CAMPFIRE Launches Disaster Support Program for Kumamoto Earthquake Victims

In response to the severe damage caused by the Kumamoto earthquake of 2026, CAMPFIRE, a leading crowdfunding platform based in Tokyo, has announced the launch of its Disaster Support Program. This initiative is designed to assist businesses that suffered as a result of the earthquake in securing the financial resources necessary for recovery and continuity of operations.

Overview of the Program

The Disaster Support Program will provide critical support to businesses directly affected by the earthquake, allowing them to raise funds through CAMPFIRE’s crowdfunding service without incurring standard service fees. Here are the key features of the initiative:

Target Projects

Eligible participants for this program include businesses located in municipalities where the disaster relief law was applied due to the earthquake. The support is aimed at projects focused on recovery, reconstruction, and ongoing business operations.

For businesses outside the listed municipalities that also experienced damage, consultation is available to determine eligibility on a case-by-case basis. It's noteworthy, however, that funds used for personal living expenses will not be covered under this program, and there are no restrictions regarding the legal status of the businesses applying.

Support Features

1. Fee Exemption: Businesses launching new crowdfunding campaigns will have the CAMPFIRE service fees completely waived, paying only a nominal 5% transaction fee (excluding tax).
2. Extended Support for Ongoing Projects: For businesses already engaged in projects at the time of the earthquake, CAMPFIRE is providing support through extended fundraising periods and waiving early payment fees.

For further details, please visit the special support page.

Application Period

The application period for this program is set from July 29, 2026, until November 30, 2026. All projects must be officially launched by January 31, 2027. Additional adjustments may be made to the timeline based on the evolving situation.

Application Process

Interested businesses can apply through a dedicated form available on the CAMPFIRE website. The application process includes:
1. Submission: Complete the application form.
2. Eligibility Notification: Within 1 to 2 business days, applicants will receive feedback regarding their eligibility.
3. Project Preparation and Review: Typically takes about 2 to 3 weeks for approval.
4. Project Launch and Funding Transfer: After fundraising ends, payments will be processed by the end of the following month or as soon as 4 business days under the early payment option.

Ongoing Projects Support

For businesses that currently have fundraising initiatives running, CAMPFIRE offers:

- Extension of Fundraising Period: Increasing the duration for which funds can be raised, with variations depending on the crowdfunding model chosen.
- Free Early Payment Services: The fee for early payments will be waived, with funds sent within 4 business days after the fundraising closes.

Non-Profit Support

While this program primarily targets businesses, there are also provisions for non-profit organizations engaged in recovery efforts. These entities can launch crowdfunding campaigns with zero service fees through the CAMPFIRE for Social Good platform. More details about this can be found here.

CAMPFIRE Company Overview

Founded on the mission to facilitate diverse values through crowdfunding, CAMPFIRE is one of Japan's largest crowdfunding platforms. It serves a wide range of clients from individuals and creators to corporations and non-profits.

- Company Name: CAMPFIRE, Inc.
- Representative: CEO Makoto Nakajima
- Location: 201, Hillside Terrace F, 18-8 Sarugakucho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
- Established: January 14, 2011
- Capital: 7.434 billion yen (including capital surplus) as of the end of January 2026.
- Website: CAMPFIRE Website
- Business Activity: Planning, development, and operation of crowdfunding services.