Forval Wins Contract for Small Business DX Support in Shizuoka City

Forval Inc., a company recognized for its commitment to supporting companies through visible ESG management, has recently been awarded the "2023 Small Business DX Support Project" by Shizuoka City under the leadership of Mayor Takashi Nanba. This initiative embodies Forval's philosophy of creating a new world through "new norms."

Background and Purpose of the Project

The primary goal of this project is to tackle ongoing challenges that small businesses in Shizuoka City face, including labor shortages, budget constraints, reliance on specific personnel, and limited IT literacy. Instead of merely introducing digital tools, Forval aims to provide ongoing support that fosters corporate transformation.

In recent years, the rapidly changing economic landscape and climate change have contributed to an environment of uncertainty for businesses. Particularly for small enterprises, traditional management approaches have become unsustainable, making it urgent to leverage digital technologies for business and management transformation.

Forval has developed a history of collaborating with municipalities across the nation to implement numerous support initiatives for digital transformation (DX). In Shizuoka Prefecture, they have contributed to local firms' operational improvements and IT utilization support through programs such as those in Fukuroi City and the dispatch of digital professionals to Matsuzaki Town.

Within this new project, Forval will conduct assessments and review decision-making processes to identify immediate challenges while working closely with business leaders to prioritize changes and engage their organizations. This approach focuses on cultivating awareness for transformation and realizing self-sustained DX.

Implementation Plan

This support program will involve the following components:
1. Overall Management Operations: Coordinating activities and ensuring the smooth progress of the project.
2. Seminars: Hosting educational sessions to enhance understanding of digital tools and management strategies.
3. Criteria for Participating Businesses: Selecting around ten enterprises for participation based on specific criteria.
4. Growth Support Program: Implementing hands-on growth support training tailored to the selected businesses.
5. Equipment Support: Assisting selected businesses in acquiring necessary equipment and applying for financial subsidies.
6. Case Studies Collection: Compiling successful cases to share best practices among participants.
7. Reporting: Preparing comprehensive reports on the project outcomes and insights gained.

Comments from Shizuoka City Economic Bureau

Officials from the Economic Bureau of Shizuoka City have emphasized that local small businesses are currently facing significant management issues, including persistent labor shortages. They noted that in the previous year's project, businesses that adopted digital technologies achieved remarkable results in streamlining operations and enhancing competitiveness.

With Forval as a new partner, the city plans to increase outreach to businesses, reinforcing efforts to encourage their self-sufficiency through continued support. The city anticipates that this initiative will pave the way for businesses to explore new strategies, ultimately invigorating the economy of Shizuoka City.

About Forval Inc.

Founded in 1980, Forval is an innovative consulting firm dedicated to visible ESG management support. With a capital of 4.105 billion yen and stock code 8275, Forval specializes in five primary areas for small and medium-sized businesses: Information Communication, International Trade, Environmental Management, Human Resources & Education, and Business Succession.

In alignment with the government's four driving forces—green initiatives, digitalization, local vitality enhancing, and addressing declining birth rates—Forval collaborates with municipalities, private enterprises, educational institutions, and financial institutions to cultivate talent for DX and GX (Green Transformation) across Japan. This cooperative model aims to create a sustainable cycle of local economic revitalization, ultimately advancing the 'F-Japan' initiative.

To learn more about Forval's offerings and initiatives, please visit their official website.