UPDATER Launches New Initiative to Reward Corporate Actions with 'Virtuous Points'

On October 15, 2023, UPDATER, a company based in Setagaya, Tokyo, announced a significant transformation of its business-oriented platform, "Minna SX for Biz." This platform is specifically designed to assist companies in promoting sustainability. By connecting businesses engaged in resolving social issues, reducing environmental impact, and enhancing workplace conditions, it provides opportunities for collaboration and learning.

Background of the New Initiative

In recent years, there has been a surge in interest surrounding the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and corporate sustainability initiatives. However, this has also led to a phenomenon termed “sustainability fatigue,” where approximately 60% of people in recent surveys have reported feeling an overwhelming sense of boredom or exhaustion with corporate messaging surrounding SDGs.

Promoting positive corporate behavior is vital for shaping the future; however, valuable actions often go unrecognized due to their intangible nature and lack of proper evaluation within organizations. This lack of acknowledgment can lead to diminishing motivation among companies and a struggle to maintain these initiatives.

To combat this situation, UPDATER has introduced a system to visualize proactive behaviors through “Virtuous Points.” This framework allows companies to accumulate value from their efforts, ensuring that good actions are recognized and can translate into tangible benefits for all.

Overview of the New System

The revamped platform, "Minna SX for Biz," now incorporates a system to evaluate corporate actions through the lens of “Virtuous Points.” These points are not spent but are accumulated to determine a “Virtuous Biz Rank,” ranging from D to VIP, along with corresponding benefits.

How to Earn Virtuous Points

- Using Minna Electricity:

- Continuous usage: 300 points/month.
- RE100 plan users receive an additional 50 points/month.
- Corporate PPA contracts receive an additional 100 points/month.

- Renewable Energy Supply to Minna Electricity:

- Being listed on the 'Visible Power Plants' page: 300 points/month.

- Opening a Store on the EC Service TADORi:

- Contract signing: 300 points/month.

Virtuous Biz Rank Standards Based on Accumulated Points

- SS Rank: 200,000 points and above
- S Rank: 100,000 - 199,999 points
- A Rank: 50,000 - 99,999 points
- B Rank: 30,000 - 49,999 points
- C Rank: 10,000 - 29,999 points
- D Rank: 1 - 9,999 points

Note: Ranks are subject to change, and participating companies receive retroactive points at the time of contract signing.

Main Benefits by Virtuous Biz Rank

- VIP Rank: Companies can utilize a grace period of one month for electricity payment deadlines through the Electricity Bill Safety Program.
- B Rank and Above: Complimentary production of paid advertising space (feature articles) on "Minna SX for Biz."
- C Rank and Above: Free use of event space at "Minna Shoten" in Shimokitazawa.
- D Rank and Above: Three months of free fees to open a box shop within "Minna Shoten", as well as free installation of IoT sensors to monitor workplace temperature, humidity, and CO₂ levels, plus professional workplace environment consulting.

Future Prospects

Currently, the program for earning Virtuous Points is limited to a selection of UPDATER’s services, but there are plans to expand the scope within the next 1 to 2 years. This could include support for employee well-being initiatives and the utilization of renewable energy at local events, collaborating with other companies and municipal bodies.

Plans also exist to continually enhance incentive offerings, such as increased visibility for evaluative articles and co-hosted community events that elevate social value.

In the long run, UPDATER envisions a “Virtuous Ecosystem” wherein companies acknowledge one another's virtues and encourage collaboration based on action data.

About 'Minna SX for Biz'

The subscription-based platform, "Minna SX for Biz", was developed in response to the need for deeper understanding of sustainable practices from other companies and better matching with partner firms. Its motto, "Making Sustainability Easier," offers resources and connections beneficial for advancing sustainability initiatives and tackling related business challenges.

SX refers to Sustainability Transformation, the necessary business transformation to synchronize societal sustainability with corporate sustainability.

About UPDATER Inc.

On October 1, 2021, the company rebranded from Minna Denryoku Co., Ltd. UPDATER focuses on providing services emphasizing traceability and transparency for both corporations and individuals to address societal challenges. They have pioneered commercial power traceability through their decarbonization initiative “Minna Denryoku,” transformed the labor market via “Minna Works,” and assess brand ethics through “Shift C.” Their services span across a range of sustainable and ecological initiatives.