What does gaming mean to you?
Some might think of games as mere play. However, there are companies that take this playful spirit seriously.
This time, we interviewed Mr. Daiki Kato, CEO of ePARA Inc.
Originally working as a court clerk for the national government, Mr. Kato had an encounter that connected him with people with disabilities, leading him to realize the charm and potential of games.
He shared with us his journey so far and the world he aims to create through eSports.
*Information was verified and partially updated on March 13, 2026.
1. What is ePARA Inc.?
ePARA Inc. operates under the philosophy of "Play seriously, change tomorrow," engaging in activities that support the social participation of people with disabilities through eSports.
One of their initiatives is organizing eSports events. They creatively plan and manage these events by adjusting rules and devices to ensure that people with disabilities can enjoy games just like anyone else.
They are also actively involved in hiring people with disabilities. In fact, they employ a blind employee and an employee with muscular dystrophy, both of whom are thriving in remote work environments.
1-1. "Barrier-Free eSports Tournament" that leverages the strengths of people with disabilities
[Interviewer: Akaishi / Interviewee: Mr. Kato]
Akaishi: I understand that various people with disabilities participate in your eSports tournaments. Are there any particular considerations you make?
Mr. Kato: We focus a lot on device customization.
For instance, an employee with muscular dystrophy has created a custom controller that they operate with their chin.
We collaborate with physical and occupational therapists to figure out how each person can play games. While hardware solutions are possible, visually impaired players face software challenges, such as games not being compatible with screen readers.
In such cases, we assist by providing audio guidance to help them play.
Akaishi: What do you prioritize when organizing eSports tournaments?
Mr. Kato: We prioritize discussing ways to ensure everyone can enjoy communicating.
The necessary services and support vary for each individual.
It's crucial not to make assumptions from the support side but to ask people with disabilities what kind of support they need.
1-2. Addressing employment challenges for people with disabilities through eSports
Akaishi: How does your employment support program work towards job placement?
Mr. Kato: We are not an educational institution, so instead of directly teaching specialized knowledge, we focus on visualizing the skills that users inherently possess through practical work.
For example, if someone is good at writing, they can write articles for an owned media outlet that shares eSports-related information, thereby enhancing their portfolio.
We make the skills and experiences from "ePARA" and previous jobs visible as data, matching them with the needs of hiring companies.
So far, most job placements have been in the IT industry, which often adopts telework.
Akaishi: How can one apply for employment support?
Mr. Kato: We accept inquiries through the contact form on our website.
We start with an interview to understand what kind of company they want to work for and what skills they want to utilize, and then propose steps towards employment that suit them.
Akaishi: What do you emphasize during interviews?
Mr. Kato: Our current employment support focuses on creating environments where people can shine, even if they have skills and goals but are unsure how to utilize them.
Therefore, during interviews, we make sure to explain that we are not a welfare organization.
Reference: News Site｜ePARA Inc.
1-3. What is the "BrainTech Device" that visualizes the emotions of people with disabilities?
Akaishi: Please tell us about the BrainTech device being developed in collaboration with a university research institution.
Mr. Kato: The BrainTech device is a tool that reads brainwaves through a device worn on the head, visualizing the wearer's emotions to facilitate communication.
Currently, we are assisting with its use in rehabilitation for functional improvement in stroke patients.
We believe it plays a significant role not only in motor functions but also in communication.
For example, for individuals with autism who find communication challenging, determining decision-making after their parents pass away is a concern. By observing stress levels through brainwaves, the device can help confirm their intentions, potentially aiding in solving such issues.
We are researching the impact of games on people, such as whether games have a relaxing effect or enhance concentration, and are actively developing in this area.
The potential of BrainTech devices is growing day by day.
2. Who is Daiki Kato, the CEO?
Mr. Kato originally aspired to become a lawyer.
The bar exam can only be taken within five years of completing law school or passing the preliminary exam. After multiple attempts, five years had passed, and Mr. Kato found himself at 29.
While others were advancing in their careers, Mr. Kato faced a fresh start and decided to take the exam for court staff, eventually working at the forefront of law.
What led Mr. Kato, who had no prior connection with people with disabilities, to focus on eSports?
2-1. From national civil servant to the world of welfare
Akaishi: Why did you decide to leave your position as a court clerk?
Mr. Kato: It was triggered by my grandmother developing alcoholism and dementia.
It was challenging to access the adult guardianship system, and I realized that even if a system exists, it can't be used if people aren't aware of it.
Japan
