[Kochi Prefecture Industrial Digitalization Promotion Division: Kochi Digital College] New Program 'Kochi Digital Promotion Program: Digi-Hatsu BASE' Launches to Cultivate 'Area-wide' Communication Skills in Rural Areas

The Kochi Prefecture Industrial Digitalization Promotion Division is launching the 'Kochi Digital Promotion Program: Digi-Hatsu BASE,' a year-long program for business owners and regional revitalization volunteers in rural areas, as part of the FY2026 Kochi Digital College. As the first event of this program, 'FIRST CONNECT' will be held over three days on June 16 (Tue), 17 (Wed), and 18 (Thu), 2026, at three locations in the prefecture (Hata, Reihoku, and Aki). Participant recruitment has begun (Contractor: AlphaDrive). 'Digi-Hatsu BASE' is a practical support program aimed at shifting from 'point' communication by individual companies to 'area' communication where regions connect, addressing the challenge faced by many rural business owners who feel limited by working alone. The name 'BASE' embodies two meanings: building the foundation (BASE) for communication, and gathering as a single base with regional peers to communicate. The program will provide hands-on support over four steps spanning approximately nine months, from the first event in June to the final report meeting in February of the following year. The first event, 'FIRST CONNECT,' is a two-hour session where local business owners meet to discuss their strengths and challenges, and explore what they can achieve together in the region, rather than just one-way lectures. Participation is free, with a capacity of about 10 people per location.