#Japan #Tokyo #ORENDA WORLD #THE FIRST #I-DIGIO Holdings

ORENDA WORLD Collaborates with Industry Leaders in AI Development

ORENDA WORLD, headquartered in Minato-ku, Tokyo, has recently confirmed a strategic partnership with Marubeni I-DIGIO Holdings and THE FIRST to enhance AI talent training and the development of AI-driven products. This collaboration aims to fast-track the implementation of AI technology across multiple industries, contributing to a more prosperous society.

Overview of the Partnership

ORENDA WORLD has been at the forefront of addressing societal issues through its solutions leveraging virtual spaces and AI voice technology. The company is also actively involved in the utilization of synthesized voice technology in digital human and metaverse content collaboration within the realms of AI technology, computer graphics, and video production. A significant part of this initiative includes constructing a data center in Katsuo Village for advanced IT talent training and regional revitalization.

Collaboration with Marubeni I-DIGIO Holdings

The association with Marubeni I-DIGIO Holdings encompasses several key initiatives:
1. Joint development of a practical AI talent training program.
2. Integration of ORENDA WORLD's high-performance AI data center with Google Cloud services.
3. Co-creation of new business ventures leveraging AI and Google Cloud technologies.

Marubeni I-DIGIO Holdings brings its extensive experience in system integration and advanced technology from Google Cloud to support customer companies in their digital transformation (DX) efforts. Together, the firms aim to create a practical AI talent training program and provide new solutions that leverage AI-coupled cloud technologies. Possible applications include automating quality control in manufacturing and developing image diagnostic support systems in healthcare, as well as enhancing marketing through the combination of customer data and AI.

Collaboration with THE FIRST

In working with THE FIRST, the companies will pursue:
1. Trial use of the AI data center for their ongoing AI character service development.
2. Development and provision of solutions centered on the AI data center to clients.
3. Talent development through the aforementioned projects.

THE FIRST employs over 300 personnel dedicated to development and operations, focusing on providing DX solutions and managing system development, particularly in the gaming sector. The company has made strides to strengthen its system development operations in regional areas, including the establishment of branches in Sapporo and Osaka starting in 2025. The partnership aims to accelerate product research and development in the entertainment domain through the utilization of the AI data center in Katsuo Village, while also boosting employment and talent development in rural areas.

Background of the Partnership

Growing Global AI Solutions Sector

In recent years, AI technology has evolved rapidly, promising widespread adoption across all sectors. According to a report from the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), the market for AI solutions is set to grow significantly, projecting a reach of approximately 14 trillion yen by 2030. This surge in AI implementation is expected to dramatically enhance companies' digital transformation efforts.

Addressing Japan's IT Talent Shortage

However, a pressing challenge looms; Japan's shortage of individuals skilled in AI technology is becoming more severe. Businesses must urgently focus on training AI talent as the nation is expected to face a shortfall of 800,000 advanced IT professionals by 2030, essentially decimating talent pools in regional areas compared to concentrated urban centers like Tokyo. Furthermore, there are concerns regarding the low fertile ground for developing such talent, as higher salaries abroad lead to a continued exodus of skilled individuals.

About the Katsuo Innovation Lab

As part of its commitment to advanced IT talent development and regional revitalization, ORENDA WORLD is constructing a data center aimed at cultivating high-level DX professionals. This initiative has received backing from the METI's subsidy for business location and employment generation, positioning the data center as a central hub for collaborations between industry, academia, and government, as well as a community space for gathering advanced DX talent, ultimately benefitting employment generation in the Hamadori region.

Corporate Information

ORENDA WORLD Inc.

• - Founded: July 2015
• - Location: SI Building Aoyama, 1-3-6 Kita Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 107-0061
• - Website
• - CEO: Yoji Shibuya
• - Business Areas: AI Solutions, Gaming and Entertainment, Advanced IT Talent Development, Regional Revitalization

Marubeni I-DIGIO Holdings Inc.

• - Established: 2023
• - Location: Sumitomo Realty & Development Iidabashi First Tower, 2-6-1 Kouraku, Bunkyou-ku, Tokyo
• - Website
• - CEO: Yoshihiro Sato
• - Business Areas: Enterprise Solutions, Platform Solutions, Contact Center/Network Solutions, Manufacturing Solutions, IDC Services

THE FIRST Inc.

• - Founded: June 2016
• - Location: Pola Shibuya Building, 7F, 1-15-21 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
• - Website
• - CEO: Soudai Kubo
• - Business Areas: DX, System Development, Entertainment, IT Talent