Red Horse Corporation Partners with Sakahogi Town for Regional Revitalization Initiative

On September 22, Red Horse Corporation, based in Sumida, Tokyo, entered into a groundbreaking agreement with Sakahogi Town in Gifu Prefecture, facilitated by the Regional Revitalization Business Personnel program. This initiative allows for the dispatch of regional revitalization personnel starting on October 1, engaging for a period of up to three years.

What is the Regional Revitalization Personnel Program?

The program is a government-supported initiative whereby local public entities accept employees from private companies located in major metropolitan areas. These employees leverage their expertise to engage in activities aimed at enhancing unique local attractions and values. This effort is backed by special grant-in-aid measures introduced by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications.

Since adopting this system in 2021, previously known as the 'Regional Revitalization Enterprise Person' program, Red Horse Corporation has successfully dispatched its employees to local government bodies to bolster regional development initiatives.

Agreement Duration

The officially agreed period extends from October 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026, with an option for renewal on an annual basis. However, the total dispatched period will be capped at three years.

Areas of Focus

The personnel dispatched to Sakahogi Town will focus on:
1. Enhancing the town's external communication capabilities.
2. Developing local specialties and expanding sales channels.
3. Supporting local businesses and organizations to stimulate community revitalization.

Insight from Regional Revitalization Personnel

Mayo Nohara from Red Horse Corporation expressed her honor at being involved with Sakahogi Town as a regional revitalization business personnel. Drawing from her extensive experience in the private sector, she aims to promote the town's attractions widely and support the development of local products and expansion of sales channels. Being from the neighboring Kakamigahara City, she feels a strong connection to Sakahogi Town and has a deep-rooted affection for the area. Throughout her service, she plans to contribute to establishing mechanisms that will allow the town to thrive independently in the future.

History of the Cooperation

Red Horse Corporation has been supporting various municipalities with their hometown tax projects. Recently, they decided to expand their efforts to include broader regional revitalization initiatives. Learning about Sakahogi Town's need for professionals capable of developing local specialties under the government-supported program, they initiated contact in May. After months of discussions and negotiations, the agreement for personnel dispatch was confirmed.

Comments from Kenetsu Yamada

Kenetsu Yamada, COO of Red Horse Corporation, noted that since 2014, the company has been engaged in supporting local revitalization through its hometown tax initiative. Increasingly, they believe it is critical for regions to develop self-sustaining economic powers rather than relying solely on subsidies. Emphasizing the importance of direct-to-consumer e-commerce, specialty product development, and tourism support, Yamada sees this partnership with Sakahogi as an excellent opportunity to implement sustainable initiatives using local resources. He is committed to growing with Sakahogi Town while recognizing that such efforts can also foster growth within Red Horse Corporation itself.

About Sakahogi Town

Sakahogi Town is located in the central southern part of Gifu Prefecture, covering an area of 12.87 square kilometers and housing approximately 8,200 residents. The Kiso River flows through the southern part, while the central region is dominated by the Goubu Mountain Range, surrounded by expansive lowlands. Various industries flourish here, from traditional Japanese tile manufacturing to more contemporary enterprises nourished by both nature and human effort. The town mayor is Takahiro Ito, and more information can be found at Sakahogi Town's official website.

About Red Horse Corporation

Founded in March 1964, Red Horse Corporation's head office is located in Tokyo's Sumida Ward at KOKUGIKAN FRONT BUILDING. The company is focused on supporting regional industries and revitalization efforts alongside consumer business initiatives. For more details, visit their official site.