Planet Finance Japan (PFJ) is a branch of Planet Finance, an international non-profit organization focused on poverty reduction through microfinance and entrepreneurship development. While Planet Finance operates globally, PFJ specifically addresses financial inclusion challenges within Japan and supports entrepreneurial ventures, particularly those aligned with social impact and sustainable development goals. PFJ recognizes that while Japan is a developed nation, segments of its population face financial exclusion. These might include single mothers, elderly individuals on fixed incomes, people with disabilities, and marginalized communities. Furthermore, Japan faces unique challenges related to an aging population, rural depopulation, and economic stagnation in certain regions. PFJ works to address these issues by providing access to financial services and business support, thereby empowering individuals to become financially independent and contributing members of society. PFJ’s activities generally revolve around two main pillars: supporting microfinance institutions (MFIs) and fostering social entrepreneurship. Regarding MFIs, PFJ doesn’t typically provide direct loans to individuals in Japan, as that space is largely covered by existing financial institutions. Instead, PFJ focuses on strengthening the ecosystem by providing technical assistance and capacity building to smaller, local MFIs or community-based organizations. This includes training staff in best practices for microloan management, risk assessment, and financial literacy education for their clients. By improving the operational efficiency and reach of these local organizations, PFJ contributes to a more robust and inclusive microfinance landscape. On the entrepreneurship front, PFJ actively supports social entrepreneurs, individuals who launch businesses aimed at solving social or environmental problems. This support can take various forms: seed funding for promising startups, mentorship programs connecting entrepreneurs with experienced business leaders, workshops on business plan development and marketing, and networking opportunities to connect entrepreneurs with potential investors and partners. PFJ often focuses on businesses tackling issues such as elderly care, sustainable agriculture, waste management, and community revitalization in underserved areas. A crucial aspect of PFJ’s approach is its emphasis on financial literacy. Understanding financial concepts, managing budgets, and making informed investment decisions are essential for long-term financial stability. PFJ designs and delivers financial literacy programs tailored to the specific needs of vulnerable populations, helping them build the skills necessary to manage their finances effectively and participate more fully in the economy. Ultimately, Planet Finance Japan’s mission is to contribute to a more equitable and sustainable society in Japan by empowering individuals and supporting innovative businesses that address pressing social and environmental challenges. While the specific activities might adapt to the evolving needs of the Japanese context, the core focus remains on fostering financial inclusion and promoting social impact through microfinance and entrepreneurship.