Google and KDDI launch AI startup support for Japan

Key points

• 1

  Joint funding access: Japanese AI startups can now secure equity investments from both Google’s AI Futures Fund and KDDI’s Open Innovation Fund. This dual funding model reduces financial risk for early-stage ventures by combining Google’s global scale with KDDI’s local telecom expertise. Startups should prepare detailed pitch decks emphasizing Japan-specific market opportunities, as applications open immediately via the AI Futures Fund website. The program targets AI-native companies with proven technical traction, not just ideas.

• 2

  Early access to advanced AI tools: Selected startups gain early access to Google’s Gemini, Nano Banana, and Lyria AI models — tools typically reserved for internal research teams. This allows Japanese developers to test cutting-edge capabilities before competitors. For example, a startup building language translation apps could immediately prototype with Lyria’s real-time multilingual features. Startups must apply for technical access within 48 hours of selection to avoid losing priority access to these models.

• 3

  Japan-specific compute credits: Participating startups receive Google Cloud credits plus dedicated sovereign Gemini and GPU resources at KDDI’s Osaka-Sakai Data Center. This solves a critical bottleneck for Japanese teams by providing low-latency infrastructure within Japan’s telecom network. A Tokyo-based AI startup using these credits could process 10x more data per second than with standard cloud services. Startups should verify their technical requirements match the Osaka-Sakai Data Center’s specifications before applying.

• 4

  Dedicated technical support: Startups get hands-on help from Google and KDDI engineers, product managers, and researchers — a unique resource for Japanese teams that often lack global technical partnerships. This support includes debugging assistance and business matchmaking, which is especially valuable for startups in Japan’s complex regulatory environment. For instance, a health-tech AI startup could get help navigating Japan’s strict medical data laws while developing its product. Apply early to secure access to this support network before the program’s next intake cycle.