Behavioral Science × AI Startup to Participate in J-StarX Silicon Valley Extended Program by 500 Global and JETRO
Godot Inc., a deep-tech startup specializing in behavioral science and AI, has been selected as one of 15 innovative companies for the “J-StarX Silicon Valley Extended Program by 500 Global,” jointly offered by the global venture capital firm 500 Global and the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO). This program aims to accelerate the globalization of Japanese startups by providing mentorship and expert support.
About the Program:
The program is designed to cultivate a global perspective among Japanese startups, formulate strategies for overseas expansion, and learn about investment criteria from international venture capitalists. Godot has been selected for Phase 3 of the program, which involves a four-week intensive in Silicon Valley focusing on “global market validation.” Participants will engage in various workshops, mock interviews, panel discussions, group activities, and one-on-one mentoring sessions. They will also interact with 500 Global’s flagship accelerator, which receives tens of thousands of applications annually. Additionally, participants will receive feedback from experts to refine their products and technologies to meet global standards.
Comment from Ken Moriyama, CEO of Godot Inc.:
We are honored to be selected for 500 Global’s program. Their mission to ‘uplift people and economies around the world through entrepreneurship’ deeply resonates with us. At Godot, we aim to foster individual and societal creativity through advanced technology. As a deep-tech startup, we have been proactively pursuing global expansion. In the U.S., we have built networks through engagements with Endless Frontier Labs in New York, SkyDeck in Silicon Valley. Through this program, we aim to deepen our relationships with U.S. and global investors, which are crucial for globalization but often limited in Japan. As the only Kansai-based startup in this program, we are committed to making the most of this opportunity and advancing into the global market.
About 500 Global:
500 Global is a multi-stage venture capital firm managing $2.4 billion in assets. It focuses on investing in founders building fast-growing technology companies. 500 Global has supported over 2,900 companies across more than 80 countries, with over 35 companies valued at over $1 billion and over 160 companies valued at over $100 million. The firm emphasizes technology, innovation, and capital to drive long-term value and economic growth.