"Co-Innovation Valley" is a project centered on three business areas: 2026) a plan to open a university that will train people who can truly revitalize the region, 4) a co-creation base that aims to develop towns, and XNUMX) a renewable energy industry that utilizes natural capital. Within this project, the plan is to open "Co-Innovation University (tentative name)" in April XNUMX with co-creation studies at its core. The aim is not just to develop the "tourism industry" as it has been until now, but to develop sustainable industries rooted in the region and to train people who can truly face Japan's social issues.

　In the summer of 2024, events such as open campuses were held in Tokyo, Gifu, and Hida, attracting around 100 visitors. Many of the visitors were high school students who were interested in local issues and in asking questions and co-creating with the local community.

　From September 9st (Sat) to 21rd (Holiday), the "Hida Co-Innovation Festival" was held at the former Toyo Co., Ltd. factory site (Hida City, Gifu Prefecture) near JR Takayama Main Line's "Hida Furukawa Station" as a kickoff for the entire "Co-Innovation Valley" project.

　Co-Innovation University (provisional name) has an enrollment capacity of 120 students and is planned to open in April 1 with one faculty, the Faculty of Co-Creation. In the first year, students will use Hida, Gifu Prefecture as the main campus, and from the second year onwards, they will select a base of interest from affiliated regions across the country (2026 learning bases are planned) to study "co-creation studies". Emphasis will be placed on practical learning where students actually participate in projects in the local area, and students will acquire "co-creation" by working closely with the local community.

　In addition to the co-creation center "Soranotani" scheduled to open in 2027, the campus will renovate old houses and restaurants in the town and use the entire town as a campus. The aim is to become a university that is rooted in the local community.

*As the establishment is still under planning, the name and contents may be subject to change.

reference:[General Incorporated Association CoIU Establishment Fund] "Co-Innovation Valley" project to promote true regional development launched. 9 supporting companies announced, kickoff event to be held from September 21st (Sat) to 23rd (Mon)