Use the consolidated notice to understand the overall framework

The consolidated notices for Korea’s SME technology development programs for 2025 and 2026 outline the support framework. Actual eligibility and funding conditions must be checked again in each program’s individual notice. The presence of R&D in a program’s name does not make every development activity eligible.

IRUMJAE recommends first documenting the problem the company intends to solve and the current state of its technology. Clarify whether the project concerns product development, process improvement or commercialization of technology already acquired; this also clarifies the evidence you need.

Connect development objectives to a customer problem

Record who uses the product, under what circumstances, and what losses or constraints they currently face. Distinguish the evidence you actually hold, such as customer interviews, published specifications and test results for existing products. If you have not yet met customers, do not describe demand as verified; define the questions and a timetable for verification.

A technical objective should state both the performance target and the measurement method. Put the target’s units, comparison product, test conditions and prospective testing organization in one table, and explain how you will verify achievement after development.

Set an execution scope the company can sustain

Check researchers’ available time, test facilities, partner organizations, the company’s cash contribution and the development schedule. Starting with the maximum grant amount can produce a project larger than the company can execute. Estimate costs from the necessary development scope, then compare them with the eligible cost categories and limits in the notice.

Preparation checklist

  • Evidence of company age and size
  • Current development stage of the product or process
  • Customer problem and verified demand evidence
  • Measurable development objectives and test methods
  • Staff availability and the company’s contribution plan

Sources and scope

These sources explain the schemes and application preparation. Verify eligibility, amounts, schedules and current application availability in the latest individual notice. The preparation methods described here are IRUMJAE’s practical recommendations.