Shibuya Ward, along with the Shibuya Ward Shopping Street Federation, has launched the "YOU MAKE SHIBUYA Crowdfunding" initiative to support industries that have driven Shibuya's culture. This project aims to bolster Shibuya's culture through both tangible and digital means. On July 21st, a press conference was held featuring Shibuya Ward Mayor Ken Hasebe and Kenji Onishi, Chairman of the Shibuya Ward Shopping Street Federation. This was followed by a panel discussion with Naohiro Ukawa, representative of DOMMUNE, and DJ/radio personality NAZ Chris.

The "YOU MAKE SHIBUYA Crowdfunding" project supports the entertainment, fashion, food and beverage, and hairdressing industries that have been at the forefront of Shibuya's culture, all of which have been impacted by the pandemic-induced slowdown. Funds raised will be supplemented by the ward's budget, fostering the creation of "Shibuya of the Future" together with those who love the area.

This project provides support aimed at updating the district's infrastructure in both real and digital aspects. For physical support, assistance is offered for maintaining safe and secure business operations, such as providing equipment for infection prevention measures. On the digital front, investments in online streaming facilities are being considered, with tailored support planned for each industry.

Furthermore, depending on the total funds raised, the project may extend to system implementation support for other private facilities. For the fashion industry, it envisions creating an e-commerce site featuring shops within Shibuya Ward, tentatively named "YOU MAKE SIBUYA SHOP," and offering platforms for designers and models to showcase their work through online fashion shows and similar events.

The crowdfunding offers 12 tiers, ranging from 850 yen to 1 million yen (10 general tiers and 2 corporate tiers). Each tier provides unique returns exclusive to Shibuya. Entertainment-focused returns include the bestowal of a "Virtual Shibuya Resident" ID card, allowing support for Shibuya even if not a resident, and access to exclusive events within "Virtual Shibuya," Shibuya's official VR event space. Additionally, charity T-shirts, created in collaboration with brands and artists connected to Shibuya, are also planned.

In conjunction with the "YOU MAKE SHIBUYA Crowdfunding," a promotional web movie for the project has also been released. The film features 23 individuals, including Shibuya Tourism Ambassador Zeebra, who are currently living in or aspire to be part of Shibuya. They share their personal connections to "Shibuya" and express their feelings for the district amidst the pandemic.

Shibuya's culture, which has suffered significantly with an 81% decrease in visitors due to the novel coronavirus, is facing a critical juncture. The "YOU MAKE SHIBUYA Crowdfunding" aims not only to revitalize the industries that have formed the core of Shibuya's culture but also to embody the unique "Shibuya spirit" that overcomes any change and connects to the future.