What Is the Didimbol Program?
The Startup Growth Technology Development (Didimbol) program is a flagship R&D support initiative operated by South Korea's Ministry of SMEs and Startups. It aims to strengthen market competitiveness by supporting innovative technology development for tech-based SMEs and venture companies.
In 2026, the program focuses on 12 strategic technology fields including semiconductors and AI, providing up to 800 million KRW per project in R&D funding.
Key Changes for 2026
Expanded Support Scale
Maximum government funding per project: 800 million KRW (increased from previous year)Support period: Up to 2 yearsGovernment contribution ratio: Up to 75% (for SMEs)12 Strategic Technology Fields
Semiconductors — Next-gen memory, system semiconductors, packagingArtificial Intelligence — Generative AI, edge AI, industry-specific AIQuantum Technology — Quantum computing, sensors, communicationsBio — Drug development, digital health, biomaterialsAerospace — Launch vehicles, satellites, space explorationAdvanced Robotics — Autonomous manufacturing, service robots, cobotsNext-gen Nuclear — SMR, fusion, decommissioningAdvanced Mobility — Autonomous driving, UAM, EVsCybersecurity — Zero trust, AI security, quantum cryptographyNext-gen Communications — 6G, LEO satellite communicationsDisplay — Micro LED, transparent displaysHydrogen Energy — Production, fuel cells, storageEligibility Requirements
Basic Qualifications
SME as defined by the Framework Act on SMEsCompany-affiliated R&D center or dedicated R&D departmentNot subject to participation restrictionsPreferential Conditions
Non-capital region companies: Evaluation bonus pointsWomen-owned/disability-owned businesses: Social value pointsCompanies within 7 years of founding: Early-stage startup preferenceInno-Biz certified companiesEvaluation Criteria and Selection Strategies
Key Written Evaluation Items
| Category | Points | Key Focus |
|----------|--------|-----------|
| Technical Merit | 35 | Innovation, differentiation, patent strategy |
| Market Potential | 25 | Target market size, demand, revenue plan |
| Commercialization Capability | 20 | Team, infrastructure, production plan |
| Policy Alignment | 20 | Relevance to 12 strategic technologies |
5 Strategies to Maximize Selection Chances
1. Precise Strategic Technology Matching
Design projects that precisely match the 12 strategic technology subcategoriesSpecialized technology projects are favored over generic ones2. Clear Commercialization Roadmap
Concrete step-by-step plans from R&D → prototype → certification → mass production → revenueSecuring LOIs (Letters of Intent) from potential buyers significantly boosts scores3. IP Strategy Development
Planned patent