Free 2026 Workplace Culture Consulting for Family-Friendly Certified Employers

작성자:
Free workplace culture consulting for family-friendly certified employers

Organizations that already hold Korea’s Family-Friendly Certification but need better employee participation or stronger workplace practices can apply for the 2026 Workplace Culture Improvement Consulting Program. The service is fully funded and tailored to each employer, covering everything from the introduction of family-friendly policies to care support, gender equality, and ESG-linked workplace culture.

2026 Workplace Culture Consulting at a Glance

Item Details
Eligible applicants Family-Friendly Certified companies and institutions seeking to review their policies or improve workplace culture
Administration Supported and supervised by the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family; operated by the Family-Friendly Support Center at the Korean Institute for Healthy Family
Benefits Fully funded, customized on-site consulting, a final report, and follow-up support
Application and service period May through August 2026; applications may close early when the budget is exhausted
How to apply Submit company information and current family-friendly policy details through the Workplace Culture Improvement Consulting page on the Family-Friendly Support Program website
Contact Family-Friendly Support Center: 02-3479-7673 or 02-3479-7676

Who Can Apply?

The program is open to companies and institutions that have already earned Family-Friendly Certification. It is intended for employers that want to review their current family-friendly policies, increase employee participation, or create a more supportive organizational culture.

Priority is given to small and medium-sized enterprises located outside the Seoul metropolitan area. An eligible SME that completes the consulting program may receive three additional points during its recertification assessment.

What Support Is Available?

Consulting is divided into basic, advanced, and topic-specific modules according to the organization’s current conditions and improvement goals.

  • Basic Module A: Helps an employer introduce and establish suitable family-friendly policies. It generally includes at least two visits over approximately three weeks.
  • Advanced Module B: Focuses on increasing policy use and improving family-friendly workplace culture. It generally includes at least four visits over approximately eight weeks.
  • Topic Module: Addresses one of three themes—care-friendly workplaces, gender-equal workplaces, or family-friendly ESG. It generally includes at least four visits over approximately eight weeks.

The consulting process may include a review of current practices, employee surveys and interviews, comparisons with successful cases, policy design, and monitoring. After completion, the organization receives a final report. Follow-up support may include checking whether recommended policies were implemented and connecting the employer with family-friendly workplace education and professional networks.

How to Apply and What Happens Next

  1. Sign in to the Family-Friendly Support Program website using a corporate member account.
  2. Open the Workplace Culture Improvement Consulting application page and enter the organization’s information and current family-friendly policies.
  3. Submit the application. The program operator will review it and select participating companies and institutions.
  4. Selected applicants will be notified individually and will coordinate the schedule and consulting plan with an assigned consultant.
  5. The consultant will analyze current conditions, recommend or design policies, and provide a final report and follow-up support.

Eligibility Limits and Important Conditions

  • Companies and institutions that have not yet received Family-Friendly Certification are not eligible for this workplace culture consulting program.
  • Because priority is given to SMEs outside the Seoul metropolitan area, submitting an application does not guarantee selection.
  • The stated application and service period runs through August, but recruitment may close earlier if the available budget is exhausted.
  • The selected module and number of visits will be determined in consultation with the applicant based on its current practices and goals.

Important Note About the Deadline

The latest notice from the program operator takes precedence over simplified deadline listings shown on other websites. The official guidance states that applications and consulting are scheduled from May through August 2026 and may close early when the budget is exhausted. Check the official application page before preparing a submission.

Tips Before Applying

Prepare a one-page summary of your organization’s flexible-work arrangements, maternity and parental support, caregiving assistance, gender-equality policies, and actual employee participation. Identifying one or two policies that need improvement and collecting employee feedback in advance can help the consultant set more practical goals.

Official Sources and Verification Date

This English guide summarizes information published by the official program operators. Availability may change if the budget is exhausted or the operating schedule is revised. Check the latest official notice before applying.

2026 Ulju Small Business Support: Up to KRW 3 Million for Storefronts and Digital Equipment

작성자:
Ulju County small business support for storefront improvements and digital equipment

Small businesses that have operated in Ulju County for at least six months may apply for financial support to improve storefronts or purchase digital equipment. The subsidy covers up to 90% of the supply price, with a maximum grant of KRW 3 million per business. Applications must be submitted by 6:00 p.m. on August 7, 2026.

Program at a Glance

Item Details
Administrators Ulju County and the Ulsan Small Business Happiness Dream Center
Expected recipients Approximately 71 businesses, subject to available funding
Maximum subsidy Up to 90% of the supply price, capped at KRW 3 million per business
Applicant contribution At least 10% of the supply price, plus VAT, customs duties, and any amount above the subsidy limit
Application period July 27 through 6:00 p.m. on August 7, 2026
Online application Ulsan Small Business Happiness Dream Center website
In-person application August 6–7 only for applicants unable to apply online, at Ulju County Office or the Happiness Dream Center
Selection announcement Expected August 21, 2026, through the center website and text message
Contact Ulsan Small Business Happiness Dream Center: 052-283-8390

Who Is Eligible?

Applicants must have a registered business location in Ulju County and must have operated continuously for at least six months as of the application deadline. The opening date shown on the business registration certificate must be February 8, 2026, or earlier.

The business must also meet Korea’s small-business standards. Retail, wholesale, restaurant, lodging, and service businesses must have fewer than five regular employees. Mining, manufacturing, construction, and transportation businesses must have fewer than ten regular employees.

