[University of Aizu x ORENDA WORLD] Special Lecture on Regional Revitalization via AI Data Centers and Startup Compensation Strategies

ORENDA WORLD Inc. (Headquarters: Minato-ku, Tokyo; CEO: Yasushi Shibuya; hereinafter "ORENDA WORLD") held a special lecture at the University of Aizu (Location: Aizuwakamatsu City, Fukushima) on Thursday, April 23, 2026. The lecture featured CEO Yasushi Shibuya and Executive Officer Yu Iuchi, discussing regional revitalization projects and startup compensation systems.

### Background and Purpose This lecture was held as part of the university's "Special Topics in Venture Basic Course I." In addition to exploring how cutting-edge IT can transform regional areas, the session delved into the "economic reality of startups," which is essential for students considering their future careers.

### Main Themes 1. AI Data Center and ORENDA WORLD's Regional Revitalization Project The speakers detailed the "Advanced DX Human Resource Development Data Center" project underway in Katsurao Village, Fukushima. This project aims to build a "digital community" that merges educational AI computer facilities with job creation, rather than just providing server space. They emphasized the importance of forming a creative hub that sends messages from Tohoku to the world by combining regional resources with the latest technology.

2. Venture Compensation Systems and Stock Options (SO) They explained strategic compensation designs to secure and retain talent in growing startups. Using specific simulations, they demonstrated how stock options link a company's market value growth with personal economic gain. Students received practical knowledge about asset formation possibilities through stock-based compensation in addition to salary-based flow.

3. Required AI Engineers and Accelerating Compensation Markets The discussion touched upon the rapidly growing global demand and market value of AI engineers. Citing specific compensation levels at home and abroad, they explained that individuals who understand business value and can implement AI in society—not just write code—are highly valued.

### Scenes from the Day and Student Reactions During the lecture, students asked specific and enthusiastic questions directly related to their futures, such as "When are stock options granted?" and "Can urban-level compensation be maintained when starting a business in a regional area?" The atmosphere was filled with the heat of students seriously looking at their careers, showing high interest in both technical success and personal rewards.

### Message from CEO Yasushi Shibuya "Technology is a means to change society, but it is 'people' who support that technology. For regional revitalization to be sustainable, it is essential to have an environment where people can prosper economically and take on challenges with pride. I hope the students of the University of Aizu will fly high as engineers and entrepreneurs who can pursue world-class rewards and dreams."