#Japan #Sports Tourism #Shizuoka #The Small Things #Shizuoka Sports

The Small Things: Revolutionizing Sports in Shizuoka

In a significant move, The Small Things, a sports co-creation consulting firm based in Minato, Tokyo, has been awarded a project by Shizuoka Prefecture to assist in developing a business plan aimed at the external corporate establishment of the Sports Commission Shizuoka. This recognition comes as a result of the company's expertise in supporting sports commission operations.

Background

The Sports Commission Shizuoka operates under the Shizuoka Prefectural Sports Bureau, collaborating with various sports facilities, sports associations, and accommodation providers throughout the prefecture. Known for its temperate climate, Shizuoka is an ideal location for a myriad of sports throughout the year, boasting numerous training facilities suitable for athletic camps. This unique landscape positions the prefecture with high potential for promoting sports tourism.

In light of leveraging these strengths, Shizuoka Prefecture has proactively been advancing strategies aimed at enlarging its exchange population through sports, consequently invigorating the local economy. Plans to enhance the organizational structure of the Sports Commission Shizuoka to consider external corporate establishment (legal incorporation) are underway.

With the initiation of the second phase of the promotion strategy starting in 2026, the focus will shift towards inviting competitions through public-private partnerships and exploring new ventures that transcend traditional sports commission models. This is a plan designed to further encourage the expansion of the exchange population and the revitalization of the local economy. Throughout this process, The Small Things will facilitate the development of a business plan that supports the self-sustaining and continuous contributions of the Sports Commission Shizuoka to the region.

Scope of Work

• - Client: Shizuoka Prefecture
• - Project Title: Business Plan Development Support for External Corporate Establishment of Sports Commission Shizuoka
• - Key Activities: Attracting sports events/camps, promoting sports tourism, support for incorporation, designing financial models, and aiding in organizational restructuring.

The Strengths of The Small Things

What sets The Small Things apart in Japan’s consulting landscape is its unique approach to 'sports co-creation.' The firm has been instrumental in establishing platforms for dialogue among diverse stakeholders, including local governments, businesses, and nonprofits. Its expertise in project management and executing initiatives has led to significant successes. Particularly noteworthy is the firm’s capability to serve as a 'hub' that connects various entities, acting as a 'community designer' specifically tailored to the sports sector, ensuring collaborative projects advance smoothly.

Leveraging this specialized knowledge in supporting sports commissions, The Small Things aims to craft a robust and actionable strategy for the sustainable growth of the Sports Commission Shizuoka, ensuring it can effectively tackle regional challenges and support the development of the sports industry.

Future Outlook

With this new project in Shizuoka, The Small Things is committed to expanding its involvement in supporting the management and operations of sports commissions nationwide. As various regions look to sports commissions as key players in enhancing local vitality through sports tourism, the firm plans to utilize its accumulated know-how to provide tailored support services that meet individual regional needs.

Through its 'sports x co-creation' strategy, The Small Things seeks to facilitate the growth of sports commissions and help extend local revitalization efforts across Japan fueled by sports involvement.

About The Small Things

The Small Things derives its name from the song “small things” by the experimental soul band WONK. The firm champions the idea that redefining traditional models and embracing small actions can indeed alter the world, emphasizing dialogue and experimental approaches in all endeavors. Collaborating with regions, fans, and sponsors, it explores innovative sports experiences, enhances fan communication, and develops collaborative regional projects. "We talk slow Tomorrow, how would it be?" embodies the spirit of The Small Things as it fosters new value in sports, starting from small steps.