#Japan #Shibuya #CAMPFIRE #Fukushima Bank #Next Fukushima

CAMPFIRE and Fukushima Bank Join Forces for a New Initiative

In an inspiring move to support the future of Fukushima, CAMPFIRE Co., Ltd., one of Japan's largest crowdfunding platforms, has partnered with Fukushima Bank to launch a project titled 'Next Lamp, Next Fukushima.' Set to begin on March 9, 2026, this initiative aims to empower local businesses by leveraging the power of crowdfunding as a means to build a mutually supportive community.

Background and Significance

As we approach the 15th anniversary of the Great East Japan Earthquake, the challenges faced by the affected areas continue to evolve. CAMPFIRE has made a commitment to adapt its support to the changing needs of the communities. Having started operations just three months after the disaster in June 2011, the company's core focus has always been on creating mechanisms of mutual aid through crowdfunding.

With the establishment of a partnership with Fukushima Bank in August 2023, CAMPFIRE has been actively supporting numerous projects, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable recovery. This new initiative will spotlight the aspirations of local entrepreneurs, casting their ambitions as 'lamps' illuminating the path forward for Fukushima's future. By utilizing crowdfunding, the goal is to spread empathy and support nationwide, ensuring that these entrepreneurial 'lamps' can shine brightly.

Outline of 'Next Lamp, Next Fukushima'

• - Initiative Name: Next Lamp, Next Fukushima
• - Purpose: To utilize crowdfunding to support local ventures and expand the network of support around enterprises born in Fukushima.
• - Target Participants: Businesses within Fukushima who are interested in embarking on crowdfunding endeavors.
• - Application Period: March 9, 2026, to December 30, 2026.

Projects launched during this time will be eligible for support.

• - Benefits: Participants will receive free access to several usually paid options, including:

1. Project listing on CAMPFIRE’s website dedicated feature page.
2. Support from conceptualization through project design.
3. Promotional assistance (press releases, ads on Fukushima Bank’s app).
4. Post-project data analysis and feedback.

• - See the Feature Page: Next Lamp, Next Fukushima

Commitment to Disaster Relief and Local Financial Partnerships

CAMPFIRE’s dedication to assisting disaster recovery is evident in its swift response to the Noto Peninsula Earthquake in 2024. Following the disaster, fundraising commenced the day after, collecting over 700 million yen from more than 50,000 supporters by January 2026. Moreover, in January 2026, CAMPFIRE signed a disaster assistance agreement with the city of Hachinohe in Aomori Prefecture that was also affected by the earthquake, enabling further support based on direct assessments of local needs by CAMPFIRE team members.

Additionally, CAMPFIRE has collaborated with over 100 local banks and credit unions to strengthen community support initiatives. Looking ahead, they plan to introduce fee reduction measures for urgent postings and continue creating new business opportunities with financial institutions, reinforcing the network of support for regional challenges.

About CAMPFIRE

CAMPFIRE has the mission: 'Turning Passion into Value.' It's Japan's largest crowdfunding platform, serving individuals, creators, businesses, nonprofits, schools, and local governments. It was founded on January 14, 2011, and is headquartered in Shibuya, Tokyo. With a paid-in capital of over 7.34 billion yen as of January 2026, it remains dedicated to facilitating impactful crowdfunding campaigns for a diverse array of initiatives.

• - Company Name: CAMPFIRE Co., Ltd.
• - Representative: Nakajima Makoto, President
• - Location: 201 Hillside Terrace F, 18-8 Sarugakucho, Shibuya, Tokyo
• - Foundation Date: January 14, 2011
• - Capital: 7.34 billion yen (including capital surplus, as of January 2026)
• - Website: CAMPFIRE
• - Business Activities: Planning, development, and management of crowdfunding projects.