"The one who will save disappearing local communities is you!" ... Your ideas can shape the future of the region
Hana Financial Group
Hana Financial Group and the Ministry of Employment and Labor (MOEL) are joining forces with 30 Hub Universities nationwide to launch a large-scale startup discovery project aimed at responding to the risk of regional decline and creating jobs for young people. Here, we have organized the key information and benefits that aspiring entrepreneurs may want to know about the 5th recruitment round for "Hana Social Venture University."
Q1. What is the background and purpose of launching "Hana Social Venture University"?
It was launched to help overcome the risk of regional decline caused by young talent leaving for the Seoul metropolitan area, and to nurture 1,500 entrepreneurs who can revitalize local economies through universities as hubs. By using the infrastructure of 30 Hub Universities nationwide, it is the country's first linked training program designed to create youth jobs and solve community problems through business.
Q2. Are there any eligibility requirements or special preferences for applicants?
Any young individual or team between the ages of 15 and 34 may apply. In particular, priority is given to aspiring entrepreneurs who aim to build sustainable business models using local resources or who show a strong commitment to solving community problems.
Q3. Can people apply even if they are not students at the affiliated university or do not live in the region?
Yes. The program uses Hub University infrastructure, but it does not restrict applicants by affiliation or place of residence. Even if they are not enrolled students, participants can choose a Hub University in one of the 30 universities across five regions where they want to carry out startup activities.
Q4. What does the startup education curriculum look like, and can participants receive practical help?
The program offers practice-oriented training that teaches know-how from active entrepreneurs. Over one month of basic training, participants conduct MVP tests to verify the marketability of their ideas. This is followed by one-on-one customized coaching and an advanced curriculum to maximize the feasibility of their businesses.
Q5. What specific benefits do participants receive?
To support aspiring entrepreneurs who lack initial capital, the program provides bold, step-by-step assistance. Upon completing the advanced training, all participants receive a stipend of 500,000 won. If selected as an outstanding team, they receive 3 million won in support immediately. Winning teams at the final performance-sharing event will receive a total of 150 million won in prize money, distributed by rank.
Q6. What follow-up support is available if a team is selected as outstanding during the training program?
Beyond simple completion, the program provides professional acceleration support so participants can establish themselves as real companies. A two-night, three-day "Start Camp" and industry-specific training are offered, along with close post-program management such as startup space support and networking for investment attraction to help accelerate business growth.
Q7. In which regions are the 30 Hub Universities located?
A startup network spanning five major regions nationwide has been established. Seven universities in the Seoul metropolitan area, seven in the Chungcheong region, seven in the Yeongnam region, eight in the Honam region, and one in Gangwon are participating as Hub Universities. Through this network, participants can directly experience the resources and characteristics of each region and incorporate them into their businesses.
Q8. What is the application deadline, and what is the overall schedule going forward?
Applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. on May 27. Final selections will be announced after screening in June. Selected teams will complete intensive training by July. After that, outstanding teams will receive follow-up support and coaching through November, and then take part in the final performance-sharing event in November.
In one line: "Do you perhaps have the imagination in your mind that could change the future of your region? Turn your imagination into reality at "Hana Social Venture University," the ultimate local startup program prepared by Hana Financial Group and 30 universities!"
This content was prepared by MaeKyung Biz Content Planning Team based on official announcements and press releases.
