Empyrean Sky Partners

Profile

Empyrean Sky Partners is a venture capital firm based in Singapore, founded by Ming Lei. The firm is comprised of a diverse and experienced team, including Founding Managing Partner Max Mao and Head of Operations and Compliance Qing Zhu. Ming Lei, the Chairman and Founding Partner, has a notable investment track record, having backed companies such as NIO, RLX Technology, and POP MART. ESP is distinguished by its strategic partnerships, including a co-managed fund with Lion X Ventures and collaboration with Dreame Technology, providing portfolio companies with unique industrial and distribution advantages.

The firm focuses on investing in sectors such as Physical AI, robotics, smart devices, advanced manufacturing, intelligent mobility, and emerging consumer technologies. ESP primarily targets growth-stage companies and writes checks in the range of $10-50 million. They have a global investment mandate with a strong presence in Southeast Asia, boasting a Total AUM with their Global Technology Fund targeting $200 million. Their partnerships provide portfolio companies with significant distribution, manufacturing, and commercialization support.

Notable investments include NIO - an NYSE-listed EV manufacturer, RLX Technology - China's largest e-cigarette company at IPO, and POP MART - a global designer toy brand. These portfolio choices underscore ESP's ability to identify and nurture category-defining companies. Their recent $90 million first close on the Global Technology Fund highlights strong institutional and strategic LP connections, particularly in the overlapping spaces of AI and industrial robotics.