New 'You Are a Genius Project' Launched to Connect Children's Expressions with Society

UPDATER Inc., a company aiming to update society through lifestyle, has launched the 'You Are a Genius Project,' a pay-it-forward business initiative in partnership with children, starting June 3, 2026.

The project will generate revenue by utilizing the unique and free expressions of children in product packaging and services. A portion of these profits will be reinvested to address issues surrounding children, creating a cycle where 'expression becomes value, and that value returns to children,' aiming for sustainable solutions to social problems. In the first phase, collaborating with NPO WooMoo, which works on creating safe spaces and support for children, products featuring art from these children are scheduled for release in June 2026.

Background

In Japan, there are currently about 350,000 elementary and middle school students who do not attend school, and this number has been increasing for 11 consecutive years. These children face complex issues such as anxiety about the future, interpersonal relationships, and low self-esteem.

UPDATER has provided support through initiatives like a donation system within its 'Minna-Denryoku' 100% renewable energy retail business and events aimed at reducing experience gaps. Through these activities, the company experienced the free and rich sensibility of children's art and words, leading it to view them not just as 'beings to be supported,' but as 'partners' in updating society, which prompted the start of this project.

While Japan's SDG awareness rate is high at 84%, about 41% of companies aware of SDGs are not actively engaged, creating a 'green gap' between knowing and doing. This project aims to bridge this gap by implementing children's expressions in society, providing a catalyst for action for consumers and corporations.

Moving forward, the project plans to sequentially roll out products and services that leverage children's expressions in collaboration with various companies and organizations.

What is the 'You Are a Genius Project'?

It is a project that incorporates children's 'free expressions,' such as their art and words, into UPDATER's products and services to deliver them to society. While respecting the children's sensibilities, professional adults will accompany them with respect to shape their work into one-of-a-kind design products.