The Ministry of SMEs and Startups said on the 12th that it has finalized the selection of 130 first-pass winners who proposed innovative ideas to change the world through the “Everyone’s Startup” fast-track review.
A surge from young people and non-metropolitan areas… AI technology integration draws attention
This “Everyone’s Startup” fast-track review is a tailored system introduced to prevent delays in screening caused by an overwhelming number of applicants and to ensure there is no disruption to the incubation schedule. Among the 49 fast-track review institutions nationwide, 38 completed their reviews first, selecting a total of 130 entrepreneurs.
Looking at the backgrounds of the selected entrepreneurs, the group consists of 102 in the general and technology categories and 28 in the local category. In particular, 44 winners—33.8% of all successful applicants—incorporated artificial intelligence (AI) technology into their startup ideas, reflecting the latest technology trends. They also demonstrated the strong momentum behind balanced regional development and youth entrepreneurship, with young applicants aged 39 and under accounting for 63.8% (83 people) and entrepreneurs from non-metropolitan regions accounting for 72.3% (94 people).
From solving social problems to shared local growth—standout innovative ideas
In this round of review, a large number of innovative ideas were uncovered that go beyond simply generating profits and instead aim to solve social issues and promote shared growth across regions. In the technology category, a first foreign applicant was selected with a proposal for a customized Korea study-prep platform for international students from non-English-speaking countries, and high evaluations were given to attempts to address urban challenges, such as a sinkhole early-detection system using vehicle driving data.
So-called “expert-type entrepreneurship,” built on extensive hands-on experience, also drew attention. Smart water-supply pipeline automatic cleaning and diagnostics systems containing on-site know-how accumulated over 20 years or more, along with an internal hacking source-tracking system to identify the root of information leakage prevention, were cited as representative successful models.
In the local category, ideas focused on revitalizing the local economy stood out. Projects included establishing local combined cultural spaces that combine literature and traditional liquor to strengthen the self-sustainability of independent bookstores, as well as a vacuum repacking business that enhances the commercial value of agricultural and seafood products in traditional markets.
Han Sung-sook, Minister of the Ministry of SMEs and Startups, said, “The winners who pass this fast-track review will become the first beacon illuminating the long journey ahead with ‘Everyone’s Startup.’” She added, “Until the application deadline, we will carry out fast-track reviews by each institution without any setbacks, support nationwide startup challenges, and spread the passion for innovation.”