Google and KDDI are ready to back Japanese startups

The Google AI Futures Fund backs the startups that are building what’s next in AI — and we’re extending our support to Japan. In partnership with Japanese telecom leader KDDI, we’re launching the AI Startup Support Program to accelerate the most innovative AI-native Japanese startups. This initiative is built on our conviction that Japan is home to some of the most visionary AI builders in the world.

Selected startups will receive:

• Joint funding: Equity investments from both the AI Futures Fund and KDDI Open Innovation Fund.
• The latest AI models: Early access to some of Google’s most advanced AI tools — including Gemini, Nano Banana, and Lyria — plus, opportunities to provide feedback to the researchers building them.
• Compute credits: Google Cloud credits, as well as credits for sovereign Gemini and GPUs, uniquely provisioned in Japan via KDDI’s Osaka-Sakai Data Center.
• Dedicated support: Hands-on technical support from a network of Google and KDDI researchers, engineers, product managers, and more, as well as distribution and business opportunities.

Learn more about the program on the AI Futures Fund website. We encourage any Japanese team with an ambitious vision to apply.