Exceed Inc. to Host Online Seminar on Regional Collaborative Operation for Programming Schools

Exceed Inc. (Headquarters: Shibuya-ku, Tokyo; Representative Director: Aiko Sawabe), provider of digital talent development service 'TechHigher' for teenagers and programming school 'Tech for elementary' for children, will host an online seminar for programming school operators and educators on June 23, 2026 (Tue), from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM. The seminar will feature Shinobu Yamane, representative of 'e-next Programming School' in Shimonoseki City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, as a guest lecturer.

The seminar will explain specific methods for breaking through the limitations of independent classroom operation amidst challenges such as the declining birthrate and rising customer acquisition costs. It will focus on constructing a 'regional education ecosystem' that involves local after-school programs, businesses, governments, universities, and parent communities.

Local Events as a 'Catalyst for School Growth': The Practice of 'Mieru Project'

The 'Mieru Project' is an initiative based on the philosophy of 'supporting children's passion.' It creates environments where children can learn, connect with peers, and become immersed in activities. Key activities include 'Mieru Fes,' where children discover new interests through career experience and stage programs; 'Mieru School,' which connects diverse regional schools; and experiences ranging from beauty and entertainment to finance, as well as original shops. The 'Mieru Fes vol.6' held in March 2026 saw 1,483 attendees, and LINE official account registrations exceeded 2,000, functioning as a platform connecting local parenting households, schools, and businesses. For programming schools, regional events and trial sessions serve as essential touchpoints that enhance trust and convey the value of the school, rather than being mere one-time customer acquisition measures.

Connecting Schools, Businesses, and Governments: Exceeding the Limits of Independent Operation

While programming schools are vital places for fostering digital skills and creativity, it is difficult for schools to handle everything alone—including brand awareness, creation of experience opportunities, improved retention, and building local trust—due to the declining birthrate, rising acquisition costs, and increasing business burden. The Mieru Project views schools, local businesses, governments, and parents not as independent entities, but as part of a single 'regional ecosystem' supporting children's passion.

1. Strong Cooperation with Local Government: Obtained support from Shimonoseki City (Planning Division and Smart City Promotion Council), dramatically improving credibility and creating a safe environment for parents.

2. Partnerships with Local Businesses: Secured tangible and intangible support from local companies, including construction firms that provide space for free and redesign interiors in popular 'Minecraft' styles.

3. Cooperation with Universities and Students: Promotes PBL (Project-Based Learning) with Shimonoseki City University's volunteer circles, data science departments, and Baiko Gakuin University, establishing a system to nurture teaching talent across the region.

A 'New School Operation Scheme' Balancing Affordability and Sustainability

The seminar will cover an innovative scheme based on Mieru Project practices:

• Business Model Not Dependent Solely on Tuition: By building a system not relying only on membership fees, the school achieves significantly lower tuition rates than typical after-school programs.

• Sponsor Strategy Focused on 'Minecraft Architecture': By specializing in Minecraft architecture, the school attracts sponsorships from local industries like construction and manufacturing. This benefits companies by contributing to next-generation development and regional contribution.

• Cross-selling and Sharing Students with Other Industries: Utilizing the strength of the local community, it collaborates with other after-school programs (e.g., soccer schools) to share students and significantly reduce acquisition costs.

'Transforming the programming school into an entrance where local children encounter a new world.' The seminar will share specific hints for achieving this.