Murata set up WONDERSTONE Ventures, a corporate venture capital unit in Massachusetts that plans to invest $50 million over five years. It backs seed and early-stage startups worldwide in next-generation communications and 6G, optics and semiconductors, bioelectronics, environment, robotics and space. The name Murata says the 'wonder stone' in the name refers to a stone the company has valued since its founding. The idea is to polish startups' raw stone and raise value on both sides. The fund backs growth-stage companies as well as seed and early-stage ones. Why a separate arm Murata already invested in and worked with startups. It said the electronics market is changing quickly, and a dedicated venture unit can invest more flexibly and respond faster.
