Exploring Collaborative Opportunities at the 'Furunoba Meet' Event in Tokyo

On July 10, 2025, a significant pre-event for the 'Furunoba' initiative took place at the Disaster Prevention Training Center in Chiyoda, Tokyo. Hosted by Agent, Inc., under the leadership of CEO Koji Shinomiya, this event focused on cultivating real connections and collaborations between local governments and businesses. It brought together 40 private organizations and representatives from 12 local governments across Japan, aiming to address pressing regional issues through dialogue and cooperation.

Background to the Event: Addressing Local Challenges Through Dialogue

Japan faces a multitude of local challenges, including an aging population, stagnant regional economies, and a shortage of workforce. These issues are increasingly complex and serious, pushing local governments to seek innovative solutions, often facilitated by private enterprises. However, there remains a gap in the connection between these entities, which stems from a lack of spaces for genuine, open conversations where needs and concerns can be shared candidly.

Recognizing this gap, Agent, Inc. conceived the 'Furunoba' platform—not merely a space for sales pitches but a venue for authentic dialogue. The term 'Furunoba' originates from the idea of hometown connections ('Furu') combined with the concepts of a nurturing space ('place'), growth ('nova'), and innovation, encapsulating the essence of this initiative. The goal is to foster mutual understanding through dialogue, ultimately leading to collaborative efforts in resolving local issues.

Insights from 'Furunoba'

Throughout our engagement with both local governments and businesses, we have observed a disconnect characterized by apprehensions on both sides. Local governments often feel anxious about appearing overly commercial, while businesses frequently struggle to identify clear issues that need addressing. The 'Furunoba' initiative seeks to bridge this divide, promoting a partnership model where both parties work together to comprehend and tackle community challenges.

As trust builds through these dialogues, businesses are likely to become more committed to contributing positively to the community. This commitment will, in turn, encourage wider participation in initiatives like Japan's corporate hometown tax program.

The Event Overview

Event Details

- Date: July 10, 2025
- Time: 13:30 - 17:30
- Participating Local Governments: Miyazaki City, Ibaraki Prefecture, Utsunomiya City, Tochigi Prefecture, Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture, Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture, Namerikawa City, Toyama Prefecture, Fukui Prefecture, Yamanashi Prefecture, Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture, Kyotanogo City, Kyoto Prefecture, Sakai City, Osaka Prefecture, Izumisano City, Osaka Prefecture, and Miyazaki City, with a total of 12 local governments represented.
- Venue: Disaster Prevention Training Center, Chiyoda, Tokyo
- Number of Participating Organizations: 40 (including corporations and general incorporated associations)

Program Structure

The day began with an opening talk from Hayashi Nakanaguchi of Agent, Inc., setting the tone for the event. This was followed by government seminars highlighting public-private partnership initiatives and a cross-session discussing corporate hometown tax initiatives.

During the networking hours, representatives from local governments established booths, inviting businesses to engage in meaningful discussions. This structure encouraged spontaneous exchanges, leading to impactful outcomes, such as ideas for future appointments and even proposals for demonstration projects.

Participant Feedback

Post-event surveys revealed that over 80% of attendees expressed satisfaction, with many highlighting the unique experience of hearing firsthand insights from local officials. Businesses commented on the unexpected enthusiasm displayed by local representatives and appreciated the relaxed atmosphere conducive to open dialogue. Similarly, local governments relished the opportunity to communicate without the pressure of typical sales interactions, opening avenues to collaborate on tailored proposals.

Closing Thoughts from the Organizer

Fumito Maezono, the project leader at Agent, Inc., emphasized gratitude to all participants for their contributions to this pioneering step toward communal advancement. He encouraged ongoing engagement among businesses and local governments, inviting them to share ideas or challenges they face.

Looking Ahead

The 'Furunoba' initiative plans to continue fostering connections through both in-person and online platforms, acting as a supportive resource for local government business ventures. The next event is slated for fall 2025, with further details to be released on the official 'Furunoba' website.

Agent, Inc. is dedicated to transforming societal challenges into opportunities for innovation and collaboration, striving for a future where everyone can thrive in a harmonious community.