Opening of 'Social Campus On (On) Chungnam Center'... Supporting Activities of Prospective Social Enterprises

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Bo-kyung] The 'Social Campus On (溫) Chungnam Center,' which supports the growth of early-stage startups aspiring to become social entrepreneurs, opened its doors on the 30th.

The Chungnam Center was established in Asan, Chungcheong Province, covering approximately 1170㎡, funded by lottery proceeds. It is equipped with various facilities for early-stage startups, including office spaces, training rooms, meeting rooms, and a social lounge.

The center is expected to become a hub for revitalizing the social economy in the Chungnam region through support for social enterprise startups and operation of educational programs. It provides office space for up to two years to 50 resident companies and offers education, professional mentoring, and counseling support.

This year, the fields of activity for resident companies vary widely, including digital restoration of cultural heritage and development of fair travel products, and they are expected to act as innovative prospective social entrepreneurs addressing local community issues.

The Chungnam Center operates various social economy-related programs tailored to regional characteristics. Next year, it plans to start startup camps, regional tour programs, and also conduct social venture education for youth.

Kim In-seon, President of the Korea Social Enterprise Promotion Agency, said, "Through the center, we will nurture innovative social entrepreneurs and strengthen related support such as startup and market access assistance so that they can grow as key players in our society."