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Foster Innovation in Shinjo Village with WESEEK's Local×TECH Hackathon

WESEEK, a pioneer in software development headquartered in Shinjuku, Tokyo, is proud to collaborate with Shinjo Village in Mimasaka District, Okayama Prefecture, to host the Local×TECH Hackathon. This exciting event aims to bring together students and engineers to address localized issues in tourism and agriculture through innovative web applications.

Event Background and Purpose

The initiative stems from WESEEK's desire to explore how technology can address pressing regional problems. Shinjo Village has recognized challenges in promoting DX (Digital Transformation) in tourism and agriculture, necessitating solutions that cater to its unique circumstances. The alignment of aspirations between WESEEK and Shinjo Village led to this collaboration.

The hackathon will take place over four days, from March 10 to 13, 2026, where diverse teams composed mainly of students will brainstorm ideas and develop functional web application prototypes. The event will not only enhance the technical skills of WESEEK's interns but also provide participating students with hands-on experience in real-world development. Furthermore, successful ideas will evolve into continuous projects aimed at promoting Shinjo’s initiatives among students across the prefecture, ultimately expanding its network of residents and visitors.

Event Details

• - Dates: March 10 (Tuesday) to March 13 (Friday), 2026
• - Location: Brilliant Izu, Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture

1-8-27 Binzan, Ito City

• - Participants: Expected 20 to 30 individuals (currently recruiting)
• - Theme: Develop a web application that resolves local challenges concerning tourism and agriculture in Shinjo Village
• - Judging Criteria:

- Overall Championship (total score)
- Code Award (technical merit)
- Presentation Award (alignment with the theme)
- Future Prospects Award (potential for continued development)
- UI/UX Award (design excellence)

About Shinjo Village

Shinjo Village is situated in the Mimasaka District of Okayama Prefecture and has approximately 1,000 residents. The village is a proud member of the “Most Beautiful Villages in Japan” alliance, striving to enhance its charm while preserving nature and landscapes. With initiatives like declaring the stop of population decline and promoting tourism through forest therapy and the utilization of traditional houses, Shinjo seeks to leverage its unique characteristics for sustainable development. Further details can be found on the official Shinjo Village website.

Application Requirements

Eligibility:
University students, graduate students, vocational students, or technical college students (4th year or above) residing in Okayama Prefecture.
Requirements:
Must have programming experience or a keen interest in app development.
Participation Fee:
Free (transportation to the venue and meals during the event are self-funded)
Application Deadline:
February 23, 2026 (Monday)
Application Method:
Applications can be submitted through the registration form.

The hackathon format encourages participants to work in teams to develop software or applications addressing the given themes within a short timeframe. You can find more details about WESEEK's hackathon initiatives here.

About WESEEK

Founded to specialize in software development and management for over 20 years, WESEEK has actively employed interns since its early days, training a total of 121 intern students. The company has also successfully developed and maintained the OSS product “GROWI” for over eight years.

Company Overview:

• - Name: WESEEK Inc.
• - Representative: Yuki Takei
• - Location: 2-20-15 Nishi-Waseda, Takadanobaba, Shinjuku, Tokyo, ZIP: 169-0051
• - Established: June 2, 2005
• - Business: Software development and sales
• - Corporate Website: WESEEK