KDDI launched a program to support promising Japanese AI startups in expanding into the United States and held a ceremony in San Francisco. It will select 5 companies for the first cohort.
KDDI has launched a new program to support Japanese startups developing artificial intelligence-related services in expanding into the United States, and held a ceremony in San Francisco. Through future collaboration, the company is also expected to benefit from the growth of its portfolio companies.
KDDI believes that many Japanese companies, despite having strong technology, run out of funding after being hindered by local business practices. It analyzed that establishing a track record in the US market is essential for receiving investment there. For the first cohort, it will provide support to 5 selected companies, taking into account the factors that hinder the emergence of privately held unicorns.
The initiative is part of an effort to expand the company's growth areas beyond telecommunications, with the long-term aim of creating growth opportunities through the development of collaborative relationships.