#Japan #SME support #Shibuya, Tokyo #FORVAL #OJT Program

Forval Takes on the SME Support Agency OJT Initiative

In a significant step to bolster support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), Forval Co., Ltd. has been entrusted with the “Support Agency OJT Support Program” spearheaded by the Organization for Small & Medium Enterprises and Regional Innovation (SME Agency) for this fiscal year. This initiative aims to provide practical training programs using support tools offered by the SME Agency, facilitated by Forval’s corporate doctors and various experts in the field.

Focus on Enhancing Support Capabilities

Amidst rapidly evolving social and economic landscapes, SMEs are confronted with multifaceted challenges such as labor shortages, digital transformation (DX), and pricing strategies. Equally, the organizations that support these businesses grappling with similar issues, including staffing shortages and gaps in knowledge and experience.

To address this, Forval will conduct a series of online OJT training sessions. These workshops will be led by experienced corporate doctors from Forval, who will share hands-on expertise in effective support strategies through the use of the SME Agency’s tools. Topics covered will include methods for understanding management challenges, developing action plans, managing pricing and profit margins, and improving productivity.

The target audience for these sessions includes staff members from various organizations, such as prefectural chambers of commerce and industry, SME associations, financial institutions, and other designated support organizations across Japan.

Webinar Details

• - Theme: Topics include management challenge assessment, securing appropriate profit margins, productivity enhancements, market expansion, promoting IT and DX, and climate neutrality initiatives.
• - Number of Sessions: 6 online webinars (approximately 2.5 hours each).
• - Schedule: Sessions are scheduled to take place on:

- September 18, 2026
- October 15, 2026
- November 13, 2026
- December 16, 2026
- January 19, 2027
- February 17, 2027

For further details, participants can visit the official SME Agency page dedicated to the OJT Support Program.

Upcoming Sessions

The first session—titled “Drawing Out True Opinions and Envisioning the Future: Practical Know-How for Extracting Management Issues and Accompanying Support”—is set for September 18, 2026.

First Session Overview

• - Date: September 18, 2026 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM
• - Focus: Extracting and defining management issues, effective listening and dialogue, and creating action plans.
• - Instructors:

- Miki Nagato, CEO of Prossimo Consulting
- Takanori Kawano, Director of Heurit Management Research Institute (NPO)

• - Goals: Understanding the overall process of support, enhancing listening and dialogue with executives, organizing challenges, and formulating support strategies through the use of support tools.

The session will incorporate role-playing elements for practical learning, focusing on effective support scenarios and the application of AI tools in these contexts. Participants will also learn how to utilize support tools like “Kidzuku-kun” and local benchmarks to ensure effective dialogues.

About Forval Co., Ltd.

Established in September 1980 and publicly traded (TSE Standard: 8275), Forval specializes in providing consulting services for SMEs, emphasizing their