IBJ's Seminar in Akita: Addressing Marriage Support Through Public-Private Collaboration

IBJ's Commitment to Strengthening Marriage Support Initiatives in Akita

On June 5, 2026, IBJ Inc., a leading company in Japan dedicated to marriage support, organized a seminar in Akita aimed at enhancing marriage initiatives in response to the pressing issue of declining marriage rates. The seminar, held at the Akita Prefectural Municipal Association Hall, was attended by local officiants such as volunteers, municipal marriage support representatives, and staff from the Akita Marriage Support Center. This event was a direct outcome of the collaboration agreement signed with Akita Prefecture on April 24, 2026, focusing on effective strategies to increase marriage support in the region.

Overview of the Seminar

The seminar consisted of two main parts: a lecture and a discussion session. The distinguished speakers included Shigeru Ishizaka, Chairman and CEO of IBJ, and Hiroki Mori, Executive Officer overseeing Regional Development Projects at IBJ.

During the lecture, Ishizaka and Mori shared insights on the current challenges faced by the marriage support market, particularly in light of Japan's declining birthrate. They discussed vital strategies and support methods necessary to promote marriage among couples in Akita. The subsequent discussion session allowed participants to engage with practical queries and advice, fostering networking among local support professionals and community members.

Seminar Logistics

- Date: June 5, 2026 (Friday), 12:45 PM - 3:30 PM
- Location: Akita Prefectural Municipal Association Hall
- Agenda:

1. Lecture by IBJ Executives
2. Discussion Session

Key Focus Areas

- Part One: The Marriage Support Environment in Akita (Speaker: Hiroki Mori, IBJ)
- Part Two: Building Foundations for Successful Marriages (Speaker: Shigeru Ishizaka, IBJ)

Participant Feedback

Following the seminar, attendees expressed positive feedback, with some stating that "it is crucial to empower marriage seekers to take initiative in their journeys." Requests for further information regarding the marriage counselor certification introduced during the seminar showed a keen interest in effective marriage support initiatives.

About the Marriage Counselor Certification

For more details regarding the marriage counselor certification course, visit: Marriage Counselor Certification

Perspectives from IBJ

Hiroki Mori commented on the seminar, stating that IBJ aims to exceed 20,000 marriages by 2025, leveraging its extensive data and expertise in the marriage sector as part of its broader approach to tackling the declining birthrate. Since 2024, the company has actively engaged in regional revitalization efforts, implementing marriage support initiatives across Japan in collaboration with various municipalities.

Given the rapid population decline in Akita, the continuous decrease in marriages has emerged as a critical challenge. Mori emphasized the necessity of formulating effective marriage support strategies within local governments to create a more conducive environment for those wishing to marry. IBJ is dedicated to utilizing its specialized knowledge and proven methodologies to contribute to marriage support in Akita and to build a sustainable local community.

Public-Private Collaboration for Social Impact

In its mission, IBJ has signed cooperation agreements with Okayama Prefecture in August 2025, Yamanashi Prefecture in December 2025, and Akita Prefecture in April 2026. The company is actively pursuing the cultivation of marriage-friendly environments and support measures, focusing on enhancing regional demand and revitalization centered around marriage.

For inquiries regarding the event, please contact:

- Department of Regional Development, Akano
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: 070-3280-5207

About IBJ

As a leading marriage consulting organization, IBJ has created the highest number of successful engagements in Japan, combining dedicated human support with innovative IT solutions. The company has expanded its business scope from simply matchmaking to holistic life design support, focusing on achieving not only marriages but also fulfilling lives thereafter. With a mission rooted in fostering happiness through connections, IBJ aims to address Japan's significant demographic challenges by facilitating a cycle of happiness starting from marriage.