Gyeongbuk Western Intellectual Property Center Begins Accepting Applications for 2026 "Global IP Star Company Development" Program

The Gumi Chamber of Commerce and Industry's Gyeongbuk Western Intellectual Property Center has begun accepting applications for the 2026 "Global IP Star Company Development" program for export-oriented companies.

The Intellectual Property Office (formerly the Korean Intellectual Property Office) and the Gyeongbuk Provincial Government have increased policy funding based on intellectual property to support export companies, aiming to help domestic businesses overcome challenges in an increasingly difficult global market.

The Gyeongbuk Western Intellectual Property Center plans to select five companies this year. Companies chosen for the program will receive comprehensive consulting support for patents, branding, and design over the next three years, which is expected to enhance the competitiveness of their export products.

The "Global IP Star Company Development" program, which began in 2024, has established annual support plans for a total of five companies each year and has been providing tailored support according to each year’s needs.

In particular, last year saw high demand for the "Tailored PM" program, which enables companies to analyze competitors’ patents and technologies to establish mid- to long-term R&D strategies, as well as for overseas rights acquisition programs (covering application and registration fees) to protect core technologies in export markets. Many companies also chose programs to develop brands and packaging designs suitable for their export destinations.

The application period for the 2026 "Global IP Star Company Development" program runs until 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 19. Applications and inquiries can be made via the local Intellectual Property Center website or the Gyeongbuk Western Intellectual Property Center.