News Summary

The Ministry of SMEs and Startups in South Korea has opened applications for the 10th K-Startup Grand Challenge (KSGC) 2025, a flagship global inbound program designed to help international startups expand into Korea and scale across Asia. The program, which offers up to ₩950 million (US$633K) in total government support, includes equity-free prize money, travel and living stipends, and commercialization grants. It introduces a hybrid format that allows participants to start remotely, with phases focusing on market exploration, entry, and growth. The challenge provides startups with exposure to Korea’s top institutions and global stakeholders, including opportunities to pitch at the APEC Small and Medium Enterprises Ministerial Meeting and showcase at the COMEUP 2025 conference. The program also facilitates strategic partnerships with Korea’s leading conglomerates and investment opportunities with industry-leading VCs. Applications are open until June 13, 2025, and are available to startups founded and led by non-Korean nationals.