In postwar Japan, the state has taken on many roles in supporting people’s lives—through social security, economic policy, and national defense. However, with the accelerating decline in birthrate and the aging population, the number of taxpayers will decrease, fundamentally altering the balance between those who support and those who receive social security. Moreover, the business models that once sustained Japan’s economic growth are now reaching a turning point.

In this context, we must rethink the structure of society, moving away from reliance on the state alone and toward a new model where individuals connect and support one another. It is time to reinterpret and revive the spirit of mutual help that once formed the backbone of Japanese society. Change is also needed in the capital market system. Investments in socially significant innovations and ventures often do not yield short-term profits, making them less attractive to conventional investors. While continuing to benefit from capitalism, we must also explore new flows of capital—a search now taking place in many parts of the world. Historically, wealth inequality has bred social unrest and conflict. Now is the time to build a sustainable structure where people’s aspirations and capital flow into initiatives that improve society, and where many can share the benefits.

READYFOR Inc. has tackled these challenges by working to diversify philanthropy. Launched in 2011 as Japan’s first crowdfunding platform, READYFOR has connected those who take action to improve society with those who wish to support such endeavors. Examples include a project that gathered support from approximately 90,000 people to preserve the valuable specimens of the National Museum of Nature and Science, and another to restore the cultural treasures of Horyuji Temple. During the COVID-19 pandemic, READYFOR launched emergency relief funds for medical institutions and vulnerable households, garnering widespread empathy and financial support. Our support goes beyond fundraising—we also assist project leaders to ensure their efforts lead to sustained social impact.

In recent years, READYFOR has also expanded its role as a philanthropy advisor, acting as a bridge between individual donors and social impact organizations. We are also promoting legacy donations. Many people want to contribute but don’t know which causes they can trust. Based on the expertise we’ve cultivated, we clarify trustworthy donation options and make philanthropy more accessible. As these efforts expand, so too will the role of READYFOR.

Looking toward the next 10, 50, and even 100 years, READYFOR aims to create mechanisms that ensure capital reaches where it is truly needed. In doing so, we give voice to those who otherwise remain unheard. READYFOR’s purpose is to “gather everyone’s aspirations and create a flow of capital that improves society.” This flow of money should not be controlled by a select few in power—it should be built through listening to people’s voices and working together. Grounded in crowdfunding, READYFOR will continue to build a reliable and robust flow of capital that supports remarkable initiatives across the country.

The Inochi Forum will collaborate with organizations like READYFOR to listen to people’s voices, gather collective aspirations, and create funding flows that contribute to the common good.

[Reference]

・READYFOR Inc.

https://readyfor.jp

[Action Platform]

Economy, Employment and Poverty

[SDGs]