AppWorks
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AppWorks has quietly become one of Asia's most successful early-stage platforms by mastering two things most VCs struggle with: geographic focus and community building. Their "ABS" thesis (AI, Blockchain, Southeast Asia) isn't just marketing speak — they've delivered with unicorns like Dapper Labs and Animoca Brands. Jamie Lin runs a tight ship with strong conviction on web3 before it was cool, and Jessica Liu knows SEA markets better than most Silicon Valley partners know their own backyard. The accelerator program creates a genuine founder community that actually helps portfolio companies work together. However, their Taiwan-centric team may struggle with nuanced market entry in diverse SEA countries, and their heavy blockchain bet could look risky if crypto winter persists. They're operator-friendly and move fast on decisions, but expect them to push hard on regional expansion plans that might not fit your timeline.
- —Best for: AI/blockchain startups targeting SEA markets with Taiwan manufacturing advantages
- —Known for: Strong founder community and genuine post-investment support network
- —Watch out for: Heavy web3/crypto exposure and Taiwan-centric perspective on SEA markets
AppWorks focuses on three core themes of artificial intelligence, blockchain, and Southeast Asia (ABS). The firm seeks to invest in seed and early-stage startups in the artificial intelligence, internet of things, web3, and blockchain sectors across Southeast Asia.
AppWorks primarily invests in Seed and Series A stages. Its investments are spread across a wide range of sectors from High Tech to Blockchain Technology and Enterprise Applications. Top sectors in AppWorks' portfolio are High Tech (35 investments) and Blockchain Technology (28 investments).
Jamie started AppWorks in 2009 and has been a Partner since. He co-founded four Internet companies, successfully raised venture capital 300 million yuan, and had experience at All Asia Partners and HSS Ventures. He currently serves as the President of Taiwan Mobile and is the Chairman & Partner at AppWorks. Jamie is known for his data-driven approach and strategic vision for the Asian startup ecosystem.
Jessica is a Partner leading their efforts in Southeast Asia and the region's burgeoning blockchain ecosystem, and she loves helping visionary founders realize their full potential. Jessica has been active in the digital industry since 2010, starting her career managing online marketing for Standard Chartered Bank's cross-selling strategies before joining AppWorks in 2014. She was responsible for several important AppWorks portfolio, including Carousell, ShopBack, KKday, and 91APP.
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