Toyota’s venture arm Woven Capital has announced key leadership changes as part of its strategy to identify and invest in the next generation of mobility innovations. Michiko Kato has been appointed as Chief Investment Officer (CIO) of Woven Capital and will also serve as CEO of Toyota Invention Partners, becoming the first woman to lead a wholly owned subsidiary of Toyota.
Kato brings extensive experience in finance and startups, having previously worked in investment roles and played a key part in Woven Capital’s early growth since joining in 2020. She has led investments in companies across advanced technology sectors, including autonomous driving and aerospace, and is expected to take a more hands-on approach in building strategic partnerships with startups.
Alongside her appointment, Mia Panzer has been named Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Woven Capital. With a background in business strategy within Toyota’s technology ecosystem, Panzer will oversee core operational functions including finance, legal, and human resources. Together, the appointments mark a significant shift, with women now holding the top two leadership roles at the firm.
Woven Capital, the growth-stage venture capital arm of Toyota, focuses on investing in startups working across mobility-related domains such as autonomous vehicles, cybersecurity, space technology, and AI. The firm recently launched its second $800 million fund and plans to back at least 20 new Series B companies, reinforcing its commitment to scaling transformative technologies.
The leadership transition reflects Toyota’s broader ambition to strengthen its position in the evolving mobility ecosystem by backing high-impact startups and fostering deeper collaboration. With renewed leadership, Woven Capital aims to accelerate innovation and identify companies that can become long-term partners in shaping the future of transportation and mobility solutions.
