This competition brings the technologies and materials of small Tokyo manufacturers to life in new ways through proposals by talented designers. As participants collaborate to develop and market new products, they are supported in matters of intellectual property, design agreements, and sales channels.
Brand-building and product development aimed at local revitalization are supported through this project, which encourages municipalities, credit unions, enterprises, and designers to work together in business design for the local good. Initially, prospects are investigated in line with municipal government policy. Funding and sales channels are overseen by Shinkin Central Bank and the local cooperative credit bank. Finally, JDP assists with design planning and collaboration between designers and companies, as well as agreements, intellectual property, and publicity. In this way, locally responsive, locally driven business development is sought.
In the first phase of this project, new brand development took place on behalf of Nishiwaga, Iwate, in 2015. Drawing on the town's agricultural products and regional commerce, human resources, and other assets, a new local brand was created with input from Iwate designers. Development of original business resources and distribution channels have formed the central measures to revitalize local communities and economies.