1337 Ventures
Overview
1337 Ventures is a premier venture capital firm based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Founded in 2012, it focuses on early-stage startups, particularly in the pre-seed and seed stages. The firm supports startups by providing capital investment, mentoring, and strategic guidance. It has successfully raised funds and invested in various sectors, including fintech, health tech, and renewable energy. The firm is led by CEO and Founding Partner Bikesh Lakhmichand.
Recent Developments
- Rebee Health Investment: In July 2025, 1337 Ventures invested in Rebee Health, a Singapore-based health tech startup. This investment aims to enhance Rebee's digital physiotherapy solutions, leveraging wearable sensor technology for remote rehabilitation.
- Alpha Startups Pre-Accelerator: As of July 2025, 1337 Ventures announced the launch of the 64th cohort of its flagship Alpha Startups Pre-Accelerator. This program supports Malaysian founders by providing mentorship and exposure to investors.
- Investment in Finory: In March 2025, 1337 Ventures invested in Malaysian fintech firm Finory, which offers personal finance management solutions. This reflects the firm's commitment to supporting fintech innovations.
- Betterteem Investment: March 2025 saw an investment in Betterteem, a Philippine-based AI-powered HR tech startup, underlining 1337 Ventures’ focus on startups that impact industries through innovation.
- SpaceIn Support: In March 2025, 1337 Ventures invested in SpaceIn, a Malaysian startup aiming to develop locally-made satellites, enhancing Malaysia's role in the global space economy.
- Swipey Funding: In December 2024, Swipey, a fintech startup providing financial management solutions for SMEs, secured funding from 1337 Ventures. This funding is part of Swipey's plan to expand its offerings.
Company Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Date | 2012 |
| Headquarters | Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia |
| Founders | Bikesh Lakhmichand |
| Revenue | Not publicly disclosed |
| Profits | Not publicly disclosed |
| Key Investors | Asgari Stephens, Suresh Thiru |
| Industry | Venture Capital, Private Equity |
| Number of Employees | 11-50 |
Early History
1337 Ventures was established in 2012 with a mission to support early-stage innovation in Malaysia. Its inception was driven by a vision to bridge the gap in seed funding and accelerate the growth of promising startups. The firm launched its first accelerator program, Alpha Startups, in 2014, which became Malaysia's longest-running program of its kind. Over the years, 1337 Ventures has played a pivotal role in nurturing over 4,000 startups from five countries through its various initiatives, including corporate training and crowdfunding platforms.
Company Profile and Achievements
1337 Ventures operates as a leading venture capital firm that invests primarily in pre-seed and seed-stage startups in Malaysia and Southeast Asia. Some of its notable achievements include:
- Alpha Startups: This pre-accelerator program has supported over 3,500 startups, providing structured mentorship and a path to secure funding.
- Leet Academy: The firm's educational arm, which offers workshops in design thinking and corporate transformation.
- Key Investments: Significant investments in companies like Rebee Health, Betterteem, and Finory, which showcase the firm's commitment to innovation across various sectors.
- Expansion Initiatives: 1337 Ventures has extended its reach across Southeast Asia, investing in startups that address real-world challenges using innovative solutions.
Current Operations and Market Position
Today, 1337 Ventures is recognized as a leading venture capital firm in Southeast Asia, known for its proactive approach in identifying and nurturing high-potential startups. The firm actively participates in strategic investments across fintech, healthtech, and digital transformation sectors. Its investment in diverse industries has positioned it as a versatile player in the venture capital market, leveraging its Alpha Startups Pre-Accelerator and Leet Capital crowdfunding platform to streamline early-stage funding for startups.
Conclusion
1337 Ventures has carved out a significant place in Southeast Asia's venture capital landscape by consistently supporting innovative startups through capital investment and strategic mentorship. As it continues to expand its portfolio and influence, the firm remains committed to driving technological and economic growth across Malaysia and beyond, championing startups that promise to make a substantial impact on their respective industries.