SoilxPolicy Fund Advances Solutions for Social Challenges
In a significant move to tackle pressing social issues, the SoilxPolicy Fund has announced its third round of policy proposal initiatives, partnering with eight selected organizations. Organized by the Public Interest Incorporated Foundation Soil (located in Shibuya, Tokyo) in collaboration with PoliPoli, this initiative seeks to leverage the expertise of nonprofit organizations specializing in various social challenges.
What is the SoilxPolicy Fund?
The SoilxPolicy Fund aims to mobilize organizations with relevant expertise to provide policy proposals and recommendations. This project also involves PoliPoli, which provides support and consultation services to ensure effective policy advocacy.
This term, the SoilxPolicy Fund garnered applications from a total of 71 organizations, reflecting widespread interest and commitment to social change. To maintain impartiality, candidates underwent a rigorous selection process overseen by a panel of experts, which included document reviews, interviews, and presentations.
From these evaluations, eight organizations were chosen to engage in a year-long commission, which will run from April 2026 to March 2027. The selected groups will carry out various tasks based on their proposals, such as research, validation, and documentation. Upon completion of the commission, the findings and results will be published on Soil's official website and shared widely.
Introducing the Selected Organizations
1. Accept International
An NGO dedicated to supporting the social reintegration of youth involved with non-state armed groups in war-torn and conflict-affected regions. Their focus is on addressing overlooked issues and breaking cycles of hatred through peace and safety initiatives.
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URL:
accept-int.org
2. OPHIS
This nonprofit startup collaborates across sectors to create sustainable emergency transport systems in Japan, particularly in regions like Nago City, Okinawa. They aim to establish a model for emergency services that will launch a pioneering system in 2026.
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URL:
ophis-ems.org
3. Silent Voice
This organization works to eliminate communication barriers between the hearing-impaired and the hearing population, advocating for inclusive education and employment opportunities. Their programs include after-school services and online education aimed at deaf students.
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URL:
silentvoice.org
4. Pirika
Founded in 2011, Pirika harnesses technology to combat environmental issues, particularly the problem of plastic waste. Their community-driven initiatives, including their popular trash collection app, have led to over 400 million pieces of waste being picked up globally.
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URL:
corp.pirika.org
5. Afterschool NPO
Committed to creating enriching after-school environments for elementary students in Japan, this organization operates various programs that enhance children’s safety and experiences during nonschool hours.
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URL:
npoafterschool.org
6. Mobility for Humanity
This nonprofit focuses on integrating refugees into local workforces in Japan, particularly in rural areas facing demographic challenges. Their initiatives aim to create sustainable pathways for refugee acceptance and community involvement.
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URL:
mobilityforhumanity.jp
7. Code for Everyone
This organization strives for universal access to creative technology. They provide programming education, develop resources for teachers, and advocate for better integration of technology in public education.
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URL:
code.or.jp
8. UNIVA
This group seeks to build a 'Universal Innovation Ecosystem,' encouraging diversity and inclusion in educational settings by promoting collaborative innovations between schools, communities, and government.
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URL:
univa.or.jp
Future Plans and Support Expansion
The SoilxPolicy Fund is sustained through donations from individuals and entrepreneurs who support its mission. The Foundation appreciates all contributions, which go directly into grant-making, mentorship, and resources to foster nonprofit startups and empower future social entrepreneurs.
About Soil
The Public Interest Incorporated Foundation Soil was established on January 16, 2023. It primarily focuses on funding and supporting nonprofit startups that prioritize meaningful, albeit non-profit activities.
- - Headquarters: 203 Belacourt Shibuya, 7-3 Sakuragaokacho, Shibuya, Tokyo.
- - Website: soil-foundation.org
For inquiries about partnerships or to support nonprofit startups, please contact Soil at
[email protected].