The Small Things and Aichi Prefecture's Collaboration
The Small Things, a Tokyo-based company led by CEO Yoshifumi Tagami, has announced that he has been appointed as the Sports Business Advisor for Aichi Prefecture. This prestigious role, established by the Aichi Prefectural Sports Bureau, is set to last until March 31, 2027.
Aims of the Sports Business Advisor
The initiative seeks to leverage the potential of sports through collaboration with various industries to address regional issues, enhance the appeal of sports, promote health, and nurture talent. The Aichi Sports Business Advisor was created to provide necessary advice on sports business from a multifaceted perspective, ultimately contributing to the revitalization of the region.
The Small Things' Commitment
The Small Things is renowned for its unique approach to sports co-creation consulting in Japan. Their collaboration with Aichi Prefecture began with the award of the 'Regional Issue Resolution Model Project through Sports and Other Industries' scheduled for the fiscal year 2024. Additionally, they are also managing the 'Aichi Sports Future Co-Creation Lab,' a program focused on cultivating sports business talent, and the 'Aichi Sports Innovation Project' set to roll out in 2026. Through these initiatives, The Small Things is committed to enhancing sports innovation in the region continuously.
Tagami believes his wealth of knowledge and network will significantly contribute to solving regional challenges through the promotion of the sports business.
Profile of Yoshifumi Tagami
Yoshifumi Tagami is not only the President of The Small Things but also serves as the Executive Director of the Shizuoka Sports Commission and COO of J.H. Wellness. He has extensive experience leading various projects related to professional sports and community development during his time at DeNA's Sports Business Division. Tagami transitioned to Future Sessions to spearhead sports business co-creation projects after being involved in the J-League's community collaboration initiatives. In 2023, he launched The Small Things, focusing on co-creation in sports. Notable projects include the bid for the 2024 UCI BMX Freestyle World Cup and Japan's first hosting of the innovative Swatch Nines SNOW 2026 event. The company has been actively working on experimental measures harnessing the power of sports, including the award-winning 'Roasso Wellness Program.'
Tagami's Vision
In his own words, Tagami expressed his excitement about his new role. He said, "It is a great honor to be appointed as the Sports Business Advisor for Aichi Prefecture. Aichi is a region rich in both industrial strengths and sports resources, holding immense potential for co-creation between sports and other industries. I hope to draw on the strengths of sports such as crowd attraction, health promotion, and talent nurturing to resolve regional issues and revitalize the region. Our company philosophy—'Small actions can change the world'—will drive my efforts in fostering sports innovation originating from Aichi."
About The Small Things
The Small Things is named after the song 'small things' by the experimental soul band WONK. The company aims to redefine traditional fixed models by emphasizing the impact of small actions. Focused on dialogue and experimental approaches, it collaborates with communities, fanbases, and sponsors to create new sports experiences, enhance fan communication, and execute various collaborative regional projects. Anchored by the spirit of 'We talk slow Tomorrow, how would it be?', The Small Things strives to uncover new value in sports, starting from small steps.