The address on the business registration certificate must match the location where the improvements will be made. If a residence and business share the same property, the commercial area must be physically separated from the living area.

What Expenses Are Covered?

Both storefront improvements and eligible digital equipment are subsidized at up to 90% of the supply price, excluding VAT, with a maximum grant of KRW 3 million. The business owner must pay at least 10% of the supply price, all VAT, and any cost exceeding the grant ceiling.

Storefront and Facility Improvements

  • Outdoor signs, including LED, flex-face, channel-letter, projecting, and freestanding signs
  • Interior work such as wallpaper, flooring, lighting, awnings, window frames, and window film
  • Fixed product shelves and display fixtures
  • Non-movable facilities and equipment directly required for business, manufacturing, or sales
  • Desks and chairs used inside private educational institutes

Digital Equipment

  • POS terminals and POS software
  • Self-service payment systems, including accessible kiosks
  • Table-order systems
  • Serving robots

For example, if eligible equipment has a supply price of KRW 3 million and VAT of KRW 300,000, the subsidy would be KRW 2.7 million. The owner would pay the remaining KRW 300,000 of the supply price plus KRW 300,000 in VAT. If the supply price is KRW 4 million, 90% would be KRW 3.6 million, but the grant would still be capped at KRW 3 million.

How to Apply

Online applications are accepted from July 27 until 6:00 p.m. on August 7, 2026. After registering on the Happiness Dream Center website, navigate to the online application section for the business environment improvement program and upload the application, supporting documents, and photographs of the business interior and exterior.

In-person applications are available only to applicants who cannot apply online. They will be accepted on August 6 and 7 at the first floor of Ulju County Office or at the Ulsan Small Business Happiness Dream Center. Offices close for lunch from noon to 1:00 p.m. The business owner must visit in person with identification; proxy and group submissions are not accepted.

Visit the Ulsan Small Business Happiness Dream Center application website

Documents to Prepare

  • Eligibility checklist and program application
  • Consent forms for the collection, use, and sharing of personal and business information
  • Consent for use of the integrated SME support management system
  • Business registration certificate
  • Lease agreement for rented premises
  • Local tax payment certificate valid beyond the application deadline
  • Sales documentation for 2025 and the first half of 2026
  • Evidence of eligibility for priority points, if applicable
  • Small Business Confirmation Certificate for incorporated businesses

Business registration and local tax certificates must have been issued on or after July 20, 2026. Taxable businesses should prepare a VAT taxable sales certificate, while tax-exempt businesses should provide a tax-exempt business income certificate. Missing or late documents may result in disqualification.

Selection Criteria and Priority Points

Approximately 71 businesses are expected to be selected. Applicants will be scored based on operating history, sales, and the scale of their leased premises. Ties will be resolved by longer operating history, lower sales, previous support history, and lower lease deposits, in that order.

Additional points may be available to applicants who completed an eligible Happiness Dream Center academy or consulting program between August 8, 2025, and August 7, 2026; members of designated socially vulnerable groups; and people who moved to Ulju County by February 8, 2026, and have lived there continuously for at least six months by the deadline.

Who Cannot Apply?

  • Businesses that are closed, suspended, or not actually operating
  • Company-owned or franchised outlets of large corporate franchises
  • Golf courses, entertainment bars, and other excluded luxury or entertainment businesses
  • Businesses with overdue local taxes
  • Businesses that have received or are receiving specified Ulsan management-environment support since 2024
  • Businesses that have received or are receiving specified restaurant sanitation support since 2025
  • Businesses with no recent sales filing or reported sales of zero
  • Home-based, vehicle-based, or other businesses without an eligible fixed commercial location
  • Applicants requesting items directly related to goods they themselves sell or manufacture
  • Businesses unable to pay through an account or credit card in the owner’s name
  • Businesses planning to change their industry, representative, or move outside Ulju County
  • Applicants using false or fraudulent information

Important Restrictions

Do not begin construction or purchase digital equipment before receiving the official selection notice. Easily movable appliances, furniture, fixtures, used goods, and rental fees are not covered. Examples of excluded items include computers, televisions, refrigerators, air conditioners, washing machines, air purifiers, sofas, and digital signage. Unauthorized inflatable or portable signs are also excluded.

Each owner may apply for only one business location, even if they operate several businesses. Duplicate online and offline applications are prohibited. After selection, payments must be made by bank transfer or credit or debit card in the representative’s name. Cash payments and peer-to-peer transfers such as KakaoPay remittances are not accepted.

Practical Application Tips

Application traffic may be heavy near the deadline. Prepare the business registration certificate, local tax payment certificate, sales records, and clear photographs early. Keep detailed “before” photographs of the storefront, sign, and interior because they may also be required during reimbursement. Ask vendors to separate the supply price from VAT on quotations, and confirm item eligibility with the Happiness Dream Center before making commitments.

Official Sources and Verification Date

This English-language guide summarizes the official second-round announcement. Eligibility and reimbursable amounts remain subject to review and final settlement. Applicants should verify the official notice and application page before submitting documents or making purchases.

2026 Youth Culture and Arts Pass: Make Your First Booking by July 31

작성자:
2026 Youth Culture and Arts Pass first-booking deadline

If you received the 2026 Youth Culture and Arts Pass but have not used it, you must complete your first booking by July 31. If your recorded spending remains at zero through July 31, the subsidy will be withdrawn and you will not be able to reapply. New applications closed on June 30, so this deadline matters specifically to pass holders who have not yet made a purchase.

