Google is expanding its support for AI startups in Japan. Google announced the partnership on July 28, 2026. It partnered with KDDI, one of Japan’s largest telecom companies. Together, they launched the AI Startup Support Program for AI-native startups.
Jonathan Silber announced the program. He is the co-founder and director of the Google AI Futures Fund. He said the fund supports founders building the next generation of AI products. He also said Japan has strong engineering talent and deserves greater investment.
The program offers more than funding. Selected startups will receive funding from two sources. These are the Google AI Futures Fund and the KDDI Open Innovation Fund. They will also get early access to Google’s AI models, including Gemini, Nano Banana, and Lyria.
Founders can share feedback with Google’s AI researchers. This gives startups a chance to shape future AI tools while building their own products.
The program also includes Google Cloud credits. Startups will receive Gemini and GPU credits through KDDI’s Osaka-Sakai Data Center. This data centre is in Japan. This helps companies that must keep customer data inside the country.
Google and KDDI will also provide technical support. Founders can work with engineers, researchers, and product managers from both companies. They will also receive guidance on business growth and product distribution.
The partnership combines the strengths of both companies. KDDI provides telecom infrastructure and strong business connections across Japan. Google brings AI technology, cloud services, and global experience. Together, they offer funding, technology, and expert guidance.
Japanese AI startups can apply through the Google AI Futures Fund website. Google says it is looking for teams with bold AI ideas.
The new program is part of Google’s wider effort to support AI startups outside the United States. Japan already has a strong reputation in robotics and hardware. Google hopes the program will help startups build AI products. It also wants them to compete in global markets.
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