ThinkZone Ventures Launches Global Minds Fund I to Empower Vietnamese Startups
In an exciting development for Vietnam’s burgeoning tech scene, early-stage venture capital firm ThinkZone Ventures has officially introduced its fourth fund, the Global Minds Fund I (GMFI). This initiative aims to connect the rich resources available from the country’s leading entrepreneurs and corporations with the dynamic spirit of emerging technology startups.
Unveiling the Fund’s Focus
The GMFI has successfully attracted participation from local limited partners (LPs), particularly seasoned entrepreneurs who have established successful businesses in traditional sectors. These investors are strategically looking to pivot into the next generation of Vietnamese tech startups, eager to capitalize on the innovative potential within the market. Importantly, specific details surrounding the fund size remain undisclosed, hinting at the confidentiality surrounding investments in the Vietnamese tech landscape.
Investment Strategy and Support
The GMFI is positioned to offer financial support with check sizes reaching up to $1 million, targeting companies in their developmental phases from pre-seed to Series A. This considerable backing enables portfolio companies to not only access initial capital but also seek additional funds through co-investments from GMFI’s limited partners. This collaborative financing structure fosters a robust network of support aimed at elevating startups to new heights.
Target Sectors and Innovation
With a strategic focus on tech-driven startups, the GMFI aims to address the pressing demands of emerging markets. The fund is actively seeking opportunities in a variety of sectors, including fintech, edtech, artificial intelligence (AI), software as a service (SaaS), healthtech, and other critical technological domains that align with Vietnam’s national innovation and tech development priorities. The fund’s scope indicates a commitment to fostering innovative solutions that enhance competitiveness and drive growth in traditional businesses through deep tech integration.
Local Trust and Commitment
One of the most significant aspects of GMFI is its foundation in local investment. The backing from Vietnamese investors showcases a growing trust and commitment to the tech ecosystem within the country. This domestic support not only brings financial resources but also valuable market insights and extensive business networks, helping Vietnamese startups gain a competitive edge on a global scale.
Government Support for Innovation
The launch of the GMFI coincides with the Vietnamese government’s increasing emphasis on fostering investments in innovation, science, and technology. This alignment speaks volumes about the supportive regulatory environment that aims to propel the tech industry forward, positioning Vietnam as a key player in the global startup arena.
Recent Expansions and Portfolio Management
Just a few months prior, in June 2025, ThinkZone announced that it would be acquiring a controlling stake in BK Investments JSC, allowing the firm to directly oversee the management of the BK Fund — a startup investment fund affiliated with the Hanoi University of Science and Technology. This strategic acquisition reflects ThinkZone’s commitment to expanding its influence and resource base within the Vietnamese startup ecosystem.
Active Investment and Future Plans
Currently, ThinkZone is in the process of deploying capital from the Global Minds Fund I as well as the BK Fund, while simultaneously managing the portfolios of its earlier funds, Fund I and Fund II. In 2023, the firm aimed to raise $50 million for its third fund to assist startups in their global expansion strategies. While DealStreetAsia notes that this fund has yet to close, it underscores ThinkZone’s proactive approach to navigating a rapidly evolving market.
Building a Strong Investment Track Record
Previously, in 2022, ThinkZone raised $60 million for its second fund, cementing its status as one of the largest homegrown VC vehicles, predominantly supported by local conglomerates. Notable local LPs include IPA Investments Corporation, Phu Thai Holdings, and Stavian Group. This robust investment network is essential in nurturing tech startups across various verticals in the pre-seed to Series A stages, with ticket sizes that can reach up to $3 million. Some prominent names in ThinkZone’s portfolio include innovative players such as GIMO, Fundiin, and Edupia, highlighting the firm’s successful track record in cultivating high-potential companies.
The formation of GMFI signals a vibrant opportunity for the next wave of Vietnamese startups, fueled by local expertise and solid financial backing. As the tech ecosystem in Vietnam continues to grow, initiatives like this will be crucial in fostering innovation and creating pathways for future industry leaders.