Korea Startup Forum (KSF) is inviting startups worldwide to participate in the COMEUP Stars 2023 batch. Celebrating its fifth year, the program aims to support early-stage startups and boost the event’s global presence.
The 2023 batch of COMEUP Stars will be the largest ever, with 150 teams participating. The Rookie League will feature 100 teams, and the Rocket League will feature 20 teams. Besides, a new Academy League this year to promote entrepreneurship among campuses. This year’s main feature is the ‘COMEUP 100’, which includes 100 Rookie League teams participating in a knock-out competition. The top 40 teams that will pitch to a global audience at COMEUP 2023 will be determined through the qualifying round in late August.
Selected startups will receive mentorship from 10 VC firms, access to new networks, and hands-on guidance. COMEUP 2023 will be an event that spotlights both startup pitches and VC acceleration.
Apply for COMEUP Stars 2023 on the official website
The ‘COMEUP 100’ will offer differentiated benefits to the selected startups. The top 40 teams will receive perks such as 1:1 mentoring with VCs, on-site booths, and invitations to private networking events. The remaining 60 teams will receive mentoring from VCs and exclusive access to business matching at COMEUP 2023.
Startups with outstanding pitching performances will also have the opportunity for business expansion in Europe (sponsored by the Embassy of Belgium) and discounts at the DREAMPLUS coworking space. The Academy League finalists will showcase their businesses by pitching at the main event and receive 1:1 mentoring from prominent investors and access to private networking events.
Applications for the COMEUP Stars 2023 program are open from May 1st to July 2nd, and the finalists will be announced on July 3rd after thorough evaluation. Startups founded in the last 7 years with less than $1 million in total funding are eligible to apply for Rookie League. Student entrepreneurs or university-affiliated early-stage startups founded in the last 6 months can apply to Academy League. Interested startups can apply at the COMEUP official website (comeup.org).
Sungjin Choi, CEO of KSF, stated, “The COMEUP Stars 2023 program focuses on authenticating the selected startups by involving more global players.” He added,”We will make sure to prepare a comprehensive evaluation system that identifies teams with tremendous potential on a global scale.”
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