Chiba Prefecture Launches Free Digital Transformation Support Training for SMEs

Free Digital Transformation Training in Chiba Prefecture

Chiba Prefecture is excited to announce the launch of its "Digital Transformation Support Training" aimed specifically at small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) within the region. The training program, which is entirely free of charge, addresses common concerns faced by businesses adjusting to digital technology, such as shifting from paper processes and Excel spreadsheets. For many SMEs, navigating the digital landscape presents challenges, including uncertainty about current progress and the right steps to take.

Many companies may find themselves feeling overwhelmed when considering digital strategies or the integration of AI into their operations. Studies indicate that nearly 70% of SMEs remain at the early stages of digitalization, primarily relying on analog methods. However, those businesses that embrace digital technologies and AI tend to report improved productivity and overall performance.

A Tailored Approach to Digitalization

The training program, organized by the Chiba Industry Promotion Center, offers a pragmatic approach to digital transformation rooted in realistic, manageable steps. The initiative emphasizes the importance of fostering existing employees' skills rather than solely relying on new hires to bridge the gap in digital talent.

Three Steps to Seamless Digital Integration

To ensure that every participant can engage with the training at their own pace, the program is divided into three steps:

1. On-Demand Video Lectures: Participants can access short, 30-minute lectures covering fundamental themes like business inventory through the lens of digital challenges, without the burden of complex jargon. This initial step also introduces useful diagnostic tools to help businesses assess their current digital status.

2. Interactive Workshops: These sessions provide hands-on experience in small groups, where participants explore practical applications of digital tools and AI technology at dedicated venues in Kashiwa and Chiba. Attendees will collaborate with experts to create actionable digital plans tailored to their business needs.

3. Personalized Support: For a limited number of selected companies, up to 10 hours of dedicated assistance will be provided by experienced consultants. They will work directly with businesses to tackle individual challenges, helping define the appropriate digital direction and tools necessary without resorting to excessive investment in complex systems.

Incentives for Participants

To encourage continued learning and self-sufficiency, all participating enterprises will receive exclusive access to the "DX/AI Course (E-learning)" at no cost. This popular course from Edge Technology aims to boost IT literacy across the organization, ensuring that knowledge gained is not confined to the training period.

Enrollment Information

Target Audience: Business owners and digital operations personnel from small and medium-sized enterprises in Chiba Prefecture.

Cost: Participation and consultations are completely free.

Enrollment Period: Open until December 31, 2026, although some courses may close early due to capacity limits.

How to Register: Interested businesses can easily register online through the designated announcement site or via the application form in as little as one minute. The registration links are available here:

Chiba Prefecture is collaborating with Edge Technology Inc., a firm focused on resolving various societal issues through artificial intelligence and digital solutions. Founded in 2014, Edge Technology believes in connecting people and businesses for a more interconnected and enriched society through AI and IoT.

Company Information:
Name: EDGE Technology Inc.
Location: 4F Daiwa Kanda Mikuracho Building, 7-1 Kanda Mikuracho, Chiyoda City, Tokyo
CEO: Yuta Shimada
Website: Edge Technology