#Training Program #Sports Innovation #Aichi Sports

Aichi Sports Innovation Project Expands Recruitment

The Aichi Sports Future Co-Creation Lab, launched by Aichi Prefecture and managed by The Small Things, is set to welcome a limited number of additional participants. This decision came in light of high demand from potential applicants eager to join following the initial recruitment phase that ended on September 4. The application period for the additional spots runs from September 9 to September 17, 2025.

Overview of the Program

The lab aims to cultivate professionals in the sports industry through a series of workshops and seminars led by industry leaders from Japan and around the world. The program will include interactive workshops focused on co-creating with professional sports teams, providing participants with practical experience while also broadening their global perspectives on the sports business.

The Aichi Sports Future Co-Creation Lab has garnered significant attention since its announcement, highlighting the increasing interest in sports business careers. This additional recruitment period presents a rare opportunity for those who missed out in the initial call, encouraging interested individuals to apply sooner rather than later.

Event Details

• - Organizer: Aichi Prefecture
• - Managed by: The Small Things
• - Program Dates: September 24, 2025 – February 25, 2026 (held weekday evenings)
• - Total Sessions: 7 (the final session includes a presentation of results)
• - Format: Hybrid – In-person with an online option
• - Location: Wink Aichi, Nakamura Ward, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture
• - Target Audience: Professionals and students interested in sports business (preferably those who can attend all sessions)
• - Participants: Limited spots available (selected by lottery)

Program Highlights and Faculty

Spanning all seven sessions, the curriculum will kick off with an overview of sports business, followed by sessions on marketing strategies, sponsorship plans, and case studies from global events. Furthering collaborative learning, the program will feature group discussions and individual projects focusing on business plan development in conjunction with professional teams. Participants will have the chance to network and share insights, culminating in a final presentation session.

The program will be led by an esteemed panel of experts, including The Small Things' CEO Yoshifumi Tagami, as well as industry leaders from notable organizations. Speakers include an executive involved in developing the new Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters' stadium, a producer from the Swiss extreme sports event Swatch Nines, and senior management from various sports clubs, bringing a wealth of practical experience and global perspectives.

Notable Instructors

• - Taro Ogawa (Fighters Sports & Entertainment)
• - Seiya Takano (SPORTFIVE, Borussia Dortmund)
• - Yoshifumi Tagami (Aichi Sports Innovation Consortium)
• - Hardy Antonin (Hurricane)
• - Naoki Hase (Sports Marketing Laboratory)
• - Yosuke Hatano (Former Senior Athlete at Swatch AG)
• - Marco Neumeyer (Distillery GmbH)
• - Nobuo Motomura (DeNA Kawasaki Brave Thunders)
• - Hajime Yamaya (Nagasaki Vercate)

How to Apply

Applications for the general recruitment will be open from September 9 to September 17, 2025. Interested candidates should complete the registration via the dedicated online application form (Addendum application form). Selection will be conducted through a lottery system.

• - Application Link: Application Form URL

The lab forms part of Aichi Prefecture's initiatives focused on sports innovation in collaboration with industry, academia, and government. The Small Things aims to leverage this initiative to address regional challenges and foster the growth of the sports industry through co-creation and value addition.

Contact for Sponsorship and Co-Creation

Organizations interested in supporting the lab's vision or co-creating projects are encouraged to reach out for consultation on collaborative opportunities.

• - Contact Us: The Small Things Inquiry Form

About The Small Things

Established as a nod to the song 'small things' by the experimental soul band WONK, The Small Things seeks to redefine traditional business models. With a commitment to dialogue and experimental approaches, the company aims to cultivate new sports experiences while enhancing community engagement and collaboration with fans and sponsors. Grounded in the philosophy