Introducing a New Co-Creation Program for Family Businesses

A New Beginning for Family Businesses

In an ever-changing business environment, family businesses often face a dilemma: should they strive for independent growth or consider selling through mergers and acquisitions (M&A)? This choice can feel like a lose-lose situation, where valuable company culture and family legacy may be compromised. In response to this challenge, Media Incubate Co., Ltd. has introduced the "Family Business Co-Creation Program," integrating the capabilities of JV Impact Partners, AIBizImpact, and M&A Buy-Side Partners to provide a third option that balances preservation with growth.

The Essence of Family Business

Family businesses in Japan are unique treasures, often founded on stories, values, family ties, and deep local connections. These elements are irreplaceable assets that successful entrepreneurs cherish. Many business owners express a desire to maintain their operational integrity, protect their employees, and sustain community relationships as they innovate.
While this aspiration is commendable, it often becomes overshadowed by concerns about adapting to market changes. This is where the new program comes in—offering an opportunity for family businesses to innovate while safeguarding what matters.

Embracing Joint Ventures

The concept of joint ventures (JV) serves as an excellent alternative to traditional M&A, allowing family businesses to collaborate with external partners to create new entities that leverage mutual strengths. This enables family businesses to explore new ventures and adapt to digitalization and international expansion while continuing to operate in their core domains. The beauty of JV lies in its flexibility; should circumstances change, the core business remains relatively insulated from any failures in the venture.

Steps to Success

The program commences with a three-step approach:

- Step 1: JV Asset Mapping: Here, businesses clarify their core values, identify valuable assets, and define the areas they wish to explore.
- Step 2: AIBizImpact: Tailored AI support is provided, minimizing disruption while addressing employee concerns through thorough training and implementation plans.
- Step 3: JV Impact Partners: Businesses are matched with partners who share their values, facilitating collaboration built on trust.

Variety of Potential Collaborations

The co-creation program allows for various collaboration models:

- Traditional Firms + Tech Companies: Digitizing traditional practices and establishing online platforms.
- Local Firms + Local Firms: Joint projects addressing shared challenges, enhancing scale and resource utilization.
- Manufacturers + Service Providers: Developing new service-oriented business models.
- Current Owners + Successors: Facilitating hands-on successor training through strategic partnerships.

An Open Call to Family Businesses

The program is open to all family businesses, regardless of their size, industry, or how long they have been established. Businesses that commit to family values and wish to protect their legacy are encouraged to participate.

Leadership Insight

Masaki Hamasaki, CEO of Media Incubate, emphasizes, “True happiness for family businesses lies not in maximizing profit but in nurturing the happiness of family, employees, and the community. Our JV approach is the ‘third option’ that allows preservation while realizing essential transformations.” His commitment to creating a legacy for the next generation resonates deeply with family business owners, ensuring continuity and relevance in a modern context.

How to Get Involved

Initial consultations are offered at no charge. There’s no need to travel to Tokyo; our team can meet with you in person or online to discuss your aspirations for your family business. Share your concerns and future visions with us—we’re here to listen.