Shirahama Town in Wakayama Prefecture, along with OS, Oriental Consultants, and NEC Solution Innovators, launched the Shirahama Innovation Hub (SIH) on April 1. This initiative seeks to boost the region and tackle future challenges. Shirahama Town Mayor Yasuhiro Oe is the representative director. NEC Solution Innovators announced the establishment of SIH on April 2.
Shirahama’s economy depends significantly on tourism. We have an aging population and fewer people. So, we need to create new industries and attract businesses without delay. Previous efforts tried to attract IT companies and improve workcation options. However, they didn’t create the economic revival needed.
OS, Oriental Consultants, and NEC Solution Innovators have partnered with Shirahama Town. They aim to boost IT talent development and attract business. The public and private sectors teamed up to create the Shirahama Innovation Hub. This hub aims to be a center for open innovation.
Key Activities of the Shirahama Innovation Hub
SIH will focus on two core objectives: attracting businesses and fostering human interaction.
- Business Attraction
- Encouraging businesses and services that take advantage of Shirahama’s unique traits.
- Connecting businesses with skilled professionals.
- Providing consultation for companies looking to expand in the region.
- Enhancing Human Flow
- Promoting collaborations between local and external businesses.
- Focus on growing the “related population.” These are people who don’t live in the area but have strong connections through work and business.
Future Plans
SIH aims to test new business models using Shirahama’s resources. They will support skill development for local talent. Also, they plan to organize local tours focused on business. Additionally, a membership system will be introduced to encourage wider participation.
The Shirahama Innovation Hub wants to turn the region into a center for innovation, business growth, and sustainable economic development.
