#Japan #Tokyo #ESG Management #FORVAL #Hokuriku Bank

Forval and Hokuriku Bank's Strategic Partnership for SMEs

Introduction

In a significant move to empower small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Japan, Forval Co., Ltd. has entered into a business matching agreement with Hokuriku Bank. The partnership aims to support digital transformation (DX) efforts in local businesses, particularly in the Hokuriku region, where economic challenges are pressing.

The Rationale Behind the Partnership

Today, SMEs face an evolving landscape marked by rapid digitalization. This shift impacts customer preferences and overall market dynamics. In the Hokuriku region, specific structural challenges - such as declining birth rates, an aging demographic, and stagnant local economies - necessitate urgent action for enhancing competitiveness and sustainability of regional enterprises.

To address these challenges, Forval and Hokuriku Bank's collaboration seeks to leverage Forval's expertise in digital transformation and unique tools to empower local businesses. The initiative aligns with Forval's ‘F-Japan’ concept, which focuses on visible ESG management and supportive frameworks aimed at revitalizing local economies and enhancing corporate value.

For more details on the ‘F-Japan’ initiative, please visit: Forval's F-Japan Concept

Key Elements of Support

Under the new partnership, Hokuriku Bank will gather insights from its business clients regarding their DX needs, which Forval will address by providing tailored support strategies. This collaboration leverages the strengths of both organizations to accelerate solutions for local enterprises.

Forval's Support Framework

1. DX Assessment: Providing insights into DX status and initiating diagnostic evaluations with businesses.
2. Visualization and Problem Identification: Completing analyses and extracting critical issues faced by SMEs.
3. Ongoing Support: Engaging in continuous support based on identified challenges.

Forval implements a step-by-step approach within its supportive services, including preparation and operational support phases, enabling real-time progress management. The aim is to provide solutions that cater specifically to the challenges encountered by each business.

About Forval Co., Ltd.

Forval serves as a pioneering consultancy, known as a “Corporate Doctor,” focusing on ESG management visibility and support. Established in 1980 and headquartered in Shibuya, Tokyo, Forval specializes in guiding small and medium enterprises through various fields, including information and communication, overseas expansion, environmental management, human resources, and business succession.

In alignment with the government's four key initiatives - green, digital, vibrant regional development, and countermeasures against declining birth rates - Forval cultivates DX and GX talent nationwide. This initiative fosters a positive cycle of economic revitalization through collaborative efforts with local governments, private sectors, educational institutions, and financial entities as part of the ‘F-Japan’ vision.

Company Overview

• - Name: Forval Co., Ltd.
• - President: Matsunori Nakajima
• - Established: September 18, 1980
• - Location: 14th Floor, Aoyama Oval Building, 5-52-2 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo
• - Capital: 4.15 billion yen
• - Stock Code: 8275

For more information about Forval and its services, visit their official website.