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Busan City Opens Applications for the “ESG Leading Companies Support Program” for Venture and Startup Enterprises

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Busan Metropolitan City announced the launch of its “ESG Leading Companies Support Program” for venture and startup businesses. Applications will be accepted from April 3 to April 25, 2025.

This initiative is designed to discover and nurture venture and startup businesses in ESG-related fields by providing support for certification and capacity building.

In partnership with the newly launched Busan Technology Startup Investment Institute, the city will operate a support system that includes:

• ●ESG business training programs tailored to each company's needs

• ●Funding to obtain and maintain domestic and international ESG-related certifications (e.g., ISO, green certifications)

• ●Consulting and advisory services

• ●Support from a consultative body of 25 related institutions

The selected companies will be divided into two groups:

• ●21 new ESG companies, each receiving KRW 7 million in commercialization funding

• ●3 Level-Up companies (previously certified in 2024), each receiving KRW 8 million

This year, the city has newly established a structured ESG education program covering fundamental concepts, investment strategies, market trends, and company-specific needs.

Eligible applicants are Busan-based startups established within the past 7 years that operate in ESG-related fields. For startups in emerging industries such as artificial intelligence, big data, service platforms, and biotechnology, companies established within the past 10 years may apply.

Additional evaluation points will be given to applicants who submit plans to use the support funds for obtaining or maintaining ESG certifications.

Selected companies will receive an ESG certification plaque and will be given preferential consideration in future support programs, including accounts receivable guarantees and ESG-related special financing.

The ESG Management Support Consultative Body—comprising 25 institutions from the public, private, and academic sectors—will continue to provide intensive support to enhance the ESG capabilities of certified companies.

How to Apply
Applications can be submitted online via the Busan Startup Portal (www.busanstartup.kr) from April 3 to April 25. Full details are available in the public notice on the portal.

Quote
Nam Dong-woo, Director of Financial and Startup Policy at Busan City, stated:
"This program aims to raise awareness of ESG practices and spread a culture of value-driven management, laying the foundation for a sustainable startup ecosystem. We will do our utmost to foster a supportive environment for ESG-conscious enterprises and solidify Busan’s position as a leading startup hub in Asia."