Geodesic Capital Announces the Geodesic Alliance Fund to Strengthen U.S.--Japan Technology and Security Collaboration

Appoints Tom Gillespie, former managing partner of In-Q-Tel, to lead the Fund, along with Rayfe Gaspar-Asaoka, former partner at Canaan Partners

SAN FRANCISCO, June 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Geodesic Capital today announced the first close of the Geodesic Alliance Fund, with $250 million in funding. The Geodesic Alliance Fund is a first-of-its-kind venture fund focused on advancing the U.S.-Japan Alliance by investing in technologies that enhance national security, economic resilience, and cross-border innovation.

The fund primarily targets early-stage U.S. startups in national security sectors like AI, space, cybersecurity, autonomy, and dual-use deep technologies, and provides more than just capital. Portfolio companies benefit from hands-on support, including strategic guidance, regulatory navigation, and introductions to customers, partners, and talent in Japan.

The Geodesic Alliance Fund builds on Geodesic's established track record. Since 2015, the firm has raised nearly $1 billion across multiple funds, supporting high-growth U.S. companies such as Databricks, Netskope, Saronic and Scale AI, and helping them scale into Japan through a curated network of corporate, policy, and technical leaders.

"The Geodesic Alliance Fund is a new model for cross-border venture—where commercial success and strategic alignment go hand-in-hand," said Ambassador John Roos, Founding Partner at Geodesic Capital and former U.S. Ambassador to Japan. "We believe the future of security and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific depends on deeper U.S.-Japan technology cooperation—and we're building the platform to make that happen."

To lead the new fund, Geodesic Capital has appointed Tom Gillespie, formerly Managing Partner at In-Q-Tel, the strategic investment arm of the U.S. national security community. He will lead the Alliance Fund alongside Rayfe Gaspar-Asaoka, a deep tech investor and former partner with Canaan Partners, with support from the broader Geodesic team.

"I've spent the last two decades investing at the intersection of national security and innovation, while creating long-term value for investors," said Tom Gillespie. "This fund presents a rare opportunity to scale that work internationally. Japan is stepping up its defense investments and innovation ambitions, and we're excited to build the bridge between global startups and Japan's strategic ecosystem."

"Japan is one of America's most capable and indispensable allies—especially in East Asia, where strategic stability depends on close cooperation in emerging domains like space," said General John W "Jay" Raymond (Ret.), former Chief of Space Operations, United States Space Force. "From satellite communications and space situational awareness to lunar exploration and commercial ventures, U.S.-Japan collaboration in space multiplies our capabilities and strengthens our resilience--aligning innovation, industry, and strategy across both nations and the broader Indo-Pacific."

Limited Partners include prominent Japanese corporations and Japanese governmental institutions that are deeply aligned with Geodesic's mission of advancing the U.S.-Japan relationship through technological innovation, while generating returns for investors. In addition, senior U.S. and Japanese advisors will support companies navigating commercial and governmental environments.

"This isn't just a fund—it's a platform for long-term strategic partnership," added Rayfe Gaspar-Asaoka. "We're bridging the next generation of U.S. early-stage, deep tech startups with a network of Japanese corporates, government leaders, and investors who are committed to building tomorrow's global technology companies."

The Geodesic Alliance Fund expects to announce its first investments later this year. Geodesic is currently accepting additional LP commitments and plans a final close in the coming year.

About Geodesic Capital
Geodesic Capital is a venture capital firm focused on bridging Silicon Valley and Asia through strategic technology investments. With nearly $1 billion under management and a decade of experience supporting U.S. startups and Japanese corporates, Geodesic helps founders scale globally while delivering strategic value to its partners. Founded by former U.S. Ambassador to Japan John Roos, the firm is uniquely positioned at the intersection of venture capital, national security, and cross-border collaboration.

Learn more at www.geodesiccap.com

SOURCE Geodesic Capital