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.
- Sign in to K-Startup using the company representative’s account.
- Find the second 2026 Defense Startup Challenge announcement.
- Review the military and customer assignment descriptions and select the best match for your technology.
- Complete the business plan and upload all supporting documents.
- 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
- Ministry of SMEs and Startups Announcement No. 2026-458
- K-Startup Portal
- Information verified: July 27, 2026
This article provides general information. Eligibility, documents, and support terms may change. Confirm the latest official notice and K-Startup application screen before applying.
