US-based gaming equipment producer Razer launched a $30m early-stage investment fund called zVentures on Monday to support companies that can help expand its product platform.
Founded in 2005, Razer develops and sells gaming accessories and hardware, game device enhancement software, and user interface and systems hardware. Its software is utilised by some 20 million active users.
The unit will put $5m into funding virtual reality content development through the OSVR Developer Fund that Razer announced in June this year, and $5m for Android game publishing and investment through an initiative dubbed OUYA Publishing.
Other areas of interest for zVentures include the internet of things and connected devices, gaming software, big data and analytics, advanced manufacturing and engineering, virtual and augmented reality technology, robotics and eSports.
Min-Liang Tan, co-founder and CEO of Razer, said: “At the end of the day, we are attracted to emerging companies with opportunities for massive growth and improvement that can leverage on our experience and expertise.
“Our contributions could include supply chain management, sales and marketing, capital or any number of considerations. Ideally, target companies will very naturally tap into the extensive networks and resources available throughout the wider Razer ecosystem.”
Razer has received funding from investors including semiconductor technology maker Intel’s venture capital unit, Intel Capital, and IT company Hangzhou Liaison Interactive, and was valued at $1.5bn as of February this year.