#Japan #Tokyo #Another Works #Side Jobs #Public Employment

A New Era for Public Employees in 2026

In June 2025, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications released a notification aimed at clarifying the rules surrounding side jobs for local public employees. This marked the beginning of a new chapter, as opportunities for public sector employees to engage in private sector activities would be formally recognized, provided certain criteria are met. The new framework is expected to help these professionals glean insights from diverse fields and apply them to enhance their core duties and improve administrative services.

This policy shift indicates that allowing public employees to engage in side jobs is not just about easing restrictions; it's a pivotal development in the strategic human resource management practices at municipal levels.

Another Works' Commitment

Since its inception in May 2019, Another Works has championed the concept of "side jobs," believing it to be an indispensable way of working that allows individuals to achieve financial gain, skill enhancement, career advancement, and self-fulfillment across various domains. By the middle of 2026, the company’s primary service, a job matching platform called the "Side Job Cloud," has amassed an impressive 100,000 registered talents and collaborated with 2,500 private enterprises, achieving partnerships with 250 municipalities.

With the new regulations set to take effect in 2026, Another Works has designed a dedicated website for public employees interested in taking on side jobs. The goal is to create a framework that encourages local governments and employees to venture into new career paths, thus expanding opportunities for professional growth.

Comprehensive Support Initiatives

Until now, Another Works has primarily focused on creating diverse side job opportunities for freelancers and business professionals in the private sector. However, there’s a growing interest in career development among public employees, particularly concerning side jobs and reskilling. Despite this interest, many face obstacles such as a lack of knowledge about relevant policies, difficulties in taking initial steps, and insufficient connections with the private sector. These challenges highlight the need for a supportive and informative infrastructure.

To address these concerns, Another Works aims to cultivate an environment where public employees can confidently explore side job possibilities through its specialized website. This platform will not only facilitate registrations but will also support municipalities in designing their side job frameworks, establishing approval criteria, creating business opportunities across sectors, and offering avenues for reskilling and cross-border education.

The ultimate vision is for side jobs to become a standard career option for public employees. By fostering a fluid movement of talent across public and private sectors, Another Works endeavors to support every individual’s journey toward new challenges and contribute to developing sustainable governmental organizations and thriving communities.

Enhancing Information Dissemination

Another Works is also committed to disseminating information regarding career development and the promotion of side jobs among public employees. Notably, on June 24, 2026, a discussion event titled "Public Alumni: Expanding Public Employee Careers through Side Jobs and Reskilling" will take place, featuring prominent speakers from various sectors.

Additionally, Another Works has launched a podcast series called "#Public Employee Side Job Radio," which focuses on real stories from public employees currently engaged in side work. This program aims to highlight their motivations, challenges, and the positive impact of their side jobs on their primary roles and community engagement.

About Another Works

Another Works operates with the vision of maximizing opportunities for all those willing to take on new challenges. Through its flagship service, the Side Job Cloud, the company connects individuals with businesses and municipalities, creating an environment where diverse perspectives and experiences can intersect, leading to expanded career options. Another Works aspires to remain a pivotal starting point for individuals eager to embark on their unique journeys without dramatically altering their current frameworks.

For public employees interested in registering for side jobs, visit here. Local governments considering side job systems can find more information here.