Key Facts

  • First-booking deadline: July 31, 2026
  • Withdrawal rule: The subsidy is recovered if no spending is recorded by the deadline
  • Support amount: KRW 150,000 in the Seoul metropolitan area and KRW 200,000 elsewhere
  • Final use deadline: The event or screening date must be no later than December 31, 2026
  • Important: A pass withdrawn for non-use cannot be requested again

Who Needs to Check the July 31 Deadline?

The deadline applies directly to people who received a 2026 Youth Culture and Arts Pass but have not spent any of the subsidy. The program was open to Korean citizens born between January 1, 2006, and December 31, 2007—young adults aged 19 or 20—with support planned for approximately 280,000 people.

The application period ran from February 25 through June 30, 2026, so new applications are no longer accepted. Existing pass holders can check issuance status, remaining credit, and transaction history through My Page on the official website.

Program Operator and Benefits

The Youth Culture and Arts Pass is administered by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and Arts Council Korea. It is not issued as cash or a physical card. Instead, the credit is used for online bookings of eligible performances, exhibitions, and films through participating ticket platforms.

Region Support Area
Seoul metropolitan area KRW 150,000 Seoul, Gyeonggi, and Incheon
Other regions KRW 200,000 Regions with secured local-government funding

The applicable region is based on the registered residential address at the time of application. Support is generally available once in a lifetime, and unused credit cannot be converted to cash.

What Must You Do by July 31?

The official rule is based on an actual paid booking, not merely signing in or saving an event to a wish list. Select an eligible event and complete an online booking using the pass credit by July 31. The event itself may take place later, but its date cannot be after December 31, 2026.

  1. Sign in to the official Youth Culture and Arts Pass website.
  2. Check your issuance status, balance, and previous spending in My Page.
  3. Create or verify your account with a participating ticket platform.
  4. Choose an eligible performance, exhibition, or film.
  5. Apply the Youth Culture and Arts Pass credit and complete payment by July 31.
  6. Confirm that the booking appears in your account and that the pass balance has changed.

Participating Platforms and Eligible Activities

Participating platforms listed for 2026 include NOL Ticket, Ticketlink, YES24 Ticket, Melon Ticket, Megabox, Lotte Cinema, and CGV. Purchases must be made through a participating website or mobile app; telephone and walk-in purchases are not supported.

  • Performances: Plays, musicals, classical music, opera, ballet, dance, traditional Korean music, concerts, and music festivals
  • Exhibitions: Fine art, crafts, animation, and character exhibitions
  • Films: Titles registered with a Korean Film Council code
  • Books: The official website indicated that book support may be added after August 2026; check later announcements for the launch date and participating vendors

Film use is limited by region: up to two screenings for residents of the Seoul metropolitan area and up to four screenings for residents elsewhere. If a ticket costs more than the remaining subsidy, the user may pay the difference using methods supported by the ticket platform.

Restrictions

  • People outside the 2006–2007 birth-year requirement are not eligible for the 2026 program.
  • People who actually spent 2025 pass credit were excluded from the 2026 application. Those with no 2025 spending were permitted to apply during the application period.
  • New applications cannot be submitted after the June 30 deadline.
  • Talk concerts, fan meetings, lectures, religious events, children’s or family programs, non-music festivals, and certain events are excluded.
  • Films without a Korean Film Council registration code are not eligible.
  • Account transfers, sales, use by another person, and resale or transfer of purchased tickets are prohibited.

Customer Support

For individual questions about issuance, withdrawal of unused credit, or eligible events, contact the Youth Culture and Arts Pass Customer Support Center at 1577-1968. Standard hours are 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on weekdays, excluding public holidays, with a lunch break from noon to 1:00 p.m. The official website also provides one-to-one inquiries and frequently asked questions.

Important Reminders

  • July 31 is the booking deadline used to determine first use; it is not the final event-attendance date.
  • If no spending is recorded by July 31, the credit is withdrawn and cannot be requested again.
  • Changing a performance date generally requires cancellation and a new purchase through the ticket platform.
  • Cancellation fees may apply. If a last-minute cancellation returns your spending to zero, confirm your status with customer support.
  • Identification may be required when collecting a ticket, and collection by another person is not allowed.
  • Remaining credit must be used for events held by December 31, 2026. Unused funds are returned to the national and local governments.

Official Sources

This article provides general information based on official materials. Individual issuance status, regional budgets, eligible events, and cancellation results may differ. Confirm your final status through My Page and the participating platform’s checkout screen.

Multi-Child Family Highway Toll Discount: 10% for Two Children, 20% for Three or More

작성자:
Highway toll discount for families with multiple children

South Korea introduced a weekend and public-holiday highway toll discount for families with multiple children on July 28, 2026. Households with at least three minor children can receive a 20% discount. Households with two minor children qualify for a 10% discount beginning August 22, following completion of the required system setup.

Who Qualifies and How Much Is the Discount?

  • Three or more minor children: 20% off weekend and public-holiday tolls from July 28, 2026
  • Two minor children: 10% off weekend and public-holiday tolls from August 22, 2026
  • Program period: A three-year pilot scheduled to run through August 21, 2029

The discount applies only to expressways operated by the Korea Expressway Corporation. It does not apply to privately operated expressways or trips that combine a Korea Expressway Corporation section with a private expressway. Check your planned route before departure.

How to Apply and Use the Benefit

Applications are accepted through the Korea Expressway Corporation toll website and mobile app, as well as at expressway toll offices. Households with two minor children can apply beginning August 10. Applicants visiting a toll office should bring documents that verify their family relationship.

