#Japan #Another Works #Oita #Oita Innovators #Naoya Obayashi

Fostering Innovation in Japan: The Role of Oita Innovators Collage

On December 14, 2025, Naoya Obayashi, the CEO of Another Works, took the stage at the Oita Innovators Collage, an event organized by Zynas Co., Ltd. in Oita City, Japan. This initiative aims to cultivate innovative mindsets in the workforce to enhance Japan's competitiveness on the global stage. The need for such platforms arises from alarming statistics indicating a significant decline in Japan's international competitiveness over the past three decades.

Japan's Declining Competitiveness

According to the 2023 World Competitiveness Ranking by the International Institute for Management Development (IMD), Japan ranked 35th out of 64 countries and regions, marking its lowest position to date. This decline necessitates a collective response focused on fostering entrepreneurship and a proactive entrepreneurial spirit.

At Another Works, established in May 2019, the belief in multiple career paths—known as “side gigs”—as a critical aspect of the modern work environment has been central to the company's mission. These side gigs serve various purposes, such as earning supplementary income, skill enhancement, career progression, and personal fulfillment. Through their primary product, the “Side Job Cloud”—a matching platform connecting individuals seeking side jobs with corporations and municipalities—Another Works has made considerable strides. As of November 2025, over 100,000 talents have registered and 2,500 companies along with 250 municipalities have come on board.

Practical Entrepreneurship Support

The current era demands a shift towards practical, experience-based entrepreneurial support, which is a primary focus for Naoya Obayashi. He has served as an entrepreneurial mentor for initiatives in Tokyo and Osaka regions, including the Tokyo Startup Support Program and Plug and Play Japan. Through these activities, Another Works remains committed to its vision of maximizing opportunities for those willing to take on challenges, paving the way for new businesspersons and students eager to create the future.

Highlights from the Event

During his speech at the Oita Innovators Collage, Obayashi emphasized the importance of innovation and entrepreneurship in today’s rapidly changing economy. His presentation included discussions on how participants can leverage the skills and experiences gained from sideline projects to boost their primary careers.

Additionally, participants had the opportunity to present their ideas, leading to dynamic discussions facilitated by Obayashi, further underscoring the collaborative spirit fostered by the event.

Speaker Profile

Naoya Obayashi, the founder and CEO of Another Works, is a Waseda University graduate. After entering Pasona Group as a fresh graduate, he ventured into new business development at Visionar, a company focused on pioneering solutions. His efforts culminated in the creation of Another Works, which developed Japan's first comprehensive matching platform connecting individuals seeking side jobs with companies and municipalities.

Since inception, Another Works has contributed to the recruitment of over 2,500 companies and 250 municipalities, supporting a growing base of 100,000 side job seekers. He also serves as an entrepreneur mentor for several municipalities in Tokyo and beyond.

Company Background

Zynas Co., Ltd.

• - Founded: October 1, 2018
• - Location: 5F, Collegio Oita, 1-5-1 Kanike Minami, Oita, 870-0839
• - Website: zynas.co.jp

Another Works

Another Works is an IT venture that positions itself at the forefront of modern work culture through “side gigs.” Their flagship service focuses on creating a foundation for achieving multiple goals, including supplementary income, skills enhancement, career development, and personal satisfaction.

Their vision aims to maximize opportunities for everyone who dares to take on challenges, promoting an environment that encourages innovation without significant upheaval.

• - Founded: 2019
• - CEO: Naoya Obayashi
• - Location: 3F, Toranomon 40MT Building, 5-13-1 Toranomon, Minato, Tokyo 105-0001
• - Website: anotherworks.co.jp

Contact Information

For inquiries regarding invitations for speaker sessions with Naoya Obayashi, please contact Another Works via email at [email protected].