Gateway to Sustainability in Japan

For Good Awards 2025 celebrates top Japanese social impact projects

The For Good Awards 2025 recognised outstanding social impact projects hosted on the “For Good” crowdfunding platform throughout 2025. Out of more than 1,000 projects listed during the year, 80 were nominated for their contributions to social well-being. A total of 16 projects received awards across various categories, alongside two Hall of Fame inductions and a supporter award.

(Image: borderless-japan.com)

In the Regional Revitalisation category, the top award went to a project that converts the 127-year-old Kijoka Elementary School, which had closed down, into a lodging facility. The initiative raised over 15 million yen from 671 supporters. The Environment and Ethical Award went to a travelling picture book project designed to protect Japanese marine environments for future generations.

The Food and Agriculture Award was presented the preservation of a high-quality grape cultivation in Yamagata Prefecture. This project seeks to ensure that traditional farming techniques are passed down to the next generation. In the international sphere, NPO Friends Without a Border Japan won the International Cooperation Award for their work supporting the health and lives of children in Laos, raising nearly 16 million yen.

Special recognition was given to projects with significant social influence. The Social Movement Award was granted to the creation of a self-sufficient eco-village that proposes a new way of living beyond traditional settlement. Additionally, the Social Impact Award went to the Emergency Action Against University of Tokyo Tuition Hikes, which highlighted the financial struggles of students across 120 universities to the government.

The ceremony also featured Hall of Fame inductions for individuals with a sustained history of social contribution. Asaka Kawase, known as the “Prime Minister” of Neco Republic, was honoured for her continuous work in cat rescue and the creation of shelters. Kiyomi Kitamura was also inducted for her dedicated support of designers and women in Gaza amidst ongoing conflict.

The awards selection process focuses on projects that embody the platform’s slogan of turning thoughts into action to improve society. It aims to establish role models for solving social issues and to encourage more individuals to take social action.

Written by
Zenbird Editorial Team

The Zenbird Editorial Team is here to ensure the best social good ideas are presented, thus making the world a better one.

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Written by Zenbird Editorial Team