The global community "AI Salon," bringing together AI-focused startup founders, investors, and corporate partners, has launched in Sydney with its first event held on August 26, 2025.
About AI Salon
AI Salon is a global community initiated by the founder of venture capital firm "Blitzscaling Ventures," based in Palo Alto, California. The community has conducted over 40 events across chapters worldwide.
This marks the first event in Oceania, co-hosted by:
- Adamiz (focusing on business efficiency through AI and automation) founder Vanessa Santos
- JETRO (Japan External Trade Organization)
- CUBIC INNOV8 (providing cybersecurity and DX solutions)
First Event Pitch Session
Three entrepreneurs and business leaders pitched at the inaugural event:
1. Arbos Digital
- Presenter: Founder Patricia Tanabe
- Business: Efficient digital marketing using AI
2. Simbian
- Presenter: Frank Yu (Director, Asia Pacific & Japan Sales)
- Business: Security platform development enabling autonomous cyber attack detection and response through AI
3. Laura AI
- Presenter: Founder Coby Paul
- Business: AI companion development for mental healthcare
- Response: Active questions about AI applications in mental healthcare
Organizer's Vision and Participant Response
Organizer Vanessa Santos stated, "I look forward to spotlighting speakers and startups through both Sydney-centered regional connections and AI Salon's international network. I want to build a chapter that reflects regional interests and energizes the community."
Participants provided positive feedback, with many expressing interest in presenting at future events.
Future Development
AI Salon plans regular events going forward, with expectations for further expansion of the AI-powered entrepreneur network in the Southern Hemisphere. This represents an important step in Sydney's potential development as a key hub in the Asia-Pacific AI startup ecosystem.