#Japan #Tokyo #Career Growth #Freelancing #HiPro Direct

HiPro Direct Celebrates Four Years of Connecting Freelancers

On July 29, 2026, HiPro Direct, a pioneering platform by Persol Career, will mark its fourth anniversary, having achieved an impressive milestone of over 4,800 successful matches between freelancers and companies. Since its launch in July 2022, the HiPro Direct service has experienced substantial growth in the freelance and gig economy, particularly in the utilization of freelancers by businesses, municipalities, startups, and university research spaces.

Evidence of Growth

According to recent statistics, the number of successful matches in the last year alone saw a remarkable increase of about 54% compared to the previous year. By June 2026, HiPro Direct had registered over 70,000 freelancers with diverse skills and experiences, ranging from marketing to business development and digital transformation. This expansion reflects not only the demand for freelance talent but also the platform's robust ability to connect employers with qualified professionals.

The Anniversary Event

To celebrate four successful years, HiPro Direct will host an event titled "Life x Career x Borderless – In the AI Era, Become an Individual Who Can Bring Value Beyond the Company" on July 29, 2026. This event is aimed at individuals looking to explore side jobs or expand their career possibilities. The keynote speaker for the event will be former professional soccer player Yuji Sota, who will discuss how cross-boundary experiences can enrich one's life choices. The event will also feature a panel discussion with Sota and experts in side jobs and career transitions, shedding light on the evolving landscape of work in the age of AI.

The Program and Participation

The hybrid format of the event allows for both in-person and online attendance. Scheduled for 18:00 to 21:00 JST at Persol Career's office in Aoyama, Tokyo, attendees can participate for free, with a limit of 40 onsite and 100 online participants. Individuals interested in attending must register by July 24, 2026, or until reaching capacity. The event will serve as a catalyst for participants to think about cross-border experiences as viable options for their careers, encouraging them to take small but significant steps towards their professional goals.

Services Offered by HiPro

HiPro Direct is more than just a matchmaking service; it encompasses a comprehensive suite of support for businesses seeking to tap into freelance talent. This includes specialized services like HiPro Biz for executive-level support, HiPro Tech for IT professionals, and HiPro Direct for freelance matchmaking. By providing these services, HiPro aims to empower individuals to find work that matches their skills while offering companies access to a broader talent pool, effectively contributing to a more diverse workforce.

About Persol Career

Founded on the mission to empower individuals in the workforce, Persol Career is dedicated to creating a society where work brings joy. With initiatives like the job placement service doda and the introduction of HiPro for supporting professional freelancers, the company reinforces its commitment to addressing social challenges and enhancing work opportunities for everyone. More details on their mission can be found on the Persol Career website.

As the gig economy continues to evolve, HiPro Direct’s commitment to facilitating meaningful connections will play a crucial role in shaping the future of work, helping individuals to effectively navigate their careers and achieve their professional aspirations.