To receive the discount, insert the Hi-Pass card registered during the application into the vehicle’s onboard unit and use a Hi-Pass lane. When the vehicle passes the exit toll point, location data from the pre-registered mobile phone is used to confirm that at least one parent is in the vehicle.

Drivers using a prepaid Hi-Pass card pay the standard toll first and receive the discount amount later through the registered refund account. Drivers using a postpaid Hi-Pass card are billed the discounted amount directly.

Three Checks Before You Leave

  1. Confirm the application opening date and discount start date that apply to your number of minor children.
  2. Make sure the registered Hi-Pass card is inserted in the vehicle’s onboard unit.
  3. Check whether any part of your route uses a privately operated expressway.

The pilot program is designed to reduce weekend travel costs for families raising multiple children. Detailed application instructions and required documents are available through the Korea Expressway Corporation’s toll service website and customer service channels.

Official Source

Source: Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport and the Korea Policy Briefing, “Weekend and Public-Holiday Highway Toll Discounts for Multi-Child Families Begin July 28,” published July 21, 2026.

2026 Resident Registration Survey: Complete It in Government24 by September 7

작성자:
2026 resident registration survey in the Government24 mobile app

South Korea’s 2026 Resident Registration Fact Survey is underway. The nationwide survey checks whether each person’s registered address matches their actual residence. During the online participation period, households can respond using the Government24 mobile app.

Mobile participation is available through midnight on September 7, 2026. One household member may respond on behalf of everyone registered at the same address, reducing the need for a home visit. However, households that include a priority verification subject may still receive an in-person visit even after completing the mobile survey.

2026 Survey Schedule

  • Overall survey: July 20–December 14, 2026
  • Mobile survey: 9:00 a.m. on July 20 through midnight on September 7
  • In-person survey: September 8–November 9
  • Participants: Everyone registered as a resident in South Korea
  • Administrators: Ministry of the Interior and Safety and local governments
  • Participation method: Government24 smartphone app
  • Household response: One member may respond for the entire household at the same address

This is an administrative survey, not a cash-benefit or rewards program. Its main convenience is allowing eligible households to verify information by smartphone before an investigator visits.

Why Is the Survey Conducted?

The Ministry of the Interior and Safety conducts the survey annually to improve the accuracy of resident registration records. The results support public administration, including welfare services and disaster management.

If the survey identifies information that may need correction—for example, a person who moved without filing a change of address or a deceased person whose registration remains active—the local government can verify the circumstances and correct the record after the required notice procedures.

Who Can Participate Online?

Everyone with a resident registration record is included in the survey. One registered member of a household may submit a mobile response for the entire household.

Where Must You Participate?

You must complete the mobile survey at your registered address. The app uses smartphone location data to compare your current location with your registered residence. Participation may fail if you try to submit from another location.

Can You Use a Computer?

No. Mobile participation requires location verification and is available only through the Government24 smartphone app, not the Government24 website on a computer.

How to Participate in the Government24 App

  1. Update the Government24 app to the latest version.
  2. Allow the app to access your location in the phone’s settings.
  3. Open Government24 while you are at your registered residence.
  4. Enter the dedicated mobile Resident Registration Fact Survey screen.
  5. Answer the questions about your household and actual residence.
  6. Confirm on the final screen that your response was submitted.

The 2026 system uses TMAP location services to display and verify a participant’s current location more accurately.

What You Need

  • A smartphone that can run the Government24 app
  • The latest version of the app
  • Location permission enabled for Government24
  • Access to the app while physically present at your registered address

The Ministry’s announcement does not require separate paper documents for mobile participation. Follow any additional official instructions displayed in the app.

If Mobile Participation Does Not Work

Common causes include trying to participate on a computer, using the app away from the registered address, blocking location access, or using an outdated app version. Update the app and check your location settings. Households that do not complete the mobile survey will be included in the in-person survey from September 8 through November 9.

Households Still Subject to a Visit

A home visit is still required if a household includes any of the following priority verification subjects:

  • A person aged 100 or older
  • A person whose residence has been unknown for at least five years
  • A person suspected to be deceased
  • A household at high risk of a welfare crisis
  • A school-age child with prolonged unexcused absence or who is not enrolled in school

Completing the Government24 response therefore does not automatically exempt every household from an in-person visit.

What Happens After a Visit?

If investigators cannot confirm actual residence or find information that differs from the resident registration record, a local-government official conducts additional checks. Necessary corrections may be made through official notice procedures between November 10 and December 7. The full survey is scheduled to conclude by December 14.

Contact Information

  • Ministry of the Interior and Safety, Resident Affairs Division: 044-205-3143
  • Government Civil Service Call Center: 110, toll-free, weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Frequently Asked Questions

Must every household member participate separately?

No. One person registered at the address can respond on behalf of the household.

Can I use the app away from my registered address?

No. The mobile survey uses location data to verify actual residence, so you must participate at the registered address.

What if I do not complete the mobile survey?

Your household becomes subject to an in-person survey between September 8 and November 9, 2026.

Does mobile participation always prevent a visit?

No. Households containing priority verification subjects will still be visited.

Is there a cash or point reward?

No. Official materials do not offer cash, points, or prizes. This is an administrative verification process.

Security Reminder

Do not enter passwords, financial information, or verification codes through unofficial links received by text message or messenger. Use the official survey screen inside the Government24 app that you installed directly. Confirm the submission-complete screen, and cooperate with a later visit if your household is in a priority group.

