Mitsubishi Corp. will invest in a new artificial intelligence fund spearheaded by renowned Stanford University computer scientist Andrew Ng, Nikkei Asia reported on Monday.
The Japanese trading giant's move aims to strengthen ties with high-tech startups and cultivate AI talent across its various business sectors, including energy, steel, and autos. Ng, a co-founder of Coursera and former director of research for Google and Baidu, launched his first AI fund in 2017, raising $175 million from investors like SoftBank Group.
In addition to financial investment, Mitsubishi plans to enhance its AI capabilities by offering specialized training programs, including overseas study opportunities for its employees.