SMEs ministry opens applications for export consortium program

The SMEs ministry said Wednesday it has begun accepting applications from organizations to lead an export consortium program helping small and medium-sized enterprises jointly enter global markets. The initiative targets industry associations, private expert firms and support institutions that can organize groups of companies for overseas trade shows and export consultation meetings.

Selected leading organizations will receive subsidies covering up to 70 percent of common expenses such as exhibition hall rentals. The program follows a three-stage approach comprising preparation, local dispatch and post-event management, designed to support activities ranging from pre-event buyer discovery and marketing to on-site participation and follow-up domestic consultations.

Shim Jae-yoon, the ministry's director general for global growth policy, described the initiative as a useful means for global expansion. "The export consortium project is a useful means for global expansion where leading organizations provide close support so SMEs can smoothly proceed with the entire export process from buyer discovery to contract signing," he said.

Leading organizations chosen through the selection process will be responsible for recruiting member companies, conducting preliminary market research and identifying potential buyers before facilitating their participation in international events. Successful applicants will manage projects scheduled between January 2027 and March 2028, though consultation meetings must conclude by December 2027. The Korea Federation of Small and Medium Businesses will evaluate applications based on operational plans, execution capabilities and potential for generating tangible results.

The program mandates follow-up activities including inviting foreign buyers to Korea for domestic consultations and assisting with final export contract negotiations. Applications for the leading organization roles are open until October 7. Detailed guidelines and submission forms are available on the SME Expo Portal operated by the federation.