Tenstorrent Secures $50 Million Contract with Japan

Tenstorrent, a Silicon Valley AI chip startup founded by former Apple and Intel employees, has secured a $50 million contract with the Japanese government to train up to 200 chip designers at its U.S. offices over the next five years. This initiative is part of Japan's broader strategy to revitalize its semiconductor industry, which has seen its global market share decline from over 50% in the 1980s to less than 10% today. The collaboration will involve Japanese engineers working alongside Tenstorrent's experts to develop AI chips using RISC-V technology, with the goal of fostering a skilled workforce capable of supporting the Rapidus chipmaker, which aims to start mass production by 2027. Tenstorrent's Chief Customer Officer noted Japan's commitment to gaining greater control over its technological future. The training program is expected to enhance Japan's semiconductor capabilities and could reshape global supply chains amid increasing competition with major players like the U.S. and China.