#Japan #Aichi #The Small Things #Aichi Innovation #Sports Clubs

Aichi Prefecture Launches 2026 Sports Innovation Project

Aichi Prefecture has initiated a new collaboration program aimed at uniting sports clubs and organizations with startups and businesses for mutual innovation and problem-solving. The project, managed by The Small Things Co., Ltd., seeks to create new value by blending the existing challenges faced by local sports entities with the expertise and technology offered by companies and startups.

Program Overview

The call for participation in the '2026 Aichi Sports Innovation Project' targets sports clubs and organizations operating within Aichi Prefecture. The initiative encourages these entities to actively engage in addressing their unique challenges and enhancing their contributions to community and societal issues through innovative collaborations with businesses.

The recruitment period runs from June 9, 2026, to June 24, 2026, with applications accepted for free. Detailed information about eligibility, participation guidelines, and the application process can be found on the AiSIA NEWS website.

Goals of the Program

This program aims to leverage the challenges sports clubs face as a springboard to establish innovative collaboration projects. The focus will be on combining these local challenges with technologies, services, and insights provided by participating companies and startups. By doing so, the program endeavors to create new ventures that bridge the gap between the sports and other industries.

The application's highlights include:

• - Problem-solving through collaboration
• - Free participation for applicant organizations
• - Opportunities to engage in dialogue with startups and businesses
• - Creating a platform for mutual growth and value creation

Benefits for Participating Organizations

Organizations that join the program can systematically arrange their challenges alongside proposed collaboration topics with businesses. They will receive actionable proposals from these companies that can lead to effective solutions. Participants will receive ongoing support from the program’s team as they work on project development and design experiments. Additionally, there will be opportunities to showcase achievements and project outcomes during reporting sessions.

Recruitment Targets

The '2026 Sports Innovation Project' is particularly focused on sports clubs, competitive organizations, and related entities operating within Aichi Prefecture. As a next step, the program will also seek participation from businesses and startups, anticipated to occur in July 2026.

Program Implementation Timeline

The expected timeline for the program is as follows:
1. Recruitment of Sports Clubs: June 9, 2026 - June 24, 2026
2. Individual Hearings: June 25, 26, and 29, 2026, from 13:00 to 17:00
3. Recruitment of Companies: July 2026
4. Proposal Selection and Contracting with Companies: August - September 2026
5. Project Development and Experimentation: September 2026 - March 2027
6. Final Reporting: March 2027

Application Process

Interested parties are encouraged to visit the AiSIA NEWS page to access the application form. For any questions or concerns regarding the application, the project office welcomes inquiries and can provide assistance with organizing application content and aligning interests with the program.

About The Small Things Co., Ltd.

The Small Things is a pioneering company in collaborative project management in the sports realm. It engages diverse stakeholders including government bodies, businesses, and non-profit organizations, facilitating dialogue, co-creation, and sustained project support. The organization is committed to crafting innovative sporting experiences, enhancing fan relationships, and developing community-oriented sports initiatives.

For more information on this initiative, please visit The Small Things’ website at www.the-small-things.com.