On May 8, the SMBA announced that the event was organized to celebrate the successful start of 950 young entrepreneurs who joined the 16th cohort of the Youth Startup Academy, the 7th global program, and the 1st deep tech program this year.
The first part of the event featured a symposium where alumni entrepreneurs Jeong Ji-sung, CEO of SOS Lab, and Han Won-gyeong, CEO of Sunny Side Up, shared their growth experiences and insights. It also included a discussion with Gary Fowler, chairman of GSD Venture Studios, and an "Alumni Day" for networking among current and former participants.
The second part included a badge ceremony symbolizing the partnership between the Youth Startup Academy and its participants, along with a joint event to inspire passion and challenge in entrepreneurship, involving the new students and SMBA officials.
Additionally, policy advisors provided consultations on funding, workforce issues, and export opportunities through the "On-Site SMBA" initiative, covering areas such as guarantees, investments, certifications, public procurement, and international expansion.
The Youth Startup Academy, operated by the SMBA, is a leading program in South Korea that selects promising early-stage startups to assist with investment and market development, aiming to enhance their competitiveness in the global market. Since its inception in 2011, the academy has supported over 10,000 alumni.
Recently, the SMBA announced a partnership with KT&G to develop an integrated support system for youth, combining entrepreneurship, mentoring, and cultural programs to boost local economies.
SMBA Commissioner Kang Seok-jin stated, "This year, we will strengthen support focused on AI transformation, deep tech, regional innovation, global expansion, and experiential entrepreneurship to help young entrepreneurs become K-Unicorns."
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.