Sakana AI Raises $135M Series B at $2.65B Valuation for Japanese-Optimized AI Models
Summary
Tokyo-based Sakana AI secures $135 million Series B funding at a $2.65 billion valuation to develop AI models specifically optimized for Japanese language and culture, with plans to expand into defense, manufacturing, and government sectors by 2026.
Key Points
- Sakana AI raises $135 million Series B funding at a $2.65 billion valuation to develop AI models optimized for Japanese language and culture
- The Tokyo-based startup founded by former Google researchers plans to use the capital for R&D, model development, and expanding engineering and sales teams in Japan
- Sakana AI targets expansion into defense, intelligence, manufacturing, and government sectors in 2026 while pursuing strategic partnerships and M&A opportunities