[TIPA]
[TIPA]

Defense, 12 national strategic tech sectors targeted; applications open through Sept. 28

438 companies applied to last year's program; 17 earned in-person IR slots

Small and medium-sized enterprises with technologies in defense, semiconductors, AI and other national strategic sectors will have a chance to pitch for investment from Industrial Bank of Korea and Hana Bank.

The Korea Technology and Information Promotion Agency for SMEs (TIPA) said Thursday it is accepting applications through Sept. 28 from SMEs in defense and the 12 national strategic technology sectors for its "2026 6th SME R&D Dedicated Bank Investment Support Program."

The program helps SMEs that have received government R&D support turn their technology development results into commercialization and investment. TIPA operates the program in partnership with Industrial Bank of Korea and Hana Bank, the designated banks for SME R&D fund deposits.

Eligible companies must operate in defense or one of the 12 national strategic technology sectors, which include semiconductors and displays, secondary batteries, advanced mobility, next-generation nuclear power, advanced biotech, space and aerospace, hydrogen, cybersecurity, AI, next-generation communications, advanced robot manufacturing and quantum technology.

Applications can be submitted through the SME technology development project integrated management system. TIPA plans to review eligibility in early October, conduct a written review by the dedicated banks and notify selected companies within the same month. The sixth investment roadshow is scheduled for late October.

"Attracting investment for outstanding SMEs with defense and national strategic technologies leads not only to their innovative growth but also to enhanced national R&D competitiveness," TIPA President Kim Young-shin said. "We hope many capable SMEs looking to take their growth to the next level will show interest and participate."


hong@heraldcorp.com