Nikkei Inc. Launches initiative to introduce the "voices of spirit" from SMEs fighting back against the pandemic

The Nikkei Inc. launched an initiative on June 4 to support mid-sized and small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs) striving to overcome the COVID-19 pandemic through creativity and ingenuity. The initiative, titled "Mid-Sized & SME Theater: NIKKEI Voices of Spirit - Companies We Want to Preserve for 2030" (Sponsored by Dell, in cooperation with Passion School and BIS GROUP), began on June 4.
Concurrently, it began soliciting "videos conveying messages (Voices of Spirit) to overcome COVID-19 and revitalize Japan" from mid-sized and small businesses nationwide. An announcement (application deadline: July 31) was published in the same day's issue of the Nihon Keizai Shimbun.

In late August, the newspaper will feature 150 companies selected through a screening process and enable video viewing using Nikkei AR. A YouTube channel compiling the 150 companies' videos is also planned, aiming to provide mid-sized and small businesses with an information dissemination opportunity and deliver each company's "voice" nationwide.
The company has previously implemented various initiatives supporting SMEs. Beyond print coverage, these include the "Fast-Growing Companies Conference," "Middle Management Theater: Marumaru no Onna," "Japanese Companies Variety: 15-Second Work TV," and the "NIKKEI National Company Song Contest" (also open to large corporations). The company song contest, in particular, generated significant nationwide response.

To apply, upload a video (3 minutes or less) to YouTube, fill out the application form with the required information, and email it to the organizing office. The judging criteria are:
① Does the content energize society?
② Does it convey the company's spirit?
③ Does it convey the company's unique initiatives?
The video content can include the company's philosophy, product introductions
Video content may include corporate philosophy, product introductions, company songs, singing, dancing, or calls for business partnerships. However, applicant companies must have absolutely no ties to antisocial forces.
For application details and forms, visit http://esf.nikkei.co.jp/e/tamashii/まで.