Innovative Regional DX Strategies in Hokkaido: From Demonstration to Social Implementation

Innovating Hokkaido: A Seminar on Regional DX Strategies

The Japan Planning Institute (JPI) is hosting a seminar titled "Innovative Regional DX Strategies in Hokkaido: From Demonstration to Social Implementation" on August 7, 2026. This event invites Takashi Murata, the head of the DX Promotion Division at Hokkaido's Economic Department, to share insights on advancing digital transformation (DX) strategies specific to Hokkaido.

Hokkaido has been recognized as a rapidly evolving region, embracing cutting-edge technologies to confront local challenges and promote economic development. With its unique geographical characteristics, including vast land and heavy snowfall, the region faces significant population decline and labor shortages, making it a prime candidate for innovative solutions through advanced technological applications.

The seminar aims to provide participants with practical knowledge about implementing Hokkaido's Society 5.0 initiative and its strategic approach to harnessing AI, drones, and robotics for social implementation. Attendees can expect to learn about specific methodologies, collaboration with local governments, and funding opportunities to engage in regional projects.

Key Topics Covered

1. Overview of Hokkaido and the current state of regional challenges.
2. Vision of Hokkaido's Society 5.0: What the initiative aims to achieve.
3. Steps Towards Realizing Hokkaido's Society 5.0: An in-depth look at the strategic plan, including:
- An outline of the Dakiness Plan for Society 5.0.
- Details on the "Test Field Hokkaido" for societal implementation.
- Examples of successful projects utilizing AI, drones, and other advanced technologies.
- Support initiatives from Hokkaido Prefectural Government to businesses, including matching local municipalities with businesses utilizing future technologies and funding for demonstration projects.
4. Opportunities for Practical Implementation of demonstration projects and potential for socioeconomic benefits within the region.
5. Desired Partnerships: The types of collaborations Hokkaido is seeking for future development and growth.
6. Find your demonstration ground: For businesses searching for application opportunities for their technologies.
7. Q&A Session: Engage directly with the instructor and other attendees.
8. Networking Opportunities: Participants will be able to exchange business cards and discuss potential collaborations directly with the lecturer and peers.

Additional Details

The seminar aligns with the goals of establishing a resilient economy by facilitating direct interactions among policymakers, business leaders, and technologists. Attendees will gain a nuanced understanding of how Hokkaido is positioning itself as a leader in the implementation of DX strategies within Japan.

There will be options for in-person attendance, live streaming, and an archived version for later viewing. The registration fee is 37,660 yen per individual, with discounts available for groups from the same organization and special rates for local government representatives.

Post-seminar, attendees will have opportunities for further inquiries with the speaker and can build valuable networking connections that may lead to future business ventures.

For more information and to register, visit JPI's seminar page. Join us and be part of Hokkaido's transformative journey towards digital advancement!