#Japan #Tokyo #Sports #Now Do #CORPORATE LEAGUE

Launch of the CORPORATE LEAGUE: Revitalizing Corporate Communities through Sports

In a collaborative effort, Now Do, a company specializing in the development and operation of 4v4 soccer, along with Undou Communications and Persol Innovation, has launched a new corporate sports league called the CORPORATE LEAGUE. This initiative aims to activate the workforce by fostering improved communication, collaboration, and overall well-being among employees through spirited competition.

Background of the CORPORATE LEAGUE

In recent years, workplace dynamics have significantly changed, leading to issues such as poor internal communication and decreased employee belongingness. As companies face increased pressures to connect internally and with external partners, the need for a system that fosters these connections has become essential.

The CORPORATE LEAGUE aims to leverage the common experiences and enthusiasm generated by sports to create a vibrant community among employees and corporations. By focusing on three realms of activation—communication, business networks, and well-being—this league aims to rejuvenate corporate culture and create lasting connections within and between companies.

What is the CORPORATE LEAGUE?

The CORPORATE LEAGUE enhances the competitive spirit among employees who represent their companies in various sports competitions. Employees band together as teams, competing under their corporate banner, creating a unique atmosphere that fosters mutual respect and understanding amidst the thrill of competition. This experience not only enhances internal relationships but also nurtures connections with other companies, leading to ongoing dialogue and collaborative opportunities.

As teams participate in intense competitions, they not only imbibe a sense of belonging but also create respect and camaraderie that can lead to collaborations and new business ventures. Thus, the CORPORATE LEAGUE serves as an incubator for corporate engagement and continuous development through sports.

Core Values: The Three Activations of the CORPORATE LEAGUE

The CORPORATE LEAGUE focuses on generating three key activations through sports:

1. Organizational Activation (Communication): Employees participating in serious competition under their company name fosters shared experiences that enhance internal communication across various departments.

2. Business Activation (Inter-Company Network): By using sports as a bridge, companies forge significant competitive relationships, which can evolve into collaborative business opportunities and new communities.

3. Well-being Activation (Vitality): Engaging in competitions increases opportunities for physical activity, enhancing overall vitality among employees, which in turn, boosts their performance and productivity within the organization.

Managing the CORPORATE LEAGUE

The operational framework of the CORPORATE LEAGUE is a joint effort between Now Do, Undou Communications, and Persol Innovation, pooling their unique expertise to create an effective management structure.

First Event: Launching the CORPRORATE LEAGUE 4v4

The first competitive event of the CORPORATE LEAGUE will feature the 4v4 soccer format, devised by renowned soccer player Keisuke Honda. This format, known for its intense gameplay in a shorter time frame, promotes high engagement levels. This makes it an ideal choice for kicking off the league, showcasing both competitiveness and community-building in a dynamic environment.

In an effort to broaden participation, the league plans to introduce various other sports in the future, moving beyond the 4v4 format as it develops.

Participating Companies in the 4v4 POC (Proof of Concept)

From January to March 2026, several companies will participate in the POC phase of the CORPORATE LEAGUE:

• - KDDI Corporation (Main Partner for 4v4)
• - Toyota Motor Corporation (Partner for 4v4 JAPAN CUP 2025)
• - AbemaTV
• - Dentsu Inc.
• - Toyota Connix Pro
• - Hakuhodo
• - Now Do Inc. (Organizer)
• - Undou Communications (Organizer)
• - Persol Innovation (Organizer)

During the POC, these companies will engage in practical competitions to validate several aspects:

• - Optimization of competition rules and formats.
• - Operational assessments for event and league management.
• - Evaluation of the league's value for companies (internal communication, inter-company networks, and well-being).

Insights, data, and participant feedback gained during the POC will be utilized to refine the league's design and operations ahead of its official launch planned for 2026.

Timeline of Events

Comments from Company Representatives

Keisuke Honda, President of Now Do:
“Sports not only foster individual growth but can strengthen the relationships within organizations and the broader society. The CORPORATE LEAGUE aims to tackle fundamental issues faced by companies today by facilitating respect and connectivity through competitive sports.”

Yusuke Wakabayashi, CEO of Undou Communications:
“Through the CORPORATE LEAGUE, we are uncovering the transformative power sports can unleash in a corporate environment, enhancing respect and connectivity among out team players.”

Seiya Oura, President of Persol Innovation:
“By fostering common experiences through sports, we hope to elevate team unity and creativity, moving beyond traditional company barriers.”

About 4v4 Soccer

4v4 is a new form of soccer devised to engage younger players and energize the sports culture in Japan, especially for children aged U10 and U12. Within this format, teams compete in quick 10-minute matches. The introduction of a shot clock and a flexible role for goalkeepers promotes an engaging experience and encourages intrinsic motivation among young participants...

For more details about the 4v4 initiative, visit 4v4 Official Website.

Company Overviews

Now Do, Inc.

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Led by Keisuke Honda, Now Do is dedicated to fostering a world where everyone can pursue their dreams through the power of sports and education. The company seeks to address social issues affecting children and provide them with opportunities to challenge themselves through organized sports competitions.

Undou Communications, Inc.

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Operating the SPORTS BULL platform, Undou Communications has established itself as a leader in broadcasting live sports through digital mediums while also supporting student and amateur sports initiatives.

Persol Innovation, Inc.

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Initiated to foster innovative business solutions within the Persol Group, Persol Innovation focuses on developing tools and services to support workforce integration, enhancement and growth in various industries.