100BANCH selects new GARAGE projects on akiya, kimono, and AI careers

100BANCH, a experimentation district based in Shibuya, announced three of their latest initiatives selected for its 101st GARAGE Program. Commencing in December 2025, the new cohort addresses diverse social and environmental challenges, ranging from the circular use of Japan’s vacant housing stock (ReFamily) and traditional textiles (Kimono Edition) to the application of artificial intelligence in career development (ikigAI).

100BANCH operates under the concept of an “experimental district to enrich the world 100 years from now.” The facility provides mentorship and workspace to young leaders under the age of 35 who possess ambitious visions for the future. The GARAGE Program, its core accelerator initiative, has selected 390 projects from approximately 1,185 applications to date, fostering a community of innovators dedicated to social change.

ReFamily addresses the critical issue of akiya (empty houses) in Japan. Rather than viewing vacant properties merely as real estate assets, the project redefines them as “places where memories circulate.” It aims to alleviate the emotional burden often felt by owners when letting go of family homes. By visualising the history and memories attached to these properties, ReFamily seeks to bridge the gap between former owners and new residents, facilitating the circulation of housing stock that is physically sound but remains dormant due to psychological barriers.

Kimono Edition focuses on the upcycling of traditional Japanese textiles. The project repurposes discarded or dormant obi (kimono sashes) into high-value bookbindings, drawing inspiration from the French culture of reliure (bookbinding). In Europe, bookbinding has long been appreciated as an art form that preserves intellectual property. Kimono Edition aims to “Japanise” this concept by applying the intricate craftsmanship of obi fabrics to the covers of books, notebooks, and albums. This approach transforms textile waste into one-of-a-kind arts and crafts, promoting resource circulation while preserving the aesthetic value of traditional Japanese garments.

ikigAI utilises generative AI to support self-discovery and career planning for students and young professionals. Responding to the growing anxiety among youth regarding career paths, the project employs “AI vision boards” to visualise personal values and ideals. By integrating this tool into university classes and corporate training, the project aims to foster psychological safety and intrinsic motivation, moving beyond conventional one-way career education toward a model of co-creative understanding.

These teams will conduct their experiments over a three-month period at the 100BANCH facility. The accelerator continues to accept applications year-round, with the deadline for the 103rd batch, scheduled to enter in February, set for 22 December.