The Ministry of SMEs and Startups, the Korea Venture Capital Association (hereinafter referred to as the VC Association), and KAIST are accepting applications for the "2025 Korea Graduate Student Venture Investment Competition" until July 18. This competition is part of the global youth venture investment talent development program operated by the VC Association.
Last year, the Korea Graduate Student Venture Investment Competition was launched for the first time in Korea as a pilot program, with six universities from across the country participating. The team from Pohang University of Science and Technology won and represented Korea at the international competition (VCIC) held in the United States. Starting this year, with official support from the Ministry of SMEs and Startups, the program will be expanded and operated as a regular initiative.
This program goes beyond simple theoretical education by allowing participants to experience the entire process of actual venture investment through simulated investments. Participants will learn the analytical methods and investment processes of real venture capitalists through a systematic curriculum reflecting both domestic and international VC ecosystems, as well as mentoring from active industry professionals.
Participants must first complete a special curriculum that combines theoretical education and practical training before joining the domestic competition. Teams selected as outstanding will receive opportunities for internships with major domestic VCs and support for participation in the international competition (VCIC). Through this, participants can not only begin their practical careers in venture capital but also build a global network with young investors from around the world.
Recruitment of participating universities begins on June 23, with approximately 10 schools to be selected. The VC special curriculum for the venture investment teams of the selected universities will commence at the end of September. The domestic competition is scheduled to take place in January 2026, with a mock competition held on the final day of the curriculum to select six teams to advance to the January competition next year.
Kim Hakkyun, president of the association, stated, "Globalization is extremely important for a sustainable venture investment ecosystem," and added, "We will actively promote the program to ensure that the 2025 Korea Graduate Student Venture Investment Competition becomes a stepping stone for nurturing global talent to lead the future venture investment ecosystem."
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