Japan-based semiconductor component manufacturer and telecommunications company Kyocera Corporation has announced two new venture funds totaling USD 100 million. These funds will be allocated towards artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and mobility sectors.
Additionally, the Kyoto-based company has allocated USD 60 million for the Kyocera Venture Fund-I, which will support technological developments in the U.S., Middle East, and Africa. Through this, the company has made its first significant investment in Africa.
Shouichi Nakagawa, Kyocera’s Senior General Manager of Corporate R&D, highlighted the importance of this investment, saying,
“We’re keen on startups offering innovations that complement our core expertise, especially those with AI-driven approaches that could enhance our semiconductor and telecom businesses.
Kyocera had previously invested in Chipletz, a startup focused on developing chip packaging techniques. This startup introduced an innovative packaging technique that eliminates interposers—small connectors traditionally used to link chips. As a result, it enabled enhanced processing speeds and improved performance for chips.
In addition, Kyocera is interested in AI applications that can integrate with its printer and electronics divisions. These applications are expected to enhance document security, provide energy-efficient data transmission, and even allow for thermoelectric conversion to transform waste heat into power.
With these new funds, Kyocera aims to combine its manufacturing expertise with technology to make a global impact in areas such as AI, clean energy, and mobility.
