BACKGROUND
Masa Shinomiya is a senior mechanical engineer at Yamaha Motor Ventures, where he is responsible for providing engineering support for portfolio companies.
Previously, he worked as a body design engineer for a scooter in Yamaha Motor.
Prior to that, he worked as a CAE engineer. He supported structural design, such as for commercial motorcycles, race bikes, surface mounter, and various research projects.
Masa graduated from Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology with a master of Mechanical system engineering.
In his leisure time he enjoys riding motorcycles and skiing.
BACKGROUND
Keita Nakanishi is the CEO of Yamaha Motor Ventures, where he also serves as a member of the Board of Directors and the Investment Committee. He brings over 25 years of profound technical expertise from Yamaha Motor, most recently serving as the Senior General Manager of the Automotive Development Section within the Technical Research & Development Center.
Throughout his distinguished career, Keita has specialized in advanced automotive engine systems, leading high-performance projects in collaboration with world-class automotive manufacturers. His deep expertise spans mechanical engineering, advanced propulsion systems, and alternative fuels. This extensive technical pedigree provides Yamaha Motor Ventures with a unique advantage in conducting rigorous technical due diligence and identifying startups with true disruptive potential.
Based in Silicon Valley, Keita acts as a strategic bridge between the startup ecosystem and Yamaha’s Business Units. By leveraging his deep-rooted connections and technical authority within Yamaha Motor, he is dedicated to accelerating synergy-driven investments that shape the future of mobility and sustainable technology.
COMPANIES
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"When in Rome, do as the Romans do," "Time is money," and "Where there’s a will, there’s a way."
I believe in respecting the local culture of a new environment while moving with speed and conviction. If you have the determination to see things through, any goal is within reach.
Why work at Yamaha/Yamaha Motor Ventures? What are you most excited about working in Yamaha Motor Ventures?
Having spent over 25 years in high-performance engine development and R&D, I have a trained eye for identifying truly exceptional technology. While I am still expanding my depth in the world of venture capital, my strength lies in my deep understanding of Yamaha Motor’s research and development core. I see my role as a strategic bridge—connecting high-potential startups not just with our business units, but directly with our headquarters' R&D divisions to spark genuine innovation.
What do you look for the most in early-stage startups?
I look for a win-win collaboration. I want to see how a startup’s vision can synergize with Yamaha’s technical expertise to create mutual value. While financial performance is important, we are primarily driven by strategic returns—finding partners who can help us co-create the future of mobility and beyond.
What do you love to do outside of work?
I am passionate about staying active: mountain biking, off-road rally racing, golf, and weight training. In that sense, there might be no better place on earth for me than California. I was born in Hokkaido, Japan—a very cold region—but I’ve realized I’m actually not a fan of the cold! From both a lifestyle and a climate perspective, California is perfect.
What’s your next adventure with Yamaha? Which Yamaha products would you love to try next and where?
Stepping into the world of venture capital from a completely different technical background is an adventure in itself. I’ve just begun this journey, and I am currently focusing all my energy on the mission at hand. My ultimate goal is to achieve something monumental—something that delivers "Kando" (profound excitement and satisfaction) to people all over the world.