Official Sources

This article summarizes official information available on July 28, 2026. App screens, detailed procedures, and dates may change. Check the latest Government24 and Ministry notices before participating.

2026 Defense Startup Challenge: Up to KRW 100 Million for Commercialization

작성자:
2026 Defense Startup Challenge commercialization support

Technology startups interested in the defense sector can apply for the second 2026 Defense Startup Challenge. The program plans to select approximately 50 startups to work on collaboration projects proposed by the military and defense-industry customers. Selected companies may receive up to KRW 100 million per project for commercialization, along with follow-up support.

Program Overview

Program Second 2026 Defense Startup Challenge
Administrators Ministry of SMEs and Startups and Korea Institute of Startup & Entrepreneurship Development
Eligible applicants Generally, startups established within the past seven years; qualifying new-industry startups and SMEs may be eligible for up to ten years after establishment
Expected selection Approximately 50 startups
Support Up to KRW 100 million per project for commercialization required for collaboration with the military or a participating customer, plus possible follow-up support
Application period July 16 through 4:00 p.m. on August 4, 2026

What Is the Defense Startup Challenge?

This public-private open-innovation program connects military organizations and defense-industry customers seeking new technology with startups that can provide it. Applicants select a collaboration assignment from the official announcement and propose how their technology and business model can solve the stated need.

Who Can Apply?

  • A startup established within seven years of the announcement date
  • A startup or SME established within ten years if it operates in a qualifying new-industry field
  • A company capable of completing one of the collaboration assignments proposed by the military or participating customers

Applicants should confirm the exact establishment-date calculation, whether their field qualifies as a new industry, and which assignments they may enter by reviewing the official notice and individual assignment descriptions.

Available Support

Selected companies may receive commercialization funding of up to KRW 100 million per assignment to work with a military organization or defense-industry customer. The actual award depends on evaluation and the final agreement; selection does not guarantee the maximum amount. Successful collaboration may also lead to additional linked support.

How to Apply

Applications are accepted from July 16 until 4:00 p.m. on August 4, 2026, through the relevant announcement on the K-Startup portal.

  1. Sign in to K-Startup using the company representative’s account.
  2. Find the second 2026 Defense Startup Challenge announcement.
  3. Review the military and customer assignment descriptions and select the best match for your technology.
  4. Complete the business plan and upload all supporting documents.
  5. Before the deadline, confirm that submission is complete and every attachment opens correctly.

Documents to Prepare

  • A startup business plan using the form attached to the announcement
  • Documents confirming eligibility and the company’s establishment date
  • Consent forms and supporting evidence required in the online application

Technology requirements and evidence differ by assignment. Review both the assignment description and the online application manual.

Important Conditions

  • Companies that do not meet the establishment-age or new-industry requirements cannot apply.
  • The proposal should explain specifically how the company’s technology addresses the selected assignment.
  • KRW 100 million is the maximum per project, not a guaranteed payment.
  • Online traffic may be heavy near the deadline, so upload the plan and evidence early.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a company apply if it is not already registered as a defense business?

Potentially. A startup that meets the establishment-age rules and has technology relevant to a listed assignment can review its eligibility. The official announcement controls the final decision.

How much funding is available?

Up to KRW 100 million per assignment. The final amount may change during evaluation and contracting.

Can a company apply to several assignments?

Check the official notice and K-Startup application screen for the rules on multiple applications. A focused proposal for the assignment with the strongest technical fit is generally more effective.

Application Tips

  • Organize the proposal around technical fit, demonstration feasibility, and commercialization for the selected assignment.
  • Confirm the company’s establishment age and new-industry status before applying.
  • Submit well before 4:00 p.m. on August 4.

Official Sources

This article provides general information. Eligibility, documents, and support terms may change. Confirm the latest official notice and K-Startup application screen before applying.

2026 SME R&D Top 50 Outcomes: Applications Extended to August 14

작성자:
2026 SME R and D Top 50 Outcomes application extension

The Ministry of SMEs and Startups has extended applications for the 2026 SME R&D Top 50 Outcomes program through August 14. Companies that are completing or have successfully completed a Ministry-sponsored R&D project should review the category requirements and prepare supporting evidence.

Program Overview

Program 2026 SME R&D Top 50 Outcomes
Administrators Ministry of SMEs and Startups and Korea Technology and Information Promotion Agency for SMEs
Selection 50 companies across four categories
Extended application period July 24–August 14, 2026
Application Online through the SMTECH system
Contact 044-300-0712 or 044-300-0715; outcome@tipa.or.kr

What Is the Program?

The program identifies and promotes outstanding R&D achievements by Korean SMEs. In 2026, it plans to select 50 companies in four categories: 25 for commercialization, 17 for strategic technology, three for resilience and re-challenge, and five for public innovation. The distribution may change depending on applications and competition.

Eligibility by Category

Applicants must generally be conducting or have successfully completed an SME R&D project administered by the Ministry of SMEs and Startups. Requirements vary by category.

  • Commercialization: Companies that completed a Ministry R&D project between January 1, 2021, and December 31, 2025, with an Excellent or Standard evaluation
  • Strategic Technology: Companies that completed a Ministry R&D project within the past five years or are currently performing one
  • Resilience and Re-Challenge: Companies that have completed at least one Ministry R&D project with an Excellent or Standard evaluation
  • Public Innovation: Companies holding a valid Ministry Innovative Product designation as of June 1, 2026

The commercialization category also considers cumulative project sales and recent sales growth. Strategic Technology examines capabilities related to national strategic technologies or supply-chain stability. Public Innovation has separate criteria, including at least KRW 1 billion in public-sector sales during the past five years. Review the official announcement for the complete scoring rules.

