Based in Menlo Park, California, Synergy Ventures has brought together pioneering medical technology companies in the United States and Japanese corporations and investors for nearly two decades.
Led by founders Allan Johnston and Robert Okun, Synergy has fostered more than 30 Japan-U.S. medical devicerelationships and has been involved in transactions totaling over $700 million — including Synergy Fund investments and Japan partnerships.
“By understanding the needs of both sides, we help establish long-term mutually beneficial relationships in Japan,” said Dr.Johnston. This ability to understand the needs of investors and the acuity to form strong connections with partners comprise the company’s prescription for success.
“Our company is called Synergy because we value the importance of blending the strengths of all sides. This is the best formula for success when collaboration takes place between the U.S. and Japan. It has to bea win–win situation,” Okun explained.
“We strive to establish long term success for each side. This philosophy is critical to our successin corporate deals and Synergy’s venture funds, and we’re continuing this mission in the Synergy Ventures III fund, witha select group of forward thinking Japan corporate investors,” he added.
- Originally prepared by Global Media for The Japan Times Special Report on Northern California 2014 (Credit: Conrad Becker)
