Promoting Sustainable Development Goals through Local Revitalization Initiatives

Promoting SDGs Through Local Revitalization Initiatives

The Japan Marriage Support Association, based in Minato, Tokyo, has recently joined the "Local Revitalization SDGs Public-Private Partnership Platform," established by the Cabinet Office. This initiative aims to promote the implementation of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) throughout Japan and stimulate local revitalization through partnerships among various stakeholders. As of September 30, 2025, around 8,100 organizations, including local governments, related ministries, and private companies, have already participated in this platform.

What is the Local Revitalization SDGs Public-Private Partnership Platform?

This platform serves as a collaborative space between public and private sectors, aiming to facilitate the domestic implementation of SDGs and connect them to local revitalization efforts. It acts as a catalyst for innovation and development in rural areas by promoting sustainable practices and community involvement.

For further information, visit: Local Revitalization SDGs Platform

Commitment to Achieving SDGs

Since 2020, the Japan Marriage Support Association has been actively promoting the "Iju-Kon" (Migration Marriage) project, aimed at simultaneously supporting marriage and relocation to rural areas. This initiative addresses local sustainable development and countermeasures against declining birth rates. Here’s a glimpse of how this project aligns with key SDGs:

Goal 3: Ensure Healthy Lives and Promote Well-being for All

The "Iju-Kon" project supports young individuals hoping to relocate to rural areas, thereby fostering a sustainable lifestyle that prioritizes family upbringing in harmony with nature. This contributes significantly to building healthy community environments where people can thrive.

Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

Through the "Iju-Kon" initiative, we provide relocation seekers with job and entrepreneurial opportunities within local enterprises. Utilizing national and municipal support systems, we create an environment conducive to diverse work styles such as telecommuting and dual residence, thereby promoting sustainable economic revitalization within communities.

Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

By attracting individuals seeking to relocate to areas experiencing population decline and aging, the "Iju-Kon" project works collaboratively with local governments. This fosters stable living conditions and encourages family formation, contributing to the sustainability of local regions.

Overview of the Iju-Kon Project

The "Iju-Kon" project is the pioneering national initiative that simultaneously offers marriage partner introductions and relocation support for singles wishing to move from urban centers to rural communities. In collaboration with local governments, it addresses significant issues like declining birth rates and increased unmarried populations.

As of September 2025, over 1,800 individuals have applied for support across 12 prefectures, initiated by a comprehensive approach that extends from matchmaking events to lifelong support concerning living, work, and childcare.

- Target Participants: Singles desiring to relocate for marriage
- Eligible Age: Approximately 20 to 50 years old
- Cost: Free of charge (No registration or usage fees)

The conditions may vary based on the accepting municipality. Currently, key municipalities participating include:

- Hokkaido (Bihoro Town)
- Chiba (Otaki Town)
- Toyama (Himi City, Nyuzenshimo Town)
- Niigata (Awashimaura Village)
- Nagano (Komae City, Yamanouchi Town, among others)
- Gifu (multiple cities)
- Tokushima (Naka Town)
- Kochi (Shimonita Town)

For application, please visit our dedicated website: Iju-Kon Application

About Japan Marriage Support Association

Established in 2010, the Japan Marriage Support Association aims to create a safe environment for singles seeking genuine relationships through various marriage support events and seminars across the nation. In recent years, the association has been engaged in the "Iju-Kon" project, which merges marriage support with local revitalization efforts to tackle region-specific challenges related to declining populations.