Link Music Inc. has launched “Link Ally,” a VTuber-focused training and employment support project in partnership with Type B Continuous Employment Support facilities. The project is now recruiting first-term members in three fields — VTuber candidates, creators, and operations staff — from September 1 (Tue) to October 1 (Thu), 2026, across nine areas in Japan.

What Is Link Ally? A Training Project Bridging Welfare and VTuber Activity

Link Ally is a project designed for people who feel anxious or face difficulties with regular employment due to illness, disability, or other circumstances, yet are interested in the world of VTubers and creative work — a place where they can take on challenges at their own pace. At partnered Type B Continuous Employment Support facilities, participants will engage in VTuber activities, illustration, video production, music, events, merchandise creation, and management as part of their training and productive activities.

Through these designated productive activities, participants receive wages while applying what they learn to real-world activities and creative projects. The name “Ally” carries the meaning of “supporter,” “helper,” and “companion,” reflecting the project’s goal of creating a place where you can take that first step with someone, even when it’s hard to do alone.

Notably, the organizers have made clear that Link Ally is not an audition. It is not a competitive selection process — rather, it is positioned as a project where participants, regardless of experience or skill, build on their desire to “give it a try” through learning and practice. In past examples of VTuber agencies supporting individuals facing social challenges, projects such as AMATERASU’s initiative to support former hikikomori (social recluses) through VTuber activities have also been reported.

Becoming, Creating, or Supporting a VTuber — Three Fields to Explore

The three recruitment fields are as follows. “VTuber candidates” take on streaming, singing, game commentary, video creation, social media engagement, and event appearances. “Creators” handle illustration, video production, Live2D rigging, music production, mixing, and recording. “Operations & staff” work on VTuber management, event planning and operations, social media, and merchandise planning and production.

The curriculum is a VTuber-focused original program created by active VTubers and creators. Rather than simply watching videos, it incorporates a cycle of “learn → assess → MISSION → feedback → clear,” designed to connect knowledge to practice. The curriculum will continue to be expanded and updated in response to industry changes and new tools.

Leveraging Real-World Know-How from VTuber Agency Link Studio-V

Link Music Inc., which operates Link Ally, also runs the VTuber agency “Link Studio-V.” In addition to managing and supporting its affiliated VTubers, the company has developed original songs and music videos, organized live events, produced merchandise, and collaborated with businesses and local governments. Its roster includes Amasora Ia, Amatsuka Seu, and Amayui Hiiro.

Link Ally will draw on the practical knowledge and experience accumulated through running the agency, applying them to its curriculum and activity support. The project is also building an environment to support first-time participants, including lending PCs and Live2D models, providing feedback on their creative work, offering streaming and activity support, and assisting with event appearances.

Future Plans — Building a New VTuber Brand Together with Participants

Link Ally envisions that in the future, participants with different roles — VTubers, creators, and operations staff — will come together to build and grow a new VTuber brand. First-term participants could become the founding members of that brand.

Depending on activity performance, aptitude, and the individual’s wishes, paths such as activities under the new brand or advancement to Link Studio-V are also envisioned. However, the organizers note that participation in the project does not guarantee affiliation with Link Music or Link Studio-V, a VTuber debut, or monetization. Applications are being accepted through the form on the Link Ally special page, with a deadline of October 1 (Thu).

Commentary and Outlook

While numerous training projects and auditions have emerged in the VTuber industry, the approach of partnering with Type B Continuous Employment Support facilities — where participants receive wages while engaging in training and productive activities — is a rare initiative. The fact that it covers not just on-screen streamers but three fields including behind-the-scenes roles like illustration, Live2D, and management feels like a realistic entry point that reflects the VTuber industry’s nature as a collective of diverse skill sets. Although constraints exist, such as recruitment being limited to nine areas where partnered facilities are located, if this model gains traction, it could open new possibilities for people who have had to give up on their activities due to health or life circumstances. The results of the first term and the trajectory of the envisioned new VTuber brand will be worth watching.

Source: PR TIMES