Cocoo Opens New Office in Naruto City As Part of Startup Support Initiative

Cocoo Opens New Office in Naruto City

Cocoo Inc., headquartered in Chiyoda, Tokyo, has recently launched its newest office in Naruto City, Tokushima Prefecture, under the city’s startup support initiative, known as "Naruto Startup Support" (なるスタ). This office, inaugurated on June 4, 2026, represents Cocoo's eighth base of operations focusing on revitalizing local communities, becoming the first establishment in the Shikoku area.

The Naruto city government has recognized Cocoo's efforts, which align with their mission of aiding startups facing challenges in crucial areas, including credibility, funding, and visibility in the early stages of their businesses. This initiative aims to create a nurturing environment for startups to not only survive but thrive in the region.

Background of the Naruto Office Opening

Naruto City, the third largest urban area by population in Tokushima Prefecture, is facing a significant demographic challenge due to declining birth rates and the outmigration of young residents. This has led local authorities to proactively attract a diverse range of industries, including manufacturing and information communication sectors. The city is keen on fostering entrepreneurial initiatives and creating an ecosystem that encourages the growth of local businesses.

The new Naruto Office is a strategic step by Cocoo to address these community concerns directly. This office will facilitate the employment and training of local women, specifically those without digital experience, nurturing them into DX (Digital Transformation) professionals. The initiative, known as “Chisan Chikatsu” (地産地活), aims to create appealing job opportunities for the workforce in Naruto, thereby preventing talent outflow and promoting women's empowerment within the community.

The Vision of Cocoo’s Regional Engagement

Cocoo's mission is encapsulated by the vision of utilizing digital technology to promote a diverse and inclusive society. The company actively recruits women from various backgrounds, providing them with essential skills in digital transformation through specialized programs. With 82% of its workforce being female, Cocoo has effectively positioned itself as a leader in advocating for women's participation in digital sectors.

"Our goal is to create job opportunities that allow people to work freely according to their life stages," said Yusuke Irie, CEO of Cocoo. The newly established office is set to play a vital role in fostering a sustainable supply of digital talent, aiming to rectify the local labor shortages by supporting women's careers in technology-related fields.

The Office Location

The Naruto Office is located at 651 Minami-Hama, Naruto City, Tokushima Prefecture, embodying Cocoo's commitment to harness local talent and transform the landscape of employment in the region.

Naruto City Overview

Located in the northeastern part of Tokushima Prefecture, Naruto City is a dynamic blend of natural beauty and economic potential. Known for its agricultural outputs, including Naruto Kintoki sweet potatoes and Naruto wakame seaweed, it boasts a diverse industrial structure, from traditional agricultural practices to cutting-edge technology and tourism driven by natural attractions like the famed whirlpools.

Commitment to Local Growth

Cocoo aims to tackle local development issues head-on through its long-term strategy "VISION 2030," which targets the establishment of 30 regional offices across Japan. The company is focused on enhancing productivity and providing equitable salaries across regions, ultimately fostering an environment where everyone can thrive professionally.

In light of the increasing recognition of their efforts, Cocoo has secured its position as a frontrunner in the diversity and inclusion arena, evidenced by their significant accolades including a top rank in the Forbes Japan Women Award 2023.

As Cocoo continues to galvanize its local engagement and drive transformative change through digital empowerment, the Naruto Office stands as a testament to their long-term vision for sustainable community development and social inclusion.