Benefits for Selected Companies

  • Recommendation for commercialization-support programs offering up to KRW 150 million beginning in 2027
  • Recommendation for project guarantees of up to KRW 10 billion and preferential guarantee terms
  • Connections to investment, low-interest loans, export assistance, and overseas exhibitions
  • Additional points for research-workforce programs and support for recruitment channels
  • Preferential evaluation when applying for follow-up R&D
  • A Ministerial commendation and inclusion in promotional content and a best-practice publication

These benefits are not automatic cash awards. Many are recommendations or opportunities to enter linked programs, each of which has separate eligibility and conditions. Benefits may also change depending on participating institutions.

Application Period and Method

Extension Announcement No. 2026-467 lists the application period as July 24 through August 14, 2026. The original closing time was 2:00 p.m. on July 24, but the end date was later extended. Confirm the final closing time on SMTECH before submitting.

  1. Create an account or sign in at SMTECH.
  2. Open the project application menu and select the SME R&D Outstanding Outcomes application.
  3. Complete the online form and upload all required documents.
  4. Click the final Submit button and verify that the status reads Submitted or Complete.

Documents to Prepare

  • Outstanding Outcomes company application
  • Achievement case description for the selected category
  • Personal-information consent form
  • Reputational-risk declaration
  • Copy of the business registration certificate
  • Financial statements for the past three years
  • Objective evidence supporting every achievement claimed

Where applicable, include evidence of exports, investment, project-linked sales, patent indicators, production-cost savings, public sales, and awards. Companies requesting additional points for a recommendation from a designated organization should also submit the required recommendation form.

Restrictions and Important Notes

  • A company may submit only one application and cannot enter several categories.
  • The claimed achievement must have a demonstrable connection to the Ministry R&D project.
  • The 150 companies selected for the Top 50 from 2023 through 2025 cannot apply in 2026.
  • Ministerial commendations require compliance with government-award rules; a recent merit award may make an applicant ineligible.
  • Saving the form is not the same as submitting it. Verify final submission status.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can an ongoing R&D project qualify?

Yes, in the Strategic Technology category. Other categories require completed projects, prior performance, or a valid Innovative Product designation.

Does selection provide KRW 150 million immediately?

No. Selection may provide a recommendation to a separate commercialization-support program offering up to KRW 150 million. The company must meet that program’s conditions.

Is a recommendation letter mandatory?

No. A recommendation from a designated organization may provide three additional points in the Commercialization or Strategic Technology category, but it is not a universal required document.

Application Tips

  • Select the single category that best matches the company and write the case description around its scoring criteria.
  • Attach evidence for each quantitative achievement and explain its connection to the R&D project.
  • For Commercialization or Strategic Technology, check whether a designated-organization recommendation is available.
  • Confirm the extended deadline and final submission status in SMTECH.

Official Sources

This article provides general information. Application dates and detailed conditions may change. Confirm the latest Ministry announcement and SMTECH application page before submitting.

2026 Small Business Cooperative Support: Up to KRW 300 Million for Shared Equipment

작성자:
Shared equipment support for small-business cooperatives

Small-business cooperatives that operate a joint business can apply for support to purchase shared equipment. The second 2026 Small Business Cooperation Promotion call covers only shared equipment and closes at 4:00 p.m. on August 4.

Program Overview

Administrators Ministry of SMEs and Startups and Korea Small Enterprise and Market Service
Eligible applicants Small-business cooperatives, federations, autonomous commercial-district associations, and other qualifying organizations
Supported expenses Shared production, inspection, research, and similar equipment
Government share Up to 70% of the total project cost
Maximum support KRW 50 million, KRW 100 million, or KRW 200–300 million depending on the growth stage
Application period July 21 through 4:00 p.m. on August 4, 2026

What Does the Second Call Support?

This call is limited to shared equipment. It supports the purchase of production, inspection, research, or similar equipment directly required for a cooperative’s joint project. Each requested item must have a purchase price of at least KRW 3 million.

Who Can Apply?

Eligible applicants include incorporated small-business cooperatives and federations, as well as autonomous commercial-district associations. Cooperatives and federations generally need at least five members, and at least 50% of their members must qualify as small businesses.

  • Revenue-generating cooperatives and federations established under the Framework Act on Cooperatives
  • Cooperatives and federations established under the Small and Medium Enterprise Cooperatives Act whose bylaws provide for profit distribution
  • Revenue-generating autonomous commercial-district associations established under the Local Commercial District Act

Maximum Support by Growth Stage

Stage Main Criteria Maximum
Growth 2025 sales of at least KRW 10 million but below KRW 500 million, or sales growth of at least 5% but below 20% KRW 50 million
Scale-up 2025 sales of at least KRW 500 million, or sales growth of at least 20% KRW 100 million
Innovative Growth 2025 sales of at least KRW 1 billion, or member capital contributions of at least KRW 100 million KRW 200–300 million

Cooperatives established in 2025 or 2026 may be able to enter the Growth stage without sales. Some stages have additional minimum-sales conditions, so review the official notice.

Cost Sharing

National funding covers no more than 70% of the total project cost. The cooperative must pay at least 30%, plus VAT, IoT terminal installation, procurement fees, and other non-covered expenses. Equipment must be installed in a lawful location where it can be used under the cooperative’s name.

