Question 1

What is the K-Startup Grand Challenge?

Accepted Answer

K-Startup Grand Challenge (KSGC) is South Korea's flagship government-backed global startup accelerator, operated by CCEI under the Ministry of SMEs and Startups, helping international startups enter the Korean and Asian markets.

Question 2

Who is eligible to apply for KSGC?

Accepted Answer

Startups founded and led by non-Korean nationals, operating for less than 7 years (up to 10 years for deep-tech), are eligible to apply.

Question 3

What support does KSGC provide?

Accepted Answer

Up to ₩950M (US$633K) in equity-free government grants, round-trip airfare, living stipends, free office space in Pangyo Techno Valley, visa sponsorship, business incorporation support, and PoC project access with 20+ Korean conglomerates including Samsung, Hyundai, and LG.

Question 4

K-스타트업 그랜드 챌린지란 무엇인가요?

Accepted Answer

K-스타트업 그랜드 챌린지(KSGC)는 중소벤처기업부가 지원하고 창조경제혁신센터(CCEI)가 운영하는 글로벌 인바운드 스타트업 액셀러레이팅 프로그램으로, 해외 스타트업의 한국 시장 진출과 아시아 확장을 지원합니다.

Question 5

어떤 지원 혜택을 받을 수 있나요?

Accepted Answer

최대 9억 5천만원 규모의 정부 지원금(무지분), 항공·생활비 지원, 판교 무상 오피스, 비자 및 법인 설립 지원, 삼성·현대·LG 등 20개 이상 대기업 PoC 연계가 제공됩니다.

Question 6

Is there a cost to participate in KSGC?

Accepted Answer

No. The program is fully funded by the Korean government. There are no fees for participation, and selected startups receive financial support for their stay in Korea.

Annual Program Calendar

September 2026