KIBOW Social Investment Fund Expands Investment in Innovative Mental Health Services for Children

Transforming Children's Mental Health Care in Japan

In an encouraging move for children's mental health care in Japan, KIBOW, a prominent social investment fund, has announced it is increasing its investment in the Kakemichi Project, which operates the first specialized children's psychiatric home-visit nursing station, Nannaru. This initiative aims to strengthen support for children in need of mental health services amid increasing challenges faced by the youth in Japan.

The Growing Need for Mental Health Services

Japan is witnessing a troubling rise in mental health issues among children. Recently reported statistics indicate that around 350,000 elementary and middle school students are now refusing to attend school, marking a record high and continuous rise over the past twelve years. Additionally, concerns about bullying and youth suicide are escalating, pressing the need for innovative solutions in mental health care. Despite the growing demand, there are only approximately 750 child psychiatrists available in the country, causing significant delays in access to care, with initial hospital appointments often taking over three months to secure.

Nannaru: A Pioneering Solution

In response to the urgent need, Kakemichi Project has established Nannaru, Japan's first children's psychiatric home-visit nursing station, founded by specialized child psychiatrists. The service emphasizes individualized care; trained nurses visit children at their homes, providing tailored support that takes into account their unique characteristics and family environments. Each visit lasts over 30 minutes, delivering comprehensive care where it is needed most.

Objectives Behind the New Investment

KIBOW, based in Tokyo, has decided to increase its investment in Kakemichi Project, following its initial funding of JPY 30 million in October 2023. This decision stems from the project's proven impact and effective outcomes in child mental health:

1. Expanding Social Impact:
Since the first investment, the utilization of Nannaru's services has surged significantly, with notable improvements in mental health indicators among users. The project's reach extends beyond the children to their families, helping prevent job loss for parents, contributing positively to the community.

2. Strengthening Business Foundations:
Monthly sales at Kakemichi Project have reportedly doubled since the initial investment. To further accelerate growth, KIBOW intends to support strategic planning and operational management focusing on expanding Nannaru's home-visit services.

KIBOW aims to leverage its experience and knowledge in healthcare, welfare, and education sectors to broaden support networks, ensuring optimal aid reaches more children and families in need.

Background and Future Aspirations of Kakemichi Project

Founded on December 28, 2020, by CEO Takuya Oka, the Kakemichi Project is committed to enhancing mental health support for children. With its headquarters located in Suginami, Tokyo, the organization remains dedicated to improving the quality of life for children and their families within the community. Takuya Oka expressed his gratitude for the increased funding, emphasizing the importance of community support and highlighting ongoing challenges faced by families.

In his interview, he stated, "This additional investment reassures us that our direction and efforts are recognized. We continuously strive to deliver necessary support to families facing complex difficulties."

Accompanying Oka in leading the Kakemichi Project is Akira Mori, an external director, who commended the management's commitment to their mission. He pointed out that the leadership's ability to adapt and integrate external feedback has been pivotal in operational success.

KIBOW's Broader Mission

KIBOW's initiative, which began shortly after the Great East Japan Earthquake, aims to support social entrepreneurs across the nation, focusing primarily on broader social impact investment strategies. As part of its mission, KIBOW provides various forms of support, including funding, creating collaborative spaces, and operational assistance to help scale businesses driven by a social purpose.

This latest investment in Kakemichi Project not only reflects KIBOW's belief in the potential of innovative mental health services but underscores a growing recognition of the pressing need for children's mental health support in Japan. With anticipated improvements ahead, KIBOW and Kakemichi Project are poised to make lasting changes in the landscape of psychiatric care for children in the country.

For more information about KIBOW and its initiatives, visit KIBOW Project.