’m committed to supporting entrepreneurs who are ready to take their vision to the world — walking alongside them as a dedicated partner on their journey.

Chio Ishikawa

Associate

Drawing on decades of hands-on expertise and deep networks in both public and private sectors, MPower Partners provides unparalleled support and access to help startups scale with confidence and clarity.

Let's connect

Building something bold? Contact us about unlocking your next stage of growth.

Copyright MPower 2025

Drawing on decades of hands-on expertise and deep networks in both public and private sectors, MPower Partners provides unparalleled support and access to help startups scale with confidence and clarity.

Let's connect

Building something bold? Contact us about unlocking your next stage of growth.

Copyright MPower 2025

Drawing on decades of hands-on expertise and deep networks in both public and private sectors, MPower Partners provides unparalleled support and access to help startups scale with confidence and clarity.

Let's connect

Building something bold? Contact us about unlocking your next stage of growth.

Copyright MPower 2025