Domestic AI Startups Explore Potential for Growth Amidst Global Competition Can South Korean AI startups secure competitiveness in the global market? In this regard, the recent support measures announced by the Ministry of SMEs and Startups (MSS) can be seen as a practical platform designed for the successful entry of domestic startups into the global arena. To foster global market competitiveness and attract investment for Korean startups, the MSS announced the '2026 Investment-Linked Overseas Market Entry Program,' planning to provide approximately 80 million won in total support to about 20 companies. This policy goes beyond mere financial aid, promoting infrastructure provision and international networking, thereby laying the groundwork for startups to thrive in global competition. The landscape of the global AI market is currently undergoing rapid transformation. The AI industry is not only growing around big tech companies but also driven by the technological diffusion of innovative startups. In this environment, it has become not an option but a necessity for Korean startups to enter the global stage and demonstrate their competitiveness. In particular, AI technology is emerging as a core technology capable of shifting paradigms across all industries, attracting worldwide attention. Cho Kyung-won, Director-General for Startup Policy at the MSS, emphasized, "In a fiercely competitive AI sector, it is necessary to establish a foundation for capable domestic AI startups to expand overseas and compete." The MSS program supports domestic startups with the resources and networks needed for global expansion, selecting companies through two main methods: 10 companies chosen via recommendations from host organizations and overseas investors, and another 10 selected through a separate open call. Eligible participants for this program are AI industry startups within 10 years of establishment that wish to enter overseas markets and attract investment, specifically promising startups developing and commercializing AI technology domestically. The application method involves startups applying directly through the 'K-Startup' website, with applications open from March 31st. This signifies that application submissions begin today, opening a significant door of opportunity for entrepreneurs in the AI sector. Furthermore, the MSS plans to host a startup opportunity briefing session at 9 PM on the 9th of next month at Orange Planet in Gangnam-gu, Seoul. This session is expected to provide detailed information on the program's specifics, eligibility requirements, selection process, and benefits offered. Startup representatives and stakeholders interested in participating will be able to obtain accurate information about the program and formulate their application strategies through this briefing. Selected companies will participate in an intensive 5-week training program in the United States, gaining opportunities to test their technology in the global market and meet with investors. This on-site program will go beyond mere education, serving as a practical training and networking platform for actual market entry. Operating in the U.S. for a relatively long period of five weeks, startups will gain invaluable experience in understanding local market characteristics, identifying potential customers and partners, and localizing their business models. The provision of at least three IR (Investor Relations) opportunities is a particularly tangible benefit, directly connecting them with international networks and serving as a crucial step in increasing their chances of attracting funding from investors. The MSS announced its plan to operate a specialized investment-attraction-focused program to help selected companies secure actual investments. This means not just providing IR opportunities, but systematically supporting the entire investment attraction process, including preparing compelling pitching materials, training in presentation techniques, and developing investment negotiation strategies. Indeed, to make a good impression and secure investment commitments in meetings with overseas investors, technical prowess alone is insufficient; understanding global investment market practices and investor expectations is essential. Furthermore, this program focuses on validating the technological momentum of domestic companies to operate in the global market through overseas demonstration support. Overseas demonstration is a process of verifying the technological capabilities of AI products and services in local markets, involving crucial steps such as assessing product localization and operational feasibility, and identifying demand within target markets. For instance, if an AI medical technology developed by a Korean startup successfully operates in the U.S. market, it can provide additional credibility to overseas investors and serve as an opportunity to build a promising ecosystem. The overseas demonstration process involves u
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