#Japan #CAMPFIRE #Hachinohe #DisasterResponse

Disaster Support Program Launched for Hachinohe

On January 27, 2026, Hachinohe City and CAMPFIRE signed an agreement aimed at aiding recovery efforts following the Aomori Eastern Offshore Earthquake that occurred on December 8, 2025. The ceremony was attended by Hachinohe's Mayor Yuichi Kumagai and CAMPFIRE’s CEO Makoto Nakajima. Under this partnership, the two entities are set to launch a crowdfunding support program tailored for local businesses impacted by this significant seismic event.

Background of the Agreement

The earthquake registered a maximum seismic intensity of 6+ and, although there were no recorded casualties, localized infrastructure sustained considerable damage. Post-earthquake conditions revealed increased seismic activity, raising concerns among local business owners, particularly in the food and hospitality sectors. In response to their distress signals regarding operational continuity, Hachinohe City and CAMPFIRE have come together to establish this support program to expedite recovery and promote sustained regional economic revitalization.

Utilizing crowdfunding distinguishes this initiative from traditional aid methods by enabling businesses to share their unique stories and recovery efforts with a wider audience, transforming empathy and support into actionable assistance.

Program Overview

• - Name: Aomori Eastern Offshore Earthquake Disaster Support Program
• - Eligible Businesses: Local businesses in Hachinohe that experienced damage due to the Aomori Eastern Offshore Earthquake. All applications must undergo a required qualification process.
• - Program Details:

- CAMPFIRE’s listing fee is set to 0% (normally 12% tax excluded).
- Support will be provided through local cooperating organizations based in the Hachinohe area.
- A separate processing fee of 5% (tax excluded) will apply.

• - Application Deadline: By February 28, 2026
• - Special Program Website: Visit Program Site

Comments from Officials

Mayor Yuichi Kumagai of Hachinohe
"Thanks to the generous support from CAMPFIRE, we have successfully established this agreement and program. This initiative will enable businesses affected by the earthquake to receive funding support through crowdfunding with minimal costs, empowering them to creatively engage with supporters nationwide. The city is committed to providing as much assistance as possible, including the establishment of recovery grants, and we sincerely ask for the continued support of the community."

CEO Makoto Nakajima of CAMPFIRE
"We extend our heartfelt condolences to all those affected by the Aomori Eastern Offshore Earthquake. Through this collaboration with Hachinohe City, we aim to minimize fee burdens and make crowdfunding an accessible option for local businesses. We will partner with local supporting entities to provide tailored, hands-on assistance to ensure the vibrant street life and proud enterprises of Hachinohe thrive into the future."

About CAMPFIRE Inc.

CAMPFIRE Inc., founded on January 14, 2011, operates one of Japan's largest crowdfunding platforms, promoting various projects from individuals, creators, enterprises, NPOs, schools, and local governments. With a capital of approximately 7.34 billion yen as of December 2023, the company is dedicated to facilitating diverse forms of value creation through crowdfunding.

Company Information

• - Company Name: CAMPFIRE Inc.
• - CEO: Makoto Nakajima
• - Location: 201 Hillside Terrace F, 18−8 Sarugakucho, Shibuya, Tokyo
• - Website: CAMPFIRE Website
• - Business: Planning, development, and operation of crowdfunding initiatives.