Fueling the Next K-Content Giants: KOCCA Announces 2026 Startup Support Programs

• The Scope: 42 projects across three specialized tracks for startups in various growth stages.
• The Funding: Up to 180 million KRW in commercialization funds per company.
• The Partners: Direct collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like Epic Games Korea, Gen.G, and Naver Cloud.
• The Deadline: Applications close on April 8, 2026, at 11:00 AM KST.

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Korea Creative Content Agency (KOCCA) have officially opened applications for the “2026 Content Startup Support Program.” This initiative is designed to discover and nurture promising content startups, providing a comprehensive lifecycle support system from early-stage incubation to global scaling.

Three Strategic Tracks for Growth

1. Accelerator-Linked Support (Early Stage)

Targeting 18 companies with less than seven years of experience, this track provides up to 90 million KRW in funding. Selected startups will be paired with specialized accelerators to receive professional mentoring, networking opportunities, and investment readiness training.

2. Investment-Linked Startup Leap (Growth Stage)

This program focuses on 12 companies that have already secured at least 400 million KRW in private investment since January 2024. Offering the largest grant of up to 180 million KRW, it aims to validate marketability and facilitate follow-on investment for high-growth potential firms.

3. Leading Company-Linked Mutual Growth (Collaboration Stage)

In a move to foster an “Open Innovation” ecosystem, 12 startups will be selected to collaborate with major industry players, including:

• Tech & Cloud: Naver Cloud, Epic Games Korea
• Entertainment & Leisure: Lotte World, Samsung C&T (Everland)
• Infrastructure & Esports: Hyundai E&C, Gen.GStartups receive up to 68 million KRW and the chance to perform joint business projects, technical verification (PoC), and content co-creation with these giants.

Briefing and Application Details

KOCCA will host a formal business briefing on March 27, 2026, at 2:00 PM at the CKL Enterprise Support Center in Gwanghwamun, Seoul. This session will provide in-depth information on eligibility, the application process, and specific benefits for each track.

“Our goal is to create a sustainable growth path for content creators by bridging the gap between innovative startups and established industry leaders,” stated a representative from KOCCA.

Quick Specification: 2026 KOCCA Startup Support