[April 18, Nagoya] Supporting the "Independence and Networking" of Single Mothers. "Koi-hi Project 2026" Networking Event to be Held on April 18

Grameen Nippon (Headquarters: Chuo-ku, Tokyo, President: Masahiro Hyakuno) will hold a networking event for single mothers, 'A Gathering Where the Future Becomes a Little Lighter with Coffee and Conversation,' on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 'willMe' (Nagoya City), a play and learning classroom for women and children. This event is part of the 'Koi-hi Project 2026,' which expands support in collaboration with cafes nationwide, and is an initiative to support women taking a new step forward together with regional partners in Aichi and Gifu.

■ Background: Melting the Wall of "Isolation" in Single-Parent Households, Which is Becoming More Serious
The relative poverty rate of single-parent households in Japan is about 48%, a high level among OECD countries. In addition to economic difficulties, 'social isolation,' such as 'having no one to consult' and 'having few points of contact with the community,' is a major factor hindering the step towards independence. This event embodies a 'co-creative support model' that presents options for independence such as 'entrepreneurship, employment, and microfinance' and encourages women as a whole community.

■ Features of the Event: "2 Hours" of Discussing a Positive Future
We have prepared content that combines emotional and practical benefits so that participants can take home the hope that 'maybe I can do it too.'

1. Real Stories of 'Starting a Business at 50' and 'Independence'
- Ms. Tomoko Hayakawa (Owner of TOMO CAFF'E): Started a business at the age of 50 from being a full-time housewife. She will talk about the trajectory of creating a store loved by the community under the banner of 'wanting to convey the importance of a single meal.'
- Ms. Kyoko Tsukagoshi (tsukaLdesign): Will share the process of realizing the 'reconstruction of working styles' based on her own experience utilizing microfinance.

2. Creating a 'Place to Belong' and an 'Art Experience' Where Parents and Children Can Spend Time Safely
An 'Children's Handprint Artwork' session by Gencho Design Laboratory will be held concurrently. After the workshop, children can play in the kids' space in the venue, so mothers can concentrate on networking and talking with peace of mind.

3. The Circle of Support Connected by a Cup of Coffee
We will offer 'Koi-hi', a donation-type coffee currently being rolled out at supporting cafes nationwide. While gathering around a warm cup, participants and support staff can relax and talk about their future lives.

■ What is the 'Koi-hi Project 2026'?
Based on the concept of 'supporting single mothers living rich lives,' this is a campaign to sell original coffee 'Koi-hi' at supporting cafes nationwide for two months starting from International Women's Day (March 8). A portion of the sales is used to support single mothers. In FY2025, 29 stores nationwide participated, selling 2,478 cups.

■ Event Overview
- Name: A Gathering Where the Future Becomes a Little Lighter with Coffee and Conversation
- Date and Time: Saturday, April 18, 2026, 10:00 - 12:00
- Venue: willMe (Shin-Ei Heights Chikusa 3F, 1-6-4 Imaike, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya City)
- Cooperation: TOMO CAFF'E, willMe, tsukaLdesign, Gencho Design Laboratory
- Contents: Introduction of Grameen Nippon activities, talk session, networking event, handprint artwork

■ Introduction of Collaborative Partners (Community-wide Support System)
- TOMO CAFF'E (Nagoya): Leading the local community through food.
- wil...