Manila's startup scene is full of energy, supported by a growing number of local venture firms. Some newer funds, like Kaya Founders, have already backed nearly 30 companies in just a few years.

Whether you're looking for an early-stage partner or a growth-focused fund, the right investor for your company is likely out there. We've sorted through the options to find the ones that stand out.

Below is our list of the best 5 VC firms in Manila.

Failory's Top 5 Picks

Kaya Founders invests in early-stage startups across the Philippines and Southeast Asia, with portfolio companies like the social platform Kumu. The firm provides hands-on support to its founders through an in-house platform team and a network of experienced operators.

Year Founded2021
FoundersConstantin Robertz, Lisa Cheng, Paulo Campos
Investment StageEarly Stage, Seed
Nº of Investments28 (7 as Lead Investor)
Nº of Exits—
Navegar Logo

2. Navegar

As a private equity fund focused solely on the Philippines, Navegar provides growth capital to established local businesses. The firm partners with its portfolio companies, offering financial and strategic guidance to build successes like the publicly-listed TaskUs.

Year Founded2012
FoundersJavier Infante
Total Funding$197M
Average Check Size$30M
IndustriesHealthcare, Food & Beverage, E-Commerce, Supply Chain & Logistics, Fintech
Investment StageEarly Stage, Late Stage, Private Equity, Growth
Nº of Investments6 (5 as Lead Investor)
Nº of Exits1 (1 IPO'd)
Top Portfolio StartupsCloudstaff, Great Deals E-Commerce, Taskus
Contact+63 2 808 4566
AHG Lab Logo

3. AHG Lab

AHG Lab operates as a hands-on venture builder in the Philippines, partnering with founders at the seed and early stages. They provide end-to-end strategic, commercial, and tech support, which allows founders to focus entirely on building their business.

Year Founded2020
FoundersJay Basco, Mark Kooijman, Patrick Llamoso, Rene Cuartero, Revianne Sesante, Ryan Llamoso
Investment StageEarly Stage, Seed
Nº of Investments3 (3 as Lead Investor)
Nº of Exits—
Contactadmin@ahglab.com / 632 8359 2428

Crestone Venture Capital backs early-stage fintech companies in emerging markets, from Southeast Asia and South America to Africa and the Middle East. They specialize in financial infrastructure and embedded fintech, providing hands-on operational support to a portfolio that includes Minka in Colombia and Peddlr in the Philippines.

Year Founded2019
FoundersInanc Balci, Inanc Balci, Kai Schmitz
Investment StageEarly Stage
Nº of Investments12 (2 as Lead Investor)
Nº of Exits1
Contactinanc@crestone.vc

Qatalyst Ventures supports early-stage pioneers in the Philippines who are building businesses designed for both social impact and profitability. Their mission is to build a community of founders who demonstrate that innovation and positive societal effects can go hand in hand with financial success.

Year Founded2020
Founders—
Investment StageEarly Stage
Nº of Investments1
Nº of Exits—
Contactconnect@qatalystventures.com