Sakana AI is a Tokyo-based startup that develops affordable, Japan-focused AI models. The company was founded in 2023 by former Google researchers.

How much funding has Sakana AI raised?

In November 2025, Sakana AI raised a $135 million Series B funding round, valuing the company at $2.65 billion.

What are Sakana AI's plans for the future?

Sakana AI plans to expand its enterprise business beyond the finance sector and into industries like manufacturing, industrial, and government by 2026. The company is also eyeing the defense, intelligence, and manufacturing sectors for potential growth opportunities.

Home / Business and Economy / Tokyo Startup Sakana AI Raises $135M, Valued at $2.65B

Tokyo Startup Sakana AI Raises $135M, Valued at $2.65B

17 Nov

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Summary

Sakana AI raises $135M Series B, now valued at $2.65B
Startup focuses on affordable, Japan-optimized AI models
Plans to expand into industrial, manufacturing, and government sectors

Tokyo Startup Sakana AI Raises $135M, Valued at $2.65B

In November 2025, Tokyo-based startup Sakana AI announced that it has raised a ¥20 billion (approximately $135 million) Series B funding round. This latest investment values the company at $2.65 billion post-money, up from a pre-money valuation of $2.5 billion.

Sakana AI was founded in 2023 by former Google researchers Llion Jones, Ren Ito, and David Ha, who now serves as the company's CEO. The startup focuses on developing affordable generative AI models that are optimized for the Japanese language and culture, working well with small datasets.

The Series B round attracted a mix of new and returning investors, including Japan's financial heavyweight Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG) and global venture firms like Khosla Ventures, Macquarie Capital, NEA, Lux Capital, and In-Q-Tel (IQT).