South Korea’s Ministry of SMEs and Startups (MSS) is seeking about 50 industry partners for its “Challenge for All – Defense” open innovation program, increasing support for emerging businesses developing technologies for the defense sector.
The program connects selected firms with other established enterprises to build and validate tactical solutions, supplying up to 100 million won ($67,500) for proof-of-concept projects and prototype development.
They may also qualify for follow-on government research and commercialization programs worth up to 600 million won ($405,500), depending on project requirements.
The selection process includes document screening, one-on-one meetings with the military and suppliers, and an evaluation of proposed collaboration plans before finalists are chosen.
Firms are invited to submit applications until early August.
The latest round marks an expansion after Seoul selected 10 companies in the initiative’s first phase in March, according to local media.
Embracing ‘Commercialization and Subsequent Growth’
MSS noted that the initiative aims to help startups demonstrate and field their technologies in operational environments while giving warfighters faster access to innovative solutions.
The agency cited growing global defense spending, which the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute said reached a record $2.718 trillion in 2024, as demand for defense innovation continues to rise.
“As the defense sector demands high reliability and verification, opportunities for demonstration and experience collaborating with demand agencies are crucial for startups to enter the market.” Yonhap News Agency quoted MSS Startup Policy Director Cho Kyungwon as saying.
“Through this project, we will connect the infrastructure of the military and demand companies with the innovative technologies of startups and provide support to facilitate commercialization and subsequent growth.”
