"The goal isn't a contract, but starting a dialogue"—SET launches free web app 'FOR COLLABORATION' to open doors for partnerships

"People who want to collaborate often stop before taking that first step. We wanted to make that 'first step' something anyone can take"—Junosuke Mitsui, Director of certified NPO SET, describes the motivation behind the app.

When considering collaboration with SET, representatives from companies, government bodies, and universities often hesitate to proceed due to uncertainty—such as not knowing what specific projects they could work on together or how to initiate contact. Until now, SET's partnership development has largely relied on personal, relationship-based approaches. This new app aims to empower interested organizations to explore collaboration possibilities on their own terms.

■ SET's Three-Stage 'Collaboration Map'

On June 16, 2026, certified NPO SET (based in Hirota-cho, Rikuzentakata City, Iwate Prefecture) launched the free web application 'FOR COLLABORATION,' an AI-powered partnership proposal tool.

Users begin by selecting their organization type (corporation, government/administration, NPO/NGO, or university/educational institution), then input details such as organization name, interests, mission, purpose, challenges, and ideas for joint initiatives. Even selecting from checkboxes generates results. Leveraging SET’s track record, strengths, and collaboration models, the AI instantly generates three customized partnership plans. These are structured in three stages: 'Start Small → Work Together → Deepen Collaboration,' ranging from light engagements like site visits or one-day programs to deeper commitments such as joint ventures or accepting dispatched personnel. Each proposal includes 'Why Rikuzentakata?', 'First Step,' and 'SET Contact Person,' with two types of summaries generated for internal sharing and reporting.

■ The Next Step, After 15 Years of Practice

"This isn't a sales tool, but an entry point to build connections. The goal isn't a contract, but starting a dialogue"—Director Mitsui’s words perfectly capture the app’s design philosophy.

SET was founded in 2011 in Hirota-cho, Rikuzentakata City (population approx. 3,000), following the Great East Japan Earthquake. Over 15 years, it has hosted around 17,000 young people, with about 1,400 alumni from its university program (CMSP) forming a strong network. As SET approaches its 15th anniversary in March 2027, this initiative reflects a shift from a person-dependent model to an AI-enabled approach for opening collaboration opportunities. Notably, input data is not used for AI training.

■ Try It Out

Organizations interested in the proposals can click 'Contact the SET Representative' within the app. A SET team member will respond within three business days.

Fifteen years of grassroots practice from a small town now becomes an accessible entry point to connect with your organization. Try it today.

For inquiries and more details, visit the official SET website:

https://www.nposet.org/

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■ About Certified NPO SET

SET’s mission is to turn individual aspirations into action and create positive change for Japan’s future. Since the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, SET has built frameworks in Iwate Prefecture and beyond where youth and local residents learn and grow together. Through school trip homestays, programs for university students and professionals, and community-building initiatives, SET fosters lasting relationships between young people and communities. In FY2024, over 5,000 participants joined SET programs. Today, its activities span multiple regions beyond Iwate. By simultaneously nurturing youth development and community vitality, SET is advancing sustainable regional development rooted in human and community connections. SET has received the Prime Minister’s Award twice, among numerous other honors.