JDC to Select 20 Jeju Social Solidarity Economy Groups, Up to 15 Million Won per Company

[Financial News Jeju = Reporter Jung Yong-bok] Around 20 social solidarity economy startups in Jeju that turn local problems into business opportunities will receive up to 15 million won each in commercialization funds. The support goes beyond funding, combining education, networking and publicity to help early-stage companies build self-sustaining growth.
According to the Jeju Free International City Development Center (JDC) on the 27th, applications are now open for companies to participate in the '2026 JDC Resident Support Program, Social Solidarity Economy Organizations Category' through 6 p.m. on the 31st.
Eligible applicants are social solidarity economy organizations based in Jeju Special Self-Governing Province that have been in business for less than seven years. JDC plans to select about 20 companies after review.
The social solidarity economy broadly covers economic activities that generate profits through business operations while also pursuing solutions to social issues such as care, the environment and jobs, as well as creating social value.
Selected companies will receive up to 15 million won in commercialization funds, covering as much as 90% of total project costs excluding value-added tax. Companies must cover at least 10% of the total project cost themselves.
After the funding is provided, JDC will also offer a growth program that links education, networking among companies and publicity support to help businesses continue expanding.
The program focuses on identifying early-stage companies in Jeju that are developing social value into business models and building a foundation for independent growth in the market. It is intended to support companies that have ideas and social goals but lack early commercialization funds, sales channels or business networks.
The project is being carried out in cooperation with KOSEA and jointly promoted by the Jeju Social Economy Network and New Kids Investment, both specialized organizations for startups and management in the Jeju region.
Companies wishing to participate can apply online through the JDC website's application system by 6 p.m. on the 31st.
Song Seok-eon, chairman of the Jeju Free International City Development Center, said, "We will continue to support companies that create innovative social value while growing together with the local community." He added, "We hope this program will serve as a foundation for solving Jeju's social problems and fostering a sustainable local economic ecosystem."


[email protected] Jung Yong-bok Reporter