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.
TIMO KILP
PRINCIPAL
"What got you here won’t get you there."
The most important thing I look for in an early stage company? Founders’ purpose.
The hardest thing about early stage startups: Focus, focus, focus!
What technologies will change the world in 5-10 years?
Blockchain. I’m convinced we’ll see wide adoption.
My "superpower:" I’m a connector. Regardless whether my team or I can help, I try to put founders in touch with relevant people in my network. Founders first.
BACKGROUND
Timo Kilp is a Principal at Yamaha Motor Ventures, where he is responsible for sourcing and leading due diligence activities.
Previously, he was an associate at Sony Innovation Fund, the venture capital arm of Sony Corporation, where he was investing in early-stage companies and pursuing partnership opportunities for Sony’s business groups. Prior to Sony, Timo worked at JetBlue Technology Ventures, a corporate venture arm of JetBlue Airways. Timo also gained experience at boutique investment bank, Woodside Capital, and health tech startup, Augmedix.
Outside of work, he's an avid cross country and alpine skier. Timo grew up in the fast growing start-up hub of Tallinn, Estonia.