Forval and Sanjo Credit Bank Form Comprehensive Partnership to Support Local Enterprises

Forval Partners with Sanjo Credit Bank

On September 1, 2025, Forval Co., Ltd., headquartered in Shibuya, Tokyo, announced its comprehensive partnership agreement with Sanjo Credit Bank located in Sanjo City, Niigata Prefecture. This agreement aims to bolster the support system for regional small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) under Forval's initiative, the "F-Japan" project.

The partnership is part of Forval's broader commitment to revolutionizing the concept of ordinary business practices by implementing visibility in ESG management alongside a robust consulting approach. This includes being recognized as a collective of "corporate doctors" or next-generation management consultants.

Background and Objectives of the Agreement

This agreement not only aims to strengthen local SME support frameworks but also emphasizes collaboration across various sectors, including local government, universities, financial institutions, and regional consortia within Niigata Prefecture. Both Forval and Sanjo Credit Bank share a mutual understanding of the necessity for improvements in corporate management. This collaboration will build on shared goals to provide substantial assistance in overcoming various management challenges faced by local SMEs.

By merging efforts between the public and private sectors, as well as academic institutions and financial entities, both organizations intend to enhance the region's economic vitality and promote sustainable growth. They will also adapt their services to better meet the needs of their customers, offering collaborative support tailored to address specific challenges.

Details of the Agreement

The partnership entails joint efforts on several fronts, including:
1. Organizing seminars and study groups
2. Collaborating on local initiatives involving various sectors of industry and government
3. Fostering local talent development
4. Sharing statistical information relevant to local businesses
5. Addressing other challenges faced by regional enterprises

Comments from Forval

Tomonori Nakamura, Head of the Niigata Project at Forval's Kanto and Koshinetsu Company, remarked, "Through this partnership with Sanjo Credit Bank, we will collaboratively address the challenges faced by local SMEs. We aim to contribute positively to the revitalization of small and medium enterprises in the Niigata area and beyond. We look forward to enhancing our cooperative relationship further, continuously working towards the sustainable development of our community."

About Forval Co., Ltd.

Founded on September 18, 1980, Forval is a prominent firm focused on providing support for ESG management through its consulting services. The company's capital is approximately 4.15 billion yen, and it is publicly traded under the stock code 8275. Forval specializes in five key areas: information and communication, international business, environmental management, human resources and education, and entrepreneurship and business succession.

By aligning with Japanese government initiatives advocating for green, digital, and localized developmental strategies while addressing declining birth rates, Forval is playing a crucial role in nurturing DX and GX talent throughout Japan. This talent is essential for revitalizing local economies, fostering a cycle of sustainable regional development under the "F-Japan" initiative. Notably, Forval is increasingly focusing on the transparency and visibility of ESG management, particularly concerning human capital development, ensuring they remain at the forefront of industry standards.

For more detailed information about Forval, please visit their official website.