#Japan #AI Transformation #Fukuoka #AI CROSS

AI CROSS's Innovative Transformation Support Model

AI CROSS Co., Ltd., based in Minato City, Tokyo, is actively engaged in promoting AI transformation (AX) support specifically aimed at small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The company recognizes that the primary barriers to AX in Japan are not just the adoption of tools but also the integration within organizations and comprehensive workforce development. Recently, on April 16, 2026, AI CROSS participated in a hearing with the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) to exchange ideas regarding the societal implementation of generative AI and AI agents, as well as the development of digital talents. This meeting focused on sharing AI CROSS's practical experiences in establishing a “Regional AI Ecosystem” in the Fukuoka and Kitakyushu areas.

Regional Support Model for AX from Fukuoka and Kitakyushu

The exchange of ideas was set against the backdrop of AI CROSS's efforts in Fukuoka and Kitakyushu, where they have forged partnerships among businesses, government, academia, and financial institutions to address the challenges SMEs face in implementing AX. AI CROSS has identified several structural challenges in promoting AX among these enterprises:

Key Challenges for SMEs in AX Promotion

1. Speed Gap Between Technological Evolution and Implementation
The pace of advancements in generative AI and AI agents is accelerating daily, while on-the-ground learning and integration lag significantly, often taking years. If unaddressed, this gap can lead to an AI divide that directly corresponds to business disparities. This poses a considerable risk to SMEs that may struggle to keep pace with larger competitors.

2. Reverse Literacy Structure Among Management
Traditionally, it is assumed that upper management leads and operational teams follow in terms of technology adoption. However, current statistics reveal that the use of generative AI among executives is only 40.2%, while managers are at 58.3% and department heads at 62.0%. This inversion means that unless upper management develops a clearer understanding of AI’s applications, investment in AX will remain stagnant.

3. Disparities in Literacy Levels by Hierarchy
Different tiers of personnel require fundamentally different AI literacy levels—strategic decision-makers need distinct skills compared to operational staff. A singular training program cannot adequately address these varied needs; instead, tailored learning frameworks must be designed for each hierarchical level.

4. Chronic Lack of Dedicated IT and AI Personnel
Many SMEs face significant shortages of full-time IT and AI professionals, making it challenging to elevate the overall competency of all employees, especially those without technical backgrounds.

To address these challenges, AI CROSS is developing a “Regional AX Support Model” that leverages collaboration between industry, government, academia, and finance to bolster the AI utilization framework across the region.

Collaborative Initiatives in Fukuoka and Kitakyushu

AI CROSS’s regional strategy involves several key initiatives:

Industry Collaboration

• - Conducted supportive engagements with Exploration Holdings Co., Ltd. in utilizing generative AI in February 2026.

Government Collaboration

• - Became a registered participant in the Kitakyushu City initiative “IT Scrum KitaQ” in June 2025.
• - Participated in seminars on digital transformation organized by the Fukuoka Chamber of Commerce in July 2025 and the Kitakyushu Chamber of Commerce in August 2025, specifically addressing AI applications in the food industry.
• - Acted as a facilitator for a generative AI hackathon at Kitakyushu City in October 2025.

Educational Partnerships

• - Signed collaborative agreements with Kyushu Institute of Technology in December 2023 and Kyushu Nutrition Welfare University in August 2024.
• - Joined the Waseda University IPS and Kitakyushu Consortium in November 2024 and conducted special lectures at Waseda Saga High School in December 2025.

Financial Collaboration

• - In February 2026, partnered with Fukuoka Bank to devise a support system for introducing generative AI to SMEs.

These initiatives collectively contribute to the formation of a robust Regional AI Ecosystem that empowers comprehensive AI utilization.

Insights from the Meeting with METI

During the hearing with METI, AI CROSS discussed the societal integration of generative AI and the necessary development of digital talents in the AX era. Discussions were grounded in practical insights derived from AI CROSS’s experiences in Fukuoka and Kitakyushu.

Highlights from AI Evangelist Yuji Kikukawa

Yuji Kikukawa, AI Evangelist at AI CROSS, emphasized that the success of AX hinges not on the tools themselves, but on the comprehension of AI at a high resolution by management and personnel capable of executing transformations. He highlighted the company's educational initiatives aimed at fostering AI literacy among future generations and the engagement of both business leaders and practitioners in seminars and advisory roles—forming a three-dimensional approach to talent development. He reiterated that continued collaboration with local entities would remain vital as they leverage their learned insights to bolster AX initiatives across the region.

AI CROSS Company Overview

AI CROSS Co., Ltd. was founded in March 2015 and is publicly traded with the stock code 4476. The company supports business efficiency and enhanced productivity through advanced messaging technologies and AI-enabled solutions. Their services include SMS distribution, RCS platforms, and various AI-driven analytical services, making them a key player in driving technological advancements for businesses.

For further inquiries, please contact:
AI CROSS Public Relations Department
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 050-1745-3057