About CELTIS Inc.
CELTIS Inc. was born from a deeply personal journey — one that transformed pain into purpose, and confusion into action.
Our Story
Our founder, Kanako Koga, spent over two decades in the television and video industry. Her life changed dramatically when both she and her son were diagnosed with developmental disorders. As a mother raising a child with autism in Japan, she encountered an overwhelming lack of accessible information, emotional support, and understanding from the world around her.
Kanako realized that while medical terms and institutional processes existed, there was a massive gap between information and understanding. Parents like her were left in the dark — anxious, isolated, and unsure where to turn. So, instead of remaining silent, she took action.
Our Mission
Founded in 2020 in Fukuoka, Japan, CELTIS Inc. exists to turn anxiety into reassurance. Our mission is to build a society where people with developmental disorders and disabilities are not pitied, but respected — seen not as burdens, but as valuable contributors.
We want to eliminate the loneliness and fear that so often surrounds disability in Japan. Through powerful storytelling, accessible information, and community-based media, CELTIS creates a bridge between caregivers, educators, families, and society at large.
Our guiding belief is 共存共栄 — Coexistence and Co-prosperity. We don't want to simply "support" people with disabilities. We want to build a world where everyone — regardless of ability — can live, work, and thrive side by side.
What We Do
- 📺 Small Step TVA short-form welfare information show broadcast on J:COM Fukuoka, designed to share practical, easy-to-understand content with families and professionals.
- 📹 Small Step ChannelOur official YouTube channel, hosting all Small Step TV episodes and additional video content for those unable to access traditional broadcast TV.
- 📰 STATICE Free MagazineA biannual print publication distributed to schools and welfare institutions, sharing real stories, facility spotlights, and educational guides in simple language.
- 🎤 Live Events & ForumsWe host bold conversations around taboo topics like sexuality, independence, and adult care, giving voice to topics others avoid in the disability space.
Our Vision
- People with disabilities are empowered taxpayers, not passive recipients of support
- Welfare and caregiving are seen as national strengths, not private struggles
- No one feels alone in raising or supporting a neurodiverse child
- True coexistence is achieved in workplaces, schools, and communities
This isn't just about "awareness." It's about systemic change — and we're building it, step by step.
Why "CELTIS"?
Our name comes from the Japanese word "Enoki" (榎), a hardy tree known in English as Celtis, or hackberry. It's a tree that grows strong even in difficult environments — just like the families we serve.
We're here to nurture roots, offer shade, and build something lasting.
From Our Founder
“I didn't start CELTIS because I was strong. I started it because I was scared, confused, and lost. No one was talking about what I was going through — so I decided to talk first. If this company can be a bridge between silence and support, then that's enough for me.
— Kanako Koga, Founder & CEO, CELTIS Inc.
If our story moves you, we invite you to walk with us. Become a supporter, a partner, or simply a listener. Even the smallest step can lead to something powerful.
Together, let's build a world where we all grow stronger — side by side.