4.43 Trillion Won SME Policy Fund Applications Open from the 5th

Ministry of SMEs and Startups and Small and Medium Business Corporation Announce 2026 Policy Fund Loan Plan
Focus on Supporting Innovative Growth in ABCDEF Sectors
New AX Sprint Preferred Track Offers Interest Rate and Loan Limit Benefits

The Ministry of SMEs and Startups and the Small and Medium Business Corporation announced on January 2 that, in accordance with the "2026 SME Policy Fund Loan Plan" notice, applications for policy funds will begin on January 5.

The total amount of policy fund support for 2026 is 4.43 trillion won. The focus will be on supporting innovative growth sectors, specifically the ABCDEF fields (Artificial Intelligence, Bio, Cultural Content, Defense & Aerospace, Energy, and Manufacturing Innovation). In addition, more than 40% of the funds will be allocated for facility investment to improve on-site operations and enhance manufacturing competitiveness.

Exterior view of the Small and Medium Business Corporation. Small and Medium Business Corporation

Notably, a separate "AI Transformation (AX) Sprint Preferred Track" has been newly established to accelerate the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital transformation among small and medium-sized enterprises. Eligible recipients include companies selected for the AI Application Product Rapid Commercialization Support Project or businesses operating in the AI sector. These companies will receive preferential support, such as a 0.1 percentage point interest rate reduction, increased loan limits, and access to a fast-track process.

Meanwhile, the Small and Medium Business Corporation has introduced a "Policy Fund Navigation" service, improving user convenience by allowing companies to receive customized policy fund recommendations without consulting with staff. Furthermore, to support the growth of technology-promising companies and SMEs facing difficulties in raising private capital, policy fund support will be exceptionally allowed for technology-special listing companies within three years of listing and for companies with a credit rating of up to BB.

Kang Sukjin, Chairman of the Small and Medium Business Corporation, stated, "Policy funds should serve as the first stepping stone for the real growth of SMEs and startups," adding, "We will spare no effort in supporting the stable and sustainable growth of SMEs, especially those leading in AI and digital transformation."

Companies wishing to apply for the 2026 policy fund can do so through the Small and Medium Business Corporation website or their local branch offices. Companies based in Seoul and other regions may apply from January 5 to 6, while those in Incheon and Gyeonggi Province may apply from January 7 to 8, each for a two-day period.