How to Apply

Applications are accepted from July 21 until exactly 4:00 p.m. on August 4, 2026. Late submissions are not accepted.

  1. The cooperative chair or federation president creates an account at Small Business 24.
  2. Sign in to the Cooperation Promotion System.
  3. Select the organization type and shared-equipment project.
  4. Enter the project budget and upload all supporting documents.

Documents to Prepare

  • Self-diagnosis checklist and business plan
  • Participation pledge and data-consent forms
  • Membership list, investor list, and bylaws
  • Full corporate registry certificate and business registration certificate
  • National and local tax payment certificates
  • 2024 standard financial statements and 2025 sales evidence

Some documents must have been issued within one month of the application date.

Equipment That Is Not Covered

  • Portable equipment such as laptops, smartphones, and cameras
  • Vehicles, motorcycles, ships, drones, and other mobile equipment
  • Equipment costing less than KRW 3 million
  • Consumables, basic tools, office PCs, and convenience facilities
  • Used or refurbished equipment, or equipment whose ancillary costs cannot be separated
  • Equipment made or sold by the cooperative or one of its members

Installation and Management Requirements

Temporary structures, illegal buildings, and unregistered buildings are not accepted as installation sites. After selection, the cooperative may be required to use and manage the equipment for up to five years. If use stops because of the cooperative’s fault, the agreement may be terminated and funding recovered.

Who Is Excluded?

  • Organizations that received this program five times between 2020 and 2025
  • Organizations under a participation restriction or with unpaid taxes
  • Organizations that are suspended or closed, or whose members are at least 50% suspended or closed
  • Excluded industries, large companies, and major-brand franchisees
  • Organizations already selected for a related 2026 joint project or sales-channel support program

Application Tips

  • Explain why the equipment is needed and how members will share it.
  • Check the lease, building register, and other evidence for the installation site.
  • Use sales records to determine the correct growth stage before applying.
  • Submit well before 4:00 p.m. on August 4.

Official Sources

This article provides general information. Eligibility and funding depend on document review, on-site verification, evaluation, and available budget. Check the official announcement before applying.

2026 Overseas Certification Support: 50–70% of Costs, Up to KRW 100 Million

작성자:
Overseas certification cost support for exporting SMEs

Overseas product certification can be expensive for SMEs preparing to export. The Ministry of SMEs and Startups is recruiting companies for the second 2026 General Overseas Certification Acquisition Support call, which covers part of eligible certification, testing, and consulting expenses. Online applications close at 6:00 p.m. on August 14, 2026.

Program Overview

Program Second 2026 General Overseas Certification Acquisition Support Call
Administrators Ministry of SMEs and Startups and Korea Testing & Research Institute
Eligible applicants SMEs with prior-year direct exports below USD 50 million
Support 50–70% of eligible certification, testing, and registered consulting costs
Company limit Up to four certifications and KRW 100 million in total
Application period 9:00 a.m. on July 15 through 6:00 p.m. on August 14, 2026
Application Online through the SME Export Regulation Response Support Center

What Does the Program Cover?

The program reduces the cost of obtaining new overseas standards and certifications required to enter foreign markets. The general-support list includes 572 certifications. An unlisted certification may also be considered if the applicant demonstrates its export relevance and need and receives approval from the program committee.

The program does not reimburse certifications already obtained before the July 15, 2026 announcement date.

Who Can Apply?

The basic requirement is an SME with prior-year direct exports below USD 50 million. Companies designated under Global Strong SME 1000+ may apply even if their direct exports exceeded USD 50 million.

Approximately 180 companies are expected to be selected, subject to budget and application volume. Applicants undergo document evaluation, with regional demand and minimum selection scores considered.

Funding Rate and Limits

Support covers a share of actual certification fees, testing expenses, and consulting fees paid to a registered consulting organization.

Prior-Year Sales Support Rate
Below KRW 10 billion 70%
KRW 10 billion to below KRW 30 billion 60%
KRW 30 billion or more 50%

Each company may generally receive support for up to four certifications and KRW 100 million per year. If the total requested amount is below KRW 35 million, additional certifications beyond four may be permitted within that amount. Certain designated medical-device certifications may qualify for up to KRW 150 million.

The final payment is the lower of the applicable percentage of actual costs or the government ceiling assigned to that certification.

How to Apply

  1. Visit the SME Export Regulation Response Support Center.
  2. Create an account and sign in.
  3. Open the Overseas Certification Acquisition Support application menu.
  4. Select General Support and complete the application.
  5. Upload all documents and submit online by 6:00 p.m. on August 14.

Paper applications are not accepted. Apply at the SME Export Regulation Response Support Center.

Documents to Prepare

  • Online project application
  • Consent for the provision and use of credit information
  • Consent for use of the integrated SME support management system
  • Valid SME Confirmation Certificate
  • ESG self-assessment report
  • For high-cost certifications, an estimate, invoice, or contract from the testing or certification body
  • For an unlisted certification, the form specified in the project guide

Direct-export confirmation, standard financial statements, and business registration may be checked automatically through connected systems. Confirm on the application screen whether any additional document is required.

Who Is Excluded?

  • Companies that are suspended, closed, or not actually operating
  • Companies with unpaid national or local taxes
  • Companies registered as delinquent debtors
  • Companies with an unfinished project under the same program
  • Companies that received or are receiving other government or local support for the same product and certification
  • Companies that received at least KRW 200 million from this program between 2021 and 2025

Exceptions may apply to certain companies with approved rehabilitation plans or a recognized need for public recovery support. Review the official notice.

