Goodwater Capital

Goodwater Capital is a venture capital firm based in Burlingame, California, exclusively focused on consumer technology investments. Established in 2014 by industry veterans Chi-Hua Chien and Eric Kim, the firm was founded on the conviction that consumer technology possesses immense potential to measurably enhance billions of lives globally. They aim to empower exceptional entrepreneurs who are building digital utilities to solve everyday consumer problems, spanning various sectors from housing and healthcare to financial services and entertainment.

Goodwater Capital distinguishes itself through a unique, software-enabled investment model combined with values-driven practices. Unlike many traditional venture firms, they adopt a highly selective approach, opting to find and invest in a curated handful of exceptional companies rather than reviewing thousands of pitches annually. This methodology allows them to leverage analytics and market insights to make informed investment decisions, ensuring deep partnership and operational excellence. Their investment strategy focuses on identifying transformative founders early, providing not only capital but also strategic guidance, operational expertise, and access to an extensive global network.

The firm has demonstrated a strong track record, successfully backing numerous companies from Series A through to IPO. Goodwater Capital manages over $3.3 billion of committed capital across its funds, supporting a diverse portfolio across North America and Southeast Asia, and extending its reach to over 50 countries through its seed portfolio, Genesis. Key achievements include investing in 13 unicorn companies (valued over $1 billion) within 11 years, with a total of over 500 investments and 25 successful exits. This commitment to backing companies that solve real-world consumer problems underscores their mission-driven approach, aligning financial returns with broader societal impact.

Leadership at Goodwater Capital is spearheaded by Co-Founders and Managing Partners Chi-Hua Chien and Eric Kim, both bringing extensive experience from prominent roles in venture capital and technology. The team also includes partners such as Coddy Johnson, who contributes operational expertise from his background as President and COO of Activision Blizzard; Jin Oh, focused on consumer technology and gaming investments with experience from Riot Games and Garena; and Vivek Subramanian, Partner and Chief Product Officer, leveraging his product management and engineering background from companies like Coupang and Oracle. Brooke Beck serves as Partner and Head of Investor Relations, overseeing relationships with limited partners and fundraising efforts. The collective expertise and shared values of the leadership team drive Goodwater Capital's mission to foster innovation that truly changes the world for good.