Aizuu University and ORENDA WORLD: Shaping the Future with AI and Venture Strategy

On April 23, 2026, ORENDA WORLD held a special lecture at Aizuu University, featuring its CEO, Harutoshi Shibuya, and Executive Officer, Yu Iuchi. This event focused on two pivotal themes: regional revitalization through AI data centers and innovative compensation strategies for venture companies.

Objectives of the Lecture

This lecture was part of Aizuu University's 'Venture Basic Course I'. The discussions aimed to explore how cutting-edge IT technologies can bring about transformative changes in regional settings, particularly in rural areas of Japan. Additionally, the lecture addressed essential aspects of the economic realities of venture companies, which is crucial for students as they contemplate their future careers.

Key Themes Explored

AI Data Center and Regional Revitalization Project

The session elaborated on ORENDA WORLD's 'Advanced DX Human Resource Development Data Center' project in Katsurao Village, Fukushima Prefecture. Unlike traditional server facilities, this project aims to create a 'Digital Community' that combines educational AI computing resources with job creation. The emphasis was placed on the significant role of combining local resources with the latest technology to establish a creative hub that resonates from Tohoku to the rest of the world.

Compensation Strategies and Stock Options in Venture Companies

Throughout the lecture, the importance of strategic compensation design was highlighted as a crucial method to attract and retain talented individuals in growing venture companies. A detailed explanation of the stock option (SO) mechanisms illustrated how a company's market capitalization enhances individuals' economic benefits. This practical knowledge aimed to equip students with a holistic understanding of wealth creation through both cash flow compensation and stock-based rewards.

The Rising Value of AI Engineers

The session delved into the explosive demand for AI engineers globally, analyzing how such professionals are evaluated and compensated in the market. By citing specific current salary benchmarks within and outside Japan, the discussion illuminated the necessity for not just coding capabilities but also a firm understanding of business value and practical implementation of AI technologies to gain significant recognition and rewards in this field.

Reactions and Engagement from Students

The lecture sparked numerous enthusiastic and pointed questions from students, addressing their future personal and professional trajectories. Queries regarding the timing of stock option allocations and the feasibility of maintaining competitive compensation in rural start-ups reflected a genuine interest in their impending career paths. The atmosphere was vibrant, marked by students' keen engagement with the intersections of technology, business, and their future opportunities.

Message from Harutoshi Shibuya, CEO of ORENDA WORLD

Shibuya emphasized, 'Technology is a tool for societal change, but it is the people that prop up that technology. For regional revitalization to be sustainable, it is essential for those working in these areas to achieve economic prosperity and embrace challenging opportunities with pride. I hope the students at Aizuu University will emerge as engineers and entrepreneurs who pursue globe-level compensation and chase their dreams.'

Background on ORENDA WORLD and Aizuu University

ORENDA WORLD, founded in July 2015, operates in AI solutions, XR development, and regional revitalization projects, driven by a vision to solve societal challenges through 'Design x Technology.' One of the flagship initiatives, the data center construction in Katsurao Village, exemplifies this commitment.

Company Information:

- Name: ORENDA WORLD Inc.
- Location: 1-3-6 Kita-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 107-0061, Japan
- Website: orenda.co.jp

Meanwhile, Aizuu University, which opened in 1993, is Japan's first university specializing in computer science and engineering. With a world-class research environment, it has produced numerous IT entrepreneurs and engineers.

University Information:

- Location: 90 Kamiiari, Tsugura, Aizuwakamatsu, Fukushima, Japan
- Website: u-aizu.ac.jp