Payment Is Conditional on Successful Certification

Funding is not paid immediately after selection. The company must sign an agreement, obtain the certification within the support period, and submit a completion report. It can then receive 50–70% of recognized costs within the agreement ceiling. If the company uses an unregistered consultant, consulting fees may be excluded even when certification and testing costs remain eligible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a company apply for a certification it already obtained?

No. Certifications obtained before July 15, 2026 are not covered by this call.

Can an unlisted certification qualify?

Potentially. The applicant must demonstrate export relevance and need, and the committee decides whether it qualifies.

Must a company use a consultant?

No. A company may manage certification directly. To claim consulting expenses, it must use a consulting organization registered with the program.

Application Tips

  • Confirm whether the certification belongs under General Support or Strategic Support.
  • Prepare an estimate or application receipt from the testing or certification body.
  • Complete the required ESG self-assessment before the deadline.
  • Check prior support history to avoid claiming the same product and certification under another program.

Official Sources

This article provides general information. Eligibility and support amounts depend on sales, certification type, evaluation, actual costs, and budget. Check the official announcement before applying.

2026 Marketing Support for Disabled-Owned Businesses in Chungcheongnam-do

작성자:
Marketing support for disabled-owned businesses in Chungcheongnam-do

Chungcheongnam-do is offering marketing-content support to certified disabled-owned businesses. The 2026 program covers 90% of eligible expenses for brochures, promotional videos, product-detail pages, online advertising, and similar work, up to KRW 1 million per company. Applications are accepted by email through 5:00 p.m. on August 21, 2026.

Program Overview

Program 2026 Marketing and Promotional Content Support for Disabled-Owned Businesses
Administrator Chungnam Regional Center of the Disabled Enterprise Business Center
Eligible applicants Businesses in Chungcheongnam-do holding a valid Disabled-Owned Business Confirmation Certificate
Selection Seven companies
Support 90% of eligible production costs excluding VAT, up to KRW 1 million
Company share 10% of eligible costs plus VAT
Application period July 27 through 5:00 p.m. on August 21, 2026
Application method Email submission followed by confirmation of receipt

Eligible Marketing Expenses

  • Promotional brochures and catalogs
  • Promotional video production
  • Product-detail pages
  • Electronic catalogs
  • Advertising on social media and portal sites
  • Website renewal

Domain registration and ongoing maintenance fees are excluded from website-renewal support. If a planned expense does not clearly match the examples, confirm eligibility with the Chungnam Regional Center before signing a contract or spending funds.

Funding and Company Contribution

The program covers 90% of recognized production costs excluding VAT, up to KRW 1 million per company. The company pays the remaining 10% and all VAT.

For example, if the recognized cost excluding VAT is KRW 1 million, the grant is KRW 900,000 and the company pays KRW 100,000 plus VAT. Even when costs exceed the program ceiling, support cannot exceed KRW 1 million.

The announced production period is September 1 through October 30, 2026, with payment expected after deliverables are submitted, around November 20. Dates may change.

Eligibility

Applicants must be disabled-owned businesses located in Chungcheongnam-do and hold a valid Disabled-Owned Business Confirmation Certificate. This is a business-support program, not an individual benefit based on age or income.

A company is excluded if its confirmation certificate expires during the marketing-support period. Check the validity date before applying.

How to Apply

  1. Download the notice and forms from the Disabled Enterprise Business Center website.
  2. Complete the application and implementation plan.
  3. Prepare the Disabled-Owned Business Confirmation Certificate, national and local tax payment certificates, and evaluation evidence.
  4. Email all documents to kkw@debc.or.kr.
  5. After sending, call the Chungnam Regional Center to confirm receipt.

Documents to Prepare

  • Support application
  • Project implementation plan
  • Personal-information consent form
  • Disabled-Owned Business Confirmation Certificate
  • National tax payment certificate
  • Local tax payment certificate
  • Evidence relevant to evaluation

Evaluation considers operating history, employment of people with disabilities, sales, and ESG preparation. A government award received by the company or representative within the past five years may qualify for additional points.

Selection Process

Seven companies will be selected through document evaluation. Applicants scoring at least 60 points are ranked by total score; ties are decided by the qualitative-evaluation score.

  • Business management status: 40 points
  • Need for promotional content: 30 points
  • Expected impact: 30 points
  • Government award within the past five years: 5 bonus points

The implementation plan should explain why the content is needed, how it will be used, how it connects to marketing, and what realistic results are expected.

Who Is Excluded?

  • Companies with unpaid national or local taxes
  • Companies that are suspended or closed
  • Companies selected for Chungcheongnam-do disabled-owned business marketing-production support from 2023 through 2025
  • Companies selected for Chungcheongnam-do disabled-owned business on-site consulting from 2020 through 2022
  • Companies whose confirmation certificate expires during the support period
  • Companies involved in serious misconduct or conduct violating basic business ethics

Submitted documents are not returned. Because the grant is paid after deliverables are completed, confirm payment methods and required expense evidence when signing the agreement.

Application Tips

  • Explain clearly why the promotional material is needed and how it will be used after production.
  • Connect the marketing plan to realistic outcomes such as new customers or increased sales.
  • Include evidence of any qualifying government award from the past five years.
  • Submit early, then confirm email receipt with the regional center.

Official Sources

This article provides general information. Eligibility, recognized expenses, documents, and dates may vary. Review the official notice and application forms before applying.