Fukuoka to Offer Free Invitation to Up to 10 Participants for Digital Nomad Host Training Program "JDNA Community Manager Academy (CMA)"

The global population of digital nomads (Note: people who work while traveling to various locations using IT, without a fixed workplace) is estimated to have exceeded 40 million by 2025, and the competition among cities to attract them is accelerating, with over 60 countries establishing dedicated visas. However, there is a shortage of "host personnel" who can connect visiting digital nomads with the local community and create an environment where they "want to return."

To enhance the overall hosting environment in Fukuoka City, Colive Fukuoka is collaborating with the Japan Digital Nomad Association (JDNA) to offer a free invitation to up to 10 selected applicants for the "6th Community Manager Academy (hereinafter CMA)," a training program for digital nomad host personnel. The application deadline is July 15, 2026 (Wed).

Background: Cities where digital nomads "gather" have "communities" that welcome them.

Since its establishment in 2023, Colive Fukuoka has welcomed over 1,200 digital nomads to Fukuoka. While attracting global attention, to ensure this trend takes root in the region and is not just a fleeting phenomenon, it is crucial for the entire community, not just businesses, to improve their literacy in hosting international digital nomads. In digital nomad hubs worldwide, skilled "community managers" play a vital role in enhancing the attractiveness of the region, facilitating long-term stays, and creating business opportunities. We believe that nurturing human resources is essential for Fukuoka to become a self-sustaining city capable of hosting digital nomads.

This initiative is a human resource development program where up to 10 selected citizens and business operators will learn about digital nomads in English. Upon completion, they will act as "local host personnel." Fukuoka City has produced CMA graduates in the past (examples of certified regions: Fukuoka City, Kanazawa City, Shimonoseki City, Nagasaki City/Goto City, Hyuga City, etc.), and with this training slot, we expect to further broaden the base of individuals who can promote Fukuoka's appeal overseas, transcending national and cultural barriers.

What is the Community Manager Academy (CMA) by JDNA?

The "Community Manager Academy (CMA)" hosted by JDNA is an online course where participants learn how to create a comfortable living environment that attracts digital nomads, their lifestyle needs, and support methods from instructors from various countries with actual hosting experience, all in English. Throughout the 5 sessions, participants will build connections with community leaders who host globally.

The CMA features instructors and mentors such as Vitto Christaldi, a specialist in community management who led the large co-working space "Hubud" in Bali. The course is conducted in small teams (August 11 - September 15, 2026, with lectures primarily in English). Graduates will be certified as "Official JDNA Digital Nomad Community Managers."

Anyone interested in attracting and hosting digital nomads, including local governments, organizations, companies, and individuals, can apply (students are welcome; there are even high school graduates). English proficiency is not required. Many past graduates started with concerns about their English skills.

Connection to Colive Fukuoka Main Event (October)

The trained personnel will be connected to the Colive Fukuoka 2026 event in October. We provide a pathway to apply the knowledge gained in actual hosting situations, ensuring it doesn't remain mere theory.

Item

Details

Course Name

6th JDNA Community Manager Academy (CMA)

Organizer

Japan Digital Nomad Association (JDNA)

Capacity

Up to 10 participants from Fukuoka City

Course Fee

Free Invitation (Regular Price: 132,000 yen, tax included)

Application Deadline

July 15, 2026 (Wed)

Notification of Results

July 20, 2026 (Mon, Holiday)

Course Period

August 11, 2026 (Tue) - September 15, 2026 (Tue) / 5 sessions, online (Orientation Session 0 on August 4)

Optional Program

September 1-3, 2026, Chiang Mai, Thailand Study Tour (separate fee)

Please apply through the JDNA official website: https://japandigitalnomad.com/cma202607/

What You Will Gain from This Course

Upon completion of this course, you will acquire the following skills and network:

Practical ability to communicate the appeal of your region in English to digital nomads

Network with global community leaders

Deep understanding of the real needs of digital nomads

Practical acquisition of community management skills

About Colive Fukuoka

Colive Fukuoka is an annual community hub for hosting digital nomads. In 2025, approximately 500 participants from 57 countries attended the conference in October, generating an economic ripple effect of over 140 million yen. Starting in 2026, while developing an annual hosting community, we aim to connect with wider regions in Fukuoka City and Kyushu, promoting the acceptance of high-value inbound tourism and contributing to the local economy. A 10-day stay program is being prepared for October 2026. For details, please visit our website: https://www.colivefukuoka.com/

[Contact Information for this Matter]

Colive Fukuoka Secretariat (Yugyo Inc.)

E-mail: info[at]colivefukuoka.com *Please replace [at] with @ when sending.

*We kindly request that you refrain from sending business proposals or self-promotional messages.