LG & NovaWave Capital Unveil WaveX: A Game-Changing Venture Studio for AI Startups at CES 2026
LAS VEGAS – In a move poised to reshape the landscape for artificial intelligence innovation, LG Electronics (through its innovation arm, LG NOVA) and NovaWave Capital today announced the launch of WaveX, a groundbreaking venture studio. The unveiling took place at CES 2026, signaling a significant commitment to fostering the next generation of high-potential AI companies. This isn’t just another funding round; it’s a holistic ecosystem designed to propel startups from concept to market leader.
Beyond Funding: A Comprehensive Support System
WaveX distinguishes itself from traditional venture capital by offering a comprehensive support model. Selected startups will receive not only capital and co-investment through the NovaWave fund – bolstered by new limited partners including AZ Venture Capital Inc. and Sunny Day Sports – but also direct access to LG NOVA’s extensive marketing and corporate resources. Crucially, WaveX provides intensive venture building support, encompassing incubation, agile product development, and access to a robust regional acceleration network. This isn’t about simply writing a check; it’s about actively building successful companies.
Arizona: The New Hotspot for AI Innovation
The strategic decision to initially focus on Arizona is no accident. The state has experienced explosive growth in its tech ecosystem, attracting over $34 billion in investments in 2025. Governor Katie Hobbs and the Arizona Commerce Authority have championed a collaborative environment that’s proving incredibly attractive to tech companies. WaveX aims to capitalize on this momentum, positioning Arizona as a key hub for AI development and deployment. But the vision extends beyond state lines, with plans for interregional collaborations spanning Silicon Valley, West Virginia, the Gulf Region, and even international expansion.
What Does This Mean for Founders? Global Reach & Reduced Risk
For founders, WaveX represents a unique opportunity to de-risk the often-perilous journey of building a startup. The venture studio model is specifically designed to optimize go-to-market strategies and accelerate the path to scalability. Perhaps even more compelling is the promise of global marketing and validation, with preferential access to LG’s international channels and established alliances in Europe and the Gulf region. This is a shortcut to international expansion that many startups only dream of.
This model is particularly relevant for founders in emerging tech regions, like Latin America. Access to capital is often a challenge, but equally important is access to established markets and corporate validation. WaveX offers a pathway to overcome these hurdles, allowing LATAM-based AI startups to compete on a global stage.
A Focus on Impact: Health, Energy, Sports & Media
WaveX isn’t just looking for any AI startup; it’s prioritizing companies operating in critical sectors: health, energy, sports, and media. This focus reflects a commitment to driving measurable industrial impact and aligning innovation with real-world needs. The studio’s emphasis on automation further underscores its dedication to solving complex challenges and shaping the future of these industries.
The launch of WaveX isn’t just a story about funding; it’s a story about building a future where AI-powered solutions address some of the world’s most pressing problems. By combining capital, corporate expertise, and a global network, WaveX is setting a new standard for venture studio innovation and offering a compelling proposition for ambitious AI founders worldwide. Keep a close eye on Arizona – it’s quickly becoming a place where the future is being built.
Sources: contxto.com, aijourn.com, pulse2.com, prnewswire.com, techli.com, roselawgroupreporter.com, expansionsolutionsmagazine.com, vcwire.tech, lgnova.com
