The Aichi Sports Future Co-Creation Lab, a comprehensive training program dedicated to developing talent in the sports business sector, officially opens its enrollment for the upcoming session starting September 2026. This initiative, facilitated by The Small Things Inc., is endorsed by the Aichi Prefectural Government and consists of a series of seven engaging workshops designed to empower participants with practical knowledge and innovative skills essential for success in the rapidly evolving sports industry.
Program Overview
The program's objective is to cultivate human resources capable of supporting the sports industry through a series of seminars delivered by experts actively working in the field. Each session will also include hands-on workshops aimed at fostering collaboration between participants and sports teams, ultimately promoting the creation of community and societal value through sports.
Etsushi Tagami, the president of The Small Things and an appointed Sports Business Advisor for Aichi Prefecture, emphasizes the importance of this program: "We are committed to enhancing the development of talent in the region's sports business as we continue our efforts from last year."
Enrollment Details
- - Organizer: Aichi Prefecture
- - Planning and Management: The Small Things Inc.
- - Duration: September 4, 2026 - February 4, 2027 (Seven Sessions)
- - Location: Wink Aichi, Nagoya City, with varying meeting rooms for each session
- - Target Audience: Working adults and students interested in sports business (attendees are encouraged to participate in all seven sessions)
- - Capacity: 30 participants (selected by lottery)
- - Fees:
- AiSIA & Aichi Sports Commission members: ¥28,000
- Other organizations (group): ¥52,800
- Individual participation: ¥38,200
- University/graduate students (discount): ¥8,200
Note: Transportation costs to the venue and online participation fees are the responsibility of the attendees.
Participants from AiSIA or Aichi Sports Commission organizations will also have opportunities for one observer from their organization to join two sessions. Other organizations can send one observer for a single session as well. Information sharing from the course material within their organizations is encouraged for these members, while individual attendees are advised to use the content for personal purposes only.
Program Highlights
The curriculum offers a rich variety of topics across the seven sessions, commencing with an introduction to sports business. Participants will delve into the preparation and management of large-scale international events, the operations of community-oriented professional sports teams, strategies for the 2026 Asian Games, consumer strategy and fan marketing, international case studies on sports clubs, and arena management. Each session concludes with group discussions and individual projects focused on developing business plans in collaboration with sports teams, fostering peer learning and strengthening networks among participants.
In addition, there will be optional follow-up sessions and field work at sports venues to further enhance practical learning experiences. The final session shall feature presentations of the business plans crafted by participants, allowing them to share their insights and achievements with peers.
Application Process
- - Early Registration for Members: For AiSIA and Aichi Sports Commission members as well as returning students, the application window is from July 3 to July 15, 2026.
- - General Registration: For all others, including individuals and students, from July 16 to August 7, 2026.
- - Registration forms are available on the event's official website.
- - Successful applicants will be notified by email within two business days of the registration period closing.
Benefits for Past Participants
This year, former participants of the Aichi Sports Future Co-Creation Lab will enjoy special perks, allowing them to re-enroll and bring new participants from their networks. Not only will they be able to register at the same time as early members, but they can also avail one free attendance for a selected lecture from the full series of seven workshops.
Role of The Small Things
As a key player in the Aichi Sports Innovation Project, The Small Things Inc. specializes in value co-creation in the sports sector. Through this course, we aim to contribute to the development of new community and societal values rooted in sports. Etsushi Tagami's ongoing involvement as both a producer and mentor ensures that participants receive valuable insights and guidance throughout their learning journey.
Inquiries
For questions regarding collaboration or sponsorship, or if interested parties wish to support this initiative, you can reach out through the contact forms available on The Small Things' official website. For inquiries related directly to course content or registration, contact the Aichi Prefectural Sports Bureau at the email provided.
This unique opportunity promises a comprehensive education for those eager to advance their careers in the sports business landscape. Don't miss your chance to contribute to and learn from Aichi's dynamic sports community!