Fracton Ventures Launches 'AUTON', a DeFi-Specialized Acceleration Program to Accelerate Co-creation with AI Talent
Fracton Ventures, together with SMBC Nikko Securities and other partners, has launched 'AUTON', an acceleration program aimed at integrating DeFi and AI. The program is accepting applications from engineers and researchers in the AI field.
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- 📰 Published: April 7, 2026 at 18:38
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Fracton Ventures Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo, Representative Directors: Yudai Suzuki, Toshihiko Kamei) announces the launch of the acceleration program 'AUTON' (hereinafter referred to as 'this program') in collaboration with SMBC Nikko Securities Inc., Next Finance Tech Co., Ltd., UTokyo Innovation Platform Co., Ltd., and Prime Beat Co., Ltd. The program aims to activate talent exchange and joint business development between the Decentralized Finance (DeFi) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) sectors. We are calling for participants, primarily targeting students, researchers, and engineers in the AI field who are eager to apply their technology to the DeFi sector.
## Background of the Program Launch
Against the backdrop of the expanding adoption of stablecoins and the emergence of new payment rails where AI agents can autonomously execute transactions, AI is becoming an increasingly important tool in the DeFi market. While AI is already being utilized in many industries, this program aims to capture the unique challenges and possibilities inherent to DeFi, fostering continuous innovation in the sector.
Fracton Ventures has been supporting the creation and growth of Ethereum-based crypto startups under the mission of 'Building the future of the Ethereum ecosystem from Asia.' Through this program, we will support the creation of new value by integrating AI technology and DeFi, driving the construction of the next-generation digital asset market.
## Overview of the Program
As its inaugural run, this is an in-person and online hybrid acceleration program providing support to build innovative solutions utilizing AI while learning from leading experts on the front lines of the DeFi sector.
Selected applicants will receive a three-month program consisting of lectures on fundamental DeFi concepts, technical support from technology partners, and mentoring aimed at refining prototypes. Furthermore, depending on their presentation at the demo day, participants may receive further support geared towards global commercialization and securing investment.
## [Application Guidelines]
(Table details follow - Item / Content...)
## Background of the Program Launch
Against the backdrop of the expanding adoption of stablecoins and the emergence of new payment rails where AI agents can autonomously execute transactions, AI is becoming an increasingly important tool in the DeFi market. While AI is already being utilized in many industries, this program aims to capture the unique challenges and possibilities inherent to DeFi, fostering continuous innovation in the sector.
Fracton Ventures has been supporting the creation and growth of Ethereum-based crypto startups under the mission of 'Building the future of the Ethereum ecosystem from Asia.' Through this program, we will support the creation of new value by integrating AI technology and DeFi, driving the construction of the next-generation digital asset market.
## Overview of the Program
As its inaugural run, this is an in-person and online hybrid acceleration program providing support to build innovative solutions utilizing AI while learning from leading experts on the front lines of the DeFi sector.
Selected applicants will receive a three-month program consisting of lectures on fundamental DeFi concepts, technical support from technology partners, and mentoring aimed at refining prototypes. Furthermore, depending on their presentation at the demo day, participants may receive further support geared towards global commercialization and securing investment.
## [Application Guidelines]
(Table details follow - Item / Content...)