As AI accelerates innovation and automation driven by logic, what can we learn from Japan’s tradition of harmony, awareness, and human-centered creativity? Keizai Silicon Valley and VALUENEX are pleased to welcome Allen Miner, Founder & CEO of SunBridge, a Japanese VC firm, for a discussion on the cultural foundations behind Japanese innovation and entrepreneurship.
The session will examine how Japan’s more right-brain-oriented culture has contributed to resilient companies, enduring craftsmanship, and sustainable innovation across generations, and why it may become increasingly important to all of us in the AI era.
For this talk, Allen draws upon decades of experience bridging Silicon Valley and Japan, as well as his recent interest in the work of Oxford psychiatrist and philosopher Ian McGilchrist on the roles of left and right hemispheres of the brain. Allen will explore the contrast between Western left-brain-dominant innovation – reflected in today’s logic and language-driven approach to AI – and Japan’s more wholistic, relational, and awareness-driven approach to innovation and life.
Following the discussion, attendees will have the opportunity to network with fellow professionals, entrepreneurs, and members of the US-Japan business community.
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Allen Miner is the Founder and CEO of SunBridge, a venture capital and business development firm focused on bridging innovation and entrepreneurship between Japan and Silicon Valley. With decades of experience building technology businesses across the US and Japan, Allen has played a leading role in supporting startups, venture investment, and cross-border collaboration. He is widely recognized for his deep understanding of both Silicon Valley’s logic-driven innovation culture and Japan’s human-centered approach rooted in harmony, awareness, and long-term relationships.
Founded in 1999, SunBridge is one of Japan’s original independent venture capital firms and an active startup ecosystem catalyst, supporting companies such as salesforce.com Japan, Marketo Japan, Macromill, and HENNGE.
Thursday, July 23, 2026
| Registration/Networking: | 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM |
| Program: | 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM |
| Networking: | 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM |
Light food and beverages will be served.
