#Japan #Tokyo #100BANCH #GARAGE Program #Eco-Friendly Sneakers

Innovative Projects at 100BANCH's GARAGE Program

In a bid to create a better tomorrow, 100BANCH has welcomed five groundbreaking projects in its 95th GARAGE Program session. Known as an experimental zone dedicated to enriching lives a century into the future, 100BANCH is committed to fostering innovative ideas with the younger generation.

The GARAGE Program serves as a nurturing ground for the altruistic endeavors of individuals under 35. These young leaders are offered a platform to explore unique projects aimed at shaping a sustainable future over a span of three months. Let’s delve into the remarkable undertakings of this latest cohort:

1. SOJINE

SOJINE aims to create a value beyond culinary uses for Japanese sesame seeds, which currently have a domestic utilization rate of under 0.1%. This initiative seeks to promote sesame as an ingredient in skincare, presenting its benefits to consumers while supporting local sesame farmers. The project not only highlights the historical importance of sesame in Japanese cuisine but also addresses the critical issue of self-sufficiency in food production. By reimagining sesame's application, SOJINE aims to energize local agriculture and celebrate this essential ingredient’s heritage. Read more here.

2. Kafka

This project, Kafka, targets the intersection of challenges and support systems within the evolving landscape of capitalism. It aspires to implement funding through a decentralized personal token marketplace. Utilizing blockchain technology, Kafka aims to connect emerging young innovators with potential backers through a comprehensive web application to facilitate funding opportunities. The goal is to cultivate a robust ecosystem for fresh ideas and endeavors. Discover more about Kafka.

3. Re:Spect

Re:Spect is dedicated to addressing the dual challenges faced by traditional dyeing industries and wildlife-related agricultural damages. As wildlife increases, causing severe damage to crops, and traditional dyeing techniques are at risk of vanishing, this project proposes utilizing resources like deer leather from controlled culls to create a sustainable circular sneaker brand. By combining traditional dyeing craftsmanship with new, eco-friendly practices, Re:Spect aims to establish a solution that is economically viable and culturally enriching while promoting environmental sustainability. Learn more about Re:Spect.

4. CoMa

The CoMa project is set to explore the intricacies of emotional experiences during football matches. By analyzing the emotional outbursts triggered by audiovisual stimuli on a millisecond basis, CoMa aims to deconstruct the excitement of watching football. The insights derived from this analysis could potentially revolutionize experience design within the entertainment industry, paving the way for elevated audience engagement and innovative storytelling techniques. See what CoMa is all about.

5. Matunomirai

Matunomirai seeks to transform discarded pine needles into a valuable resource. Currently, these byproducts are often incinerated, leading to environmental waste. The project proposes a circular economy model that repurposes pine needles into products such as natural deodorants, agricultural pellets, and biofuels. Additionally, the initiative incorporates job opportunities for people with disabilities in its production processes, creating a holistic model that connects environmental, welfare, and economic needs while fostering sustainable practices that honor local nature. Explore Matunomirai.

As part of its ongoing mission, 100BANCH continues to accept entries for future projects. The deadline for applications for projects starting in August is June 23. Find out more about the application process.

About 100BANCH

Founded on July 7, 2017, 100BANCH operates with the vision of being an experimental zone dedicated to nurturing youthful energy to enrich the world a century from now. Established by Panasonic during its centennial celebration, 100BANCH offers a space for ambitious young individuals to conduct experiments aimed at shaping the future. With guidance from experienced mentors and a commitment to providing more than 100 events annually, 100BANCH supports over 340 selected projects from approximately 1,090 entries. Learn more about 100BANCH here.