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AI Research Association: A Catalyst for Change in Accounting

In a remarkable achievement, the AI Research Association, operated by F&M Co., Ltd., has surpassed 500 member firms within just 10 months of its inception. As of September 2025, this organization has rapidly grown into one of the largest generative AI communities specifically tailored for the accounting industry, helping to drive essential operational reforms across accounting firms in Japan.

Understanding the AI Research Association

Founded under the leadership of Shuhei Ohno, a prominent figure within the Seven Sense Tax Accountant Corporation, the AI Research Association aims to harness the potential of generative AI within the accounting sector. The community conducts research and practical studies nationwide to enhance the application of AI technologies in accounting practices. Their offerings include online salons, instructional videos, and a robust sharing platform where members can exchange practical knowledge and share real-world examples.

For more details, visit the AI Research Association website.

Why 500 Firms Have Joined the Community

The rapid growth of the AI Research Association can be attributed to several key factors:
1. Sharing Success Stories: The platform enables members to discuss and share success stories that demonstrate specialized insights and high precision in addressing industry-specific challenges.
2. Knowledge from Experts: Members gain access to the latest AI utilization techniques, focusing on the integration of security measures along with tax and accounting systems with generative AI.
3. Safe Learning Community: Regular online salons and sporadic offline events create a welcoming environment for learning and collaboration among members across the country.

These attributes have been instrumental in attracting such a diverse group of firms. Participants have expressed that leveraging AI has enhanced their consultative capabilities and dramatically improved operational efficiency within their firms.

Leadership at the Helm

Shuhei Ohno, a tax accountant and senior manager at the Seven Sense Tax Corporation, leads the AI Research Association as its General Director. His extensive experience includes auditing for banks, securities, and insurance companies, along with significant involvement in startup mentoring and various acceleration programs. His leadership helps steer the community’s focus towards responsible AI implementation in accounting.

Events and Forums: Learning in Action

The AI Research Association is not only a hub for knowledge sharing but also serves as a platform for industry dialogue. Through events such as:

• - Forum 2025, where experts like Kenta Ishiguro and Masayuki Saiki discussed the endless possibilities of integrating generative AI in accounting,
• - Accounting Expo 2025, showcasing the latest AI solutions to hundreds of attendees,
• - SAMURAI Partner Fest 2025, where practical case studies from member firms were presented.

These engagements have positioned the association at the forefront of generating insightful discussions around AI utilization in accounting.

Future Directions

Looking ahead, the AI Research Association plans to expand its reach and services, aiming to grow to 1,000 member firms. Key initiatives underway include:

• - Launching AI agents specifically tailored for accounting firms.
• - Developing tools like tax declaration bots that adapt to recent tax reforms.
• - Hosting a nationwide AI conference to further knowledge dissemination.

For continued updates, stay tuned for details on the upcoming AI Conference.

About F&M Co.

F&M Co., Ltd. operates the AI Research Association and supports the growth and development of tax accountants and public accountants through a wide array of services. The firm’s network includes nearly 1,733 accounting offices nationwide as of June 2025, reflecting its commitment to actively support small and medium-sized enterprise development.

The company, founded in 1990, is headquartered in Suita City, Osaka, and has multiple offices across major cities in Japan, employing approximately 970 staff as of June 2025. Its services encompass a variety of sectors including accounting and business consulting, underscoring its dedication to enhancing the accounting industry’s dynamism.

For more information about F&M Co., visit F&M Co. website. If you have inquiries, please reach out through the following contact:

• - F&M Co., Ltd.

Consulting Division, Attn: Atoho
Phone: 06-7777-4897 (9:00-17:00, closed on weekends and holidays)
Email: [email protected]