Tokyo-based startup Sakana AI, founded in 2023 by former Google researchers David Ha, Llion Jones, and Ren Ito, is shifting its strategy. The company, previously known for post-training existing models and evolutionary model merging, will now develop domestic AI models from scratch.
The company aims to reduce reliance on foreign AI models, specifically for sectors like finance and defense. This move aligns with Japan's national strategy for sovereign AI development. Sakana AI has already established partnerships with major corporations and participates in government-backed initiatives.
In November 2025, the company secured ¥20 billion, approximately $135 million, in a Series B funding round, reaching a post-money valuation of $2.65 billion. This followed a Series A round that raised $214 million at a $1.5 billion valuation.
The company's product portfolio includes the Namazu model series, the Fugu orchestration platform, and the Marlin research agent. On October 23, 2026, Sakana AI introduced its enterprise toolset, Aquarium, and launched the Recursive Self-Improvement Lab (RSI Lab) to research self-improving AI systems.
