SEMAS Recruiting New Universities for "Local Content-Focused University" Program

Nurturing Local-Based Prospective Entrepreneurs
Up to 250 Million Won in Support

The Small Enterprise and Market Service announced on January 15 that it is recruiting new universities to participate in the "Local Content-Focused University" program, aimed at nurturing local-based prospective entrepreneurs with expertise in local and convergent fields.

The Local Content-Focused University program is designed to foster promising prospective entrepreneurs with hands-on experience, centering on universities with strong capabilities in developing local content. Through this recruitment, approximately three new universities will be selected.

Daejeon Small Enterprise and Market Service building. Small Enterprise and Market Service

Universities selected as Local Content-Focused Universities will serve as hubs for on-site local entrepreneurship training and will operate differentiated local business incubation programs. Departments related to local entrepreneurship or interdisciplinary majors, minors, and linked majors can autonomously run "curricular programs," while local entrepreneurship practicums, prototype development, field training, and entrepreneurship club activities can be run as "extracurricular programs." Selected universities will receive up to 250 million won in project funding.

Students who complete the curriculum can combine their major fields-such as business administration, social and cultural studies, or design-with minors related to local entrepreneurship to develop creative business models. In addition, they will have opportunities to participate in a variety of programs, including local content entrepreneurship idea competitions, integrated seminars, and results-sharing sessions, which will help them advance their business models and network with other participants.

Eligible applicants are universities capable of establishing and operating majors, minors, and linked majors specializing in regional value entrepreneurship. Universities wishing to participate may apply through the Small Enterprise 24 website by January 28.

Park Seonghyo, President of the Small Enterprise and Market Service, stated, "The role of local creators, who generate new value by adding creative ideas to the unique assets of each region, is becoming increasingly important. I hope that the active participation of capable universities will foster prospective entrepreneurs who can lead the revitalization of local economies."