#Japan #Tokyo #community initiatives #mobility solutions #Toyota Mobility

Toyota Mobility Foundation Initiates Community Mobility Project

The Toyota Mobility Foundation (TMF), led by Chairman Akio Toyoda, is committed to expanding possibilities for local residents and promoting community sustainability and development through its latest phase of the "Mobility Framework Development" project. As part of the initiatives for the 2026 fiscal year, TMF is set to host foundational seminars aimed at individuals interested in establishing mobility solutions tailored to their regions. Additionally, calls for proposals for grants will open for local governments, non-profits, and other organizations working on mobility challenges.

Details of the Foundational Seminar

The foundational seminar will feature experts in regional transportation who will deliver lectures focused on building mobility systems suited to local needs. Participants will receive insights and guidance based on the "Mobility Framework 8 Step - START BOOK -" which outlines essential processes and points for effective implementation.

Key Information

• - Date: April 20, 2026 (Monday) from 1:00 PM to 5:30 PM
• - Location: Hybrid format with online participation via Zoom and in-person at the Toyota Motor Corporation's Tokyo headquarters (1-4-18 Korakuen, Bunkyo City, Tokyo).
• - Participation Fee: Free
• - Capacity: 40 attendees for in-person (First come, first served)
• - Application Period: March 4, 2026 to April 13, 2026

Experts Leading the Seminar

• - Yuto Ihara: Associate Professor at Waseda University Graduate School of Smart Social Infrastructure Technologies, Co-founder of Visualight LLC
• - Masayuki Fukumoto: Guest Associate Professor at Nagoya University Graduate School of Environmental Studies, Representative of Bansosha LLC
• - Itsuki Yoshida: Professor at Fukushima University Faculty of Economics and Management, Specially Appointed Professor at Maebashi Institute of Technology (Cross Appointment)

To register, visit the ChiiMobi HP application form.

Grant Application Information

Organizations that complete the foundational seminar and wish to apply for funding for mobility framework development will be considered for support, including expert advisory assistance and financial assistance through a rigorous selection process.

Grant Categories

1. Funding for research related to the development of mobility frameworks
2. Support for initiatives aimed at commercializing mobility solutions

Grant Duration

• - 1 year, with an option for extension up to 3 years

Grant Amounts

• - From 1 million to 30 million yen per project

Eligibility Criteria for Applicants

• - Local governments, NPOs, citizen groups, various non-profit organizations, and registered groups only within Japan

Note: Applications from for-profit companies and individuals are not accepted.

Application Conditions

Applicants must have attended the foundational seminar. For further eligibility requirements, please refer to the grant application page. Detailed explanation of the grant application process and selection schedule will be provided during the foundational seminar.

Expected Grant Numbers

Approximately 1-2 grants may be awarded.

Schedule Overview

Successful applicants will be determined in August following document screening and interviews.

Application Process for Grants

Those interested in applying for a grant should also apply through the foundational seminar application page. A one-on-one consultation with the experts will be offered in the morning before the seminar for those considering grant applications.

Related Links and Reference Materials

• - Mobility Framework 8 Step - START BOOK -: This serves as an introductory guide to developing mobility frameworks, detailing processes and critical points necessary for effective mobility solutions.
• - For more information on community-based mobility initiatives, visit the ChiiMobi site.

Since its establishment in August 2014, TMF has focused on enhancing society through mobility by respecting the needs of all stakeholders, including customers, business partners, employees, and local communities, while tackling a wide array of mobility challenges worldwide.