The K-Startup Grand Challenge is a government-backed startup acceleration program designed to help international startups enter and grow in the Korean market. The initiative provides selected global startups with opportunities to engage with Korea’s startup ecosystem, explore business partnerships, and potentially establish a local presence.
Application Details
• Application Deadline: June 17, 2026, at 15:00 KST (UTC+9).
• Estimated Time to Complete: 15–20 minutes.
Submission Requirements
• Basic Startup Information: Applicants must provide details about their startup, current status, motivation for applying, and representative information.
• Founder Video: A two-minute elevator pitch from the prospective program participant is required, submitted as an MP4 file or YouTube link.
• Optional Pitch Deck: Applicants may submit a pitch deck if one is available.
Program Participation
• Korean Legal Entity: Selected startups may establish a Korean legal entity through the program.
• Program Representative: Support for entity registration is based on the Program Representative, usually the CEO or founder, listed in the application.
• Program Format: Participation is hybrid, with some activities requiring physical presence in Korea.
Special Considerations
• Embassy Recommendation Track: Startups recommended by embassies or partner organizations may receive additional consideration during evaluation.
This program offers a structured pathway for international startups to explore, enter, and potentially establish operations in the Korean market with support from a government-backed initiative.