[Korea SMEs and Startups Agency]
[Korea SMEs and Startups Agency]

Up to 145 institutions across 35 countries sought; applications open through Sept. 28

21 fields targeted, including market development, retail, logistics and legal affairs

124 institutions in 32 countries currently serve as overseas branch offices for SMEs

The Korea SMEs and Startups Agency announced Tuesday it will accept applications from Wednesday through Sept. 28 for specialized institutions to join its "2027 Overseas Private Network," a program designed to support small and medium-sized venture companies expanding abroad.

The overseas branch office program allows local private institutions abroad to act as de facto branch offices on behalf of small and medium-sized venture companies that cannot maintain their own overseas presence, providing export marketing support and assistance with entering foreign markets.

The network currently comprises 124 institutions operating across 32 countries. These institutions support small and mid-sized companies with local market research, business partner identification and marketing activities.

The agency is seeking to expand the network to 145 institutions across 35 countries. Applications are open across 21 fields, including market development and trade support, marketing, retail and logistics, local legal affairs and regulatory systems, and growth and innovation support.

The agency said it will give preference to institutions with a proven track record in promising countries and specialized sectors where the network's current coverage is relatively thin. Applications can be submitted through the overseas branch office program website until Sept. 28.

"The overseas private network plays a key role in helping small and medium-sized venture companies establish a foothold in local markets," said Park Jang-hyeok, executive director for global growth at the agency. "We look forward to participation from institutions with local expertise and infrastructure."


hong@heraldcorp.com