#Japan #Shibuya #Eikei University #regional growth #Industry-Academia

Eikei University's Recent Event on Collaborative Growth

On October 27, 2025, Eikei University hosted an enlightening event titled "From Regional Synergy to Corporate Growth: Exploring the Potential of Industry-Academia Collaboration through Eikei University Co-Creation Projects." The venue, The Place Shibuya in Tokyo's Shibuya Ward, welcomed participants from various metropolitan companies, aiming to foster discussions on creating new corporate values through regional collaboration.

The central theme revolved around the idea that entering rural markets goes beyond merely contributing to society; it can serve as a vital foundation for creating corporate growth. Throughout the day, participants engaged in lectures, case studies, and networking activities, providing multiple perspectives on the topics of industry-academia cooperation and regional revitalization.

Keynote Address on Regional Revitalization

A highlight of the event was the keynote address delivered by Ryō Katō, Director of the Social Innovation Division at Pasona Group. His presentation, titled "Pasona's Approach to Regional Revitalization," centered on innovative working styles that include regional side jobs, workations, and telecommuting initiatives aimed at rural revitalization. Katō passionately conveyed how businesses could establish sustainable growth potential by connecting with local communities.

Eikei University's Co-Creation Projects

Professor Yoshinobu Hayata, the head of the Industry-Academia Collaboration and Research Promotion Center at Eikei University, took the stage to introduce the university’s practical educational program, the Co-Creation Project. This initiative encourages collaboration among companies, local governments, and students to address societal challenges. Many attendees expressed interest in the unique framework that explores corporate challenges alongside students, aiming to turn insights into real business creation.

Learning from Corporate Case Studies on Regional Revitalization

The latter part of the event featured presentations from two prominent companies engaged in effective regional revitalization initiatives:

1. Kuniaki Tohara, Deputy General Manager of Yasuhito Sales Promotion & Area Action at Yoshimoto Kogyo Co., shared insights on how entertainment, through initiatives like “resident comedians,” can actively engage and revitalize local communities.
2. Kenichi Kazumi, Head of the Regional Co-Creation Unit within the Policy Project Co-Creation Team at Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance Co., provided a comprehensive overview of their collaborations focusing on disaster prevention, decarbonization, and regional economic revitalization.

Networking Beyond Boundaries

As the event drew to a close, participants, speakers, and Eikei University representatives took part in a networking session that fostered deeper connections. Attendees appreciated the knowledge gained on strategic regional partnerships and were encouraged by the collaborative frameworks suggested between universities and businesses. This interaction created fertile ground for establishing new networks aimed at future collaborations.

Looking Ahead

Eikei University aspires to leverage the insights and networks developed during this event to expand opportunities for diverse entities in both Hiroshima and the metropolitan area, promoting environments where learning and growth can thrive collectively.

Contact Information

If you have any inquiries, please reach out to the Academic Planning Office at Eikei University via email at [email protected] or call 082-225-6312.

For more information about Eikei University, visit the official website.