Signing an Agreement for
a Local Revitalization Entrepreneurship Program (SoldOut)

Since its establishment, SoldOut,Inc., has been on a mission to "make Japan a country where small- and medium-sized businesses and startups can flourish." SoldOut has been supporting such companies nationwide in the areas of digital marketing, software, media production/operation, and DX, based on an understanding of their challenges and unique qualities.
In 2021, SoldOut entered into a "Local Revitalization Entrepreneurship Program" agreement with the city of Kamaishi, Iwate Prefecture. This program, established by Japan's Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, allows employees of private companies in the country's three major metropolitan areas to be seconded to local governments for a certain period of time, where they contribute their expertise and experience to regional revitalization efforts. SoldOut has dispatched employees to the cities of Kamaishi, Iwate Prefecture, and Unnan, Shimane Prefecture, as part of this program.
To the city of Kamaishi, SoldOut dispatched Aoi Ikeido, a strategic planner who has been involved in the formulation of mission statements for various other companies as well as its own. Based on her track record and experience in launching new PR services within SoldOut, she is supporting Kamaishi's city promotion efforts and assisting with marketing for local food companies. By taking a fresh look at the region, we aim to rediscover its treasures and promote industrial development through exchanges between visitors to Kamaishi and its residents.

Interview

I was responsible for redefining the tourism concept and overseeing the production of city hall's website and leaflets. Most recently, I launched an e-commerce site for processed fish products and have been working to expand the business. Kamaishi is an open-minded community that welcomes external talent, providing a foundation for information-sharing through local networks and external talent communities. Although I was initially anxious about living alone in a rural area, I have had opportunities to go fishing in the morning with the locals and have been enjoying a life that appreciates the blessings of nature. Through these interactions, I have come to see the complexity of individuals, shifting my perspective from "rural area = a collective of people" to "rural area = a gathering of diverse individuals." I approach my work with the mindset of ensuring that each individual receives attentive service.