YOU&YOU Launches Innovative AI Programs for Accounting Firms in Japan

Introduction

In a groundbreaking move, the consulting company YOU&YOU, based in Okinawa with operations in Osaka, has launched two innovative AI programs tailored for accounting firms in Japan. These are the 'kAIkei Academy,' an AI skill development program, and 'Accoungent,' a specialized AI agent development service. Designed to address the persistent talent shortage in the accounting sector, these solutions aim to optimize business operations through AI, enabling firms to strengthen their foundational management and transition towards high-value-added services.

Background of the Development

The accounting industry in Japan is currently facing a dual challenge: a severe difficulty in hiring talent and the ongoing necessity to allocate resources for routine tasks such as bookkeeping and tax declarations. As the demand for consulting and management support — high-value services from clients — continues to rise, firms struggle with obstacles such as a lack of training for staff, reluctance towards AI technologies, and uncertainty about how to initiate AI integration into their practices. To enhance competitiveness in a landscape increasingly populated with AI solutions, YOU&YOU recognized the pressing need for firms to leverage AI effectively. This realization nurtured the development of 'kAIkei Academy' and 'Accoungent' to promote AI adoption in accounting firms, thereby uplifting the industry's value creation capabilities.

Overview of 'kAIkei Academy'

The 'kAIkei Academy' offers a specialized training program focused on AI application for accounting professionals. By utilizing real-world case studies from accounting environments, it provides practical training using state-of-the-art tools, including large language models (LLMs) and AI optical character recognition (OCR). The curriculum features:

- An AI training roadmap specifically for accounting tasks.
- Hands-on experience replacing core accounting functions with AI.
- Strategies for improvement and automation within business processes.
- Development and implementation of AI agents addressing specific firm challenges.

Through this program, participants will cultivate the skills necessary to identify problem areas and deploy generative AI to effectively resolve them.

Overview of 'Accoungent'

On the other hand, 'Accoungent' is a comprehensive AI consulting service aimed specifically at accounting firm leaders and executives. It offers end-to-end support from the selection of AI tools to the design of business workflows and assistance in establishing AI post-implementation. The key features include:

- Creation of AI integration scenarios linked to corporate strategic planning.
- Automation of existing business tasks.
- Programs to enhance the immediate productivity of younger staff members.
- Support for developing new services aimed at clients.

Target Audience and Launch Timeline

Both programs, 'kAIkei Academy' and 'Accoungent,' will begin formal offerings nationwide to small to large-scale accounting firms from August 1, 2025. In the first year, the rollout will be limited to just 30 selected firms to gather valuable feedback, which will inform the refinement of content and support structures.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, YOU&YOU aims to drive the growth of AI utilization and the elevation of value within the accounting industry through its 'kAIkei Academy' and 'Accoungent' programs. The mission is to transform accounting offices into organizations that do not feel threatened by AI but instead harness its capabilities. Additionally, the company is committed to the co-development of new client proposal models, support for hiring young talent, and the establishment of communities focused on enhancing value creation in the accounting field.

Company Overview

- Company Name: YOU&YOU Co., Ltd.
- Location: 8-24 Hamakawa, Chatan, Okinawa 904-0112, Japan
- Operating Base: 1-6-5 Nishimura Building, Tanimachi, Chuo, Osaka 540-0012, Japan
- Representative: Yuto Nishii, CEO
- Business Activities: AI solution development, cloud ERP implementation support, consulting for the accounting industry, educational and training services.
- Website: YOU&YOU
- Contact: Hiroyuki Tanase, COO, AI Solutions Division, Phone: 090-7883-4901, Email: info@youandyou

Please note that the product names and services mentioned in this release are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies. The content is accurate as of the release date but may be subject to change without notice.