Link: Tokyo-based Sakana AI, which unveiled several AI models for Japanese speakers, raised a $100M Series A led by NEA, Khosla, and Lux, with Nvidia participating (Min Jeong Lee/BNN Bloomberg)

Nvidia Corp. has invested in Tokyo-based startup Sakana AI, contributing to a significant $100 million Series A funding round. Sakana AI, started by ex-Google engineers in 2023, collaborates with Nvidia to advance AI research and development in Japan.

Sakana AI aims to develop affordable generative AI models using minimal datasets, focusing on innovations for Japanese language applications. Their unique method demonstrates rapid advancement in AI capabilities among local companies.

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang is particularly impressed by Sakana's efforts to expand AI usage in Japan. Huang emphasizes the importance of sovereign AI, which encapsulates local data and cultural nuances through tailored AI models.

Meanwhile, the global tech community is increasingly recognizing Japan as a key player in the AI sector. With significant investments from major companies like Microsoft and collaborations between OpenAI and Japanese firms, the country is becoming a central hub for AI development.

Sakana’s valuation near $200 million reflects its pioneering strategy to train AI using smaller datasets, contrasting with larger entities like OpenAI that require extensive resources.

This approach not only saves costs but also streamlines the process, potentially accelerating the democratization and adoption of AI technologies in Japan. Sakana AI and Nvidia's partnership marks a notable step in this direction, blending local expertise with global technological leadership.

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