#Japan #Tokyo #Health Promotion #Sports Award Company #Sports in Life

Announcing the Final Call for Sports Award Company 2026 Applications

The Sports Agency in Japan is gearing up to close applications for the acclaimed "Sports Award Company 2026" program, aimed at recognizing organizations that actively engage in promoting health through sports for employees and university students. This commendable initiative, established in 2017, has continued to see impressive participation, with the last year's program, "Sports Award Company 2025", hitting a record high of 1,498 recognized organizations.

Expanding Focus to University Students

Starting from this year, the program opens its arms wider by allowing educational institutions, including universities, to apply not only for employee programs but also for initiatives directed towards enrolled students. This strategic expansion comes in light of concerns about the declining sports participation rate among the working-age population, which may be linked to a lack of athletic engagement during university years. By instilling healthy exercise and sports habits in students, the initiative aims to enhance the overall health consciousness of the workforce.

The Vision Behind the Program

The certification initiative is part of the broader "Sport in Life" project, which envisions a society where engaging in sports becomes a fundamental aspect of life for everyone. As health management gains increased attention, this program serves as an effective tool for enhancing the public image of companies and universities, alongside promoting an organizational culture that prioritizes health and wellness.

Key Details of the Sports Award Company 2026

• - Objective: Organizations actively supporting and promoting sports activities for employees and students are recognized as "Sports Award Companies". Their efforts are widely publicized to inspire other organizations, ultimately aiming to boost sports participation rates among business professionals and enhance public appreciation for those dedicated to health management.
• - Application Period: Submissions will be accepted from September 16, 2025, to November 14, 2025.

Certification Types and Incentives

Organizations can earn additional recognition through various tiers:

• - Plus Recognition: Given to companies with a sports participation rate of over 70% among employees actively engaging in sports at least once a week.
• - Bronze, Silver, Gold Certifications: Awarded based on consecutive years of recognition, with the following classifications:

- Bronze: 5-6 recognitions
- Silver: 7-9 recognitions
- Gold: 10 or more recognitions

Furthermore, companies meeting the Plus criteria will receive enhanced recognition, improving their visibility and commitment to health promotion.

Benefits for Recognized Companies

1. Logo Usage: Recognized companies are allowed to use the logo on job postings via Hello Work. Similar promotional activities have been noted on private job sites as well.
2. Media Promotion: The Sports Agency will publish the names of certified companies on their website and actively promote recognition information through various media outlets and social media channels. The information about recognized companies will also be accessible through “Coco Spo,” a platform created by the Sports Agency to provide valuable information that facilitates sports engagement in daily life.

For further details about the application process, visit the Sports Award Company application page and explore supportive initiatives on Coco Spo. Let’s join together in promoting a healthier future through sport!

Together, let’s create an environment where sports are an integral part of life and enhance wellness across our communities!