Kuradashi Challenge: A Unique Internship Opportunity for Students
Kuradashi, the company operating the social good market "Kuradashi", has announced the recruitment of students for its social contribution internship program, known as the Kuradashi Challenge. This exciting initiative is set to take place from August 3 to August 10, 2026, in Kikai, Kagoshima. Participants will engage in various activities, including mango harvesting, discussions with local businesses and municipalities, and sightseeing in the area.
About the Kuradashi Challenge
The primary mission of Kuradashi is to turn various social issues into substantial value through impactful business practices. The company aims to create a brighter future by addressing these challenges while fostering local economies and engaging students in meaningful experiences.
The Kuradashi Challenge, often referred to as "Kurachare", invites students interested in social issues like food loss and regional revitalization to participate as interns in different localities across Japan. This program not only supports local farmers in harvesting crops but also encourages cultural exchange and dialogue between students and the communities they visit.
In line with Kuradashi’s vision to become a leading impact enterprise group in Japan, this internship serves multiple purposes. It aims to cultivate relationships between regions and students, enhance the locals' visibility, and provide practical learning opportunities for participants. Notably, the fund established by Kuradashi covers all travel expenses, stay costs, and meal fees for selected interns, making this a financially accessible learning experience.
Since the start of the program, 65 such events have already been successfully conducted, and further iterations are planned across six locations in Japan beginning in June 2026. The aim is to expand student engagement in rural areas and catalyze local economic growth through direct interaction with agricultural practices.
Details of the Internship
The upcoming Kuradashi Challenge in Kikai Town will consist of the following:
- - Dates: August 3-10, 2026 (8 days, 7 nights)
- - Location: Kikai, Kagoshima
- - Participants: 4 college or graduate students
- - Activities: Mango harvesting, sorting, processing, discussions, and local sightseeing
- - Eligibility: Applicants must be current undergraduate or graduate students and should be able to attend for the full duration of the internship.
In the event of a natural disaster or other unforeseen circumstances, the program may be canceled or postponed. Additionally, a selection process will be conducted if there are more applicants than available spots.
Applications can be submitted directly through the provided link, with the deadline set for July 5, 2026, at 23:59.
For more information or to apply, please visit:
Application Link
The Impact of Kuradashi
Established in July 2014 and based in Shinagawa, Tokyo, Kuradashi aims to alleviate food loss and promote sustainability through its social good market initiatives. The company focuses on selling food items that are still safe for consumption but face barriers in traditional retail channels, enhancing their accessibility while contributing to various social initiatives, including environmental protection and disaster relief.
Moreover, it operates the Kuradashi Fund, aimed at supporting local revitalization projects, food bank operations, and educational activities that promote sustainability in food research.
The Kuradashi Challenge is just one of the many initiatives under Kuradashi's mission to create positive change through engaging and innovative business practices, turning social good into profitable ventures.
To explore more about Kuradashi and their initiatives, visit their official site:
Kuradashi Official Website