FORVAL Takes Charge of Namerikawa City's Small Business DX Support Projects

FORVAL, a consulting firm based in Shibuya, Tokyo, has recently been selected to manage two significant projects in Namerikawa City, Toyama Prefecture. The initiatives involve supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and nurturing female digital talents within the context of digital transformation (DX) and growth transformation (GX).

Background and Objectives

Namerikawa City houses numerous SMEs and sole proprietors, serving as the bedrock of the local economy. However, due to global economic fluctuations and rising costs associated with labor and utilities, the business environment has become increasingly challenging. The acceleration of DX and GX initiatives by larger corporations further emphasizes the necessity for similar transformation among SMEs. In addition, while Namerikawa has seen a continuous increase in its population, the outflow of young women in their early twenties poses a significant issue. Thus, there is a pressing need to create a working environment that is both attractive and sustainable for women.

In light of these challenges, FORVAL's mission through these projects is to enhance understanding of DX among local SMEs and to provide accompanying support through external experts known as DX advisors. The firm aims to cultivate a sustainable ecosystem where local human resources can support local businesses in the future. Additionally, the program will assist women residing in Namerikawa in acquiring the skills necessary for flexible work arrangements, such as remote work, thereby facilitating a balance between work and caregiving responsibilities. This initiative targets both economic independence for women and the reduction of the gender gap in the digital sector.

Details of the Projects

1. Small Business DX Support and Advisor Training

The first project focuses on promoting a positive cycle where local human resources support local SMEs. Key components of this initiative include:

- Establishment of a management structure to ensure smooth operation and overall management.
- Creation of a secretariat to address inquiries from the city and program participants.
- Submission of reports in electronic format detailing the outcomes of various tasks.
- Awareness-raising activities and accompanying support related to DX.
- Training programs for aspiring DX advisors.
- Collaboration with the women's digital talent development project.

2. Women’s Digital Talent Development

The second initiative aims to promote business reform through digitalization, thereby enhancing operational efficiency for local companies. Key components include:

- Development of implementation structures for training programs.
- Recruitment and selection of participants for training sessions.
- Execution of training programs tailored to meet the needs of local businesses.
- Employment support for program graduates.
- Measurement of program effectiveness.
- Reporting on project activities.
- Coordination with the DX support and advisor training initiative.

About FORVAL

Founded in 1980, FORVAL operates as a group of corporate doctors and next-generation management consultants focused on visualizing ESG management through supportive frameworks. With a capital of 4.1 billion yen and specializing in five areas—information and communication technology, overseas expansion, environmental management, human resources, and education, and business succession—FORVAL plays a crucial role in driving local economies through the cultivation of DX and GX talent in collaboration with governmental agencies, private sectors, and educational institutions.

The firm is committed to nurturing a sustainable cycle that revitalizes local economies, aligns with national objectives regarding green, digital, and demographic initiatives, and supports the visualization of ESG management. More information about their initiatives, including the Namerikawa Innovation Promotion Business, can be found on their website here.

Conclusion

Through these projects in Namerikawa City, FORVAL aims to contribute to the development of local industries and create an environment where diverse talents can thrive, ultimately fostering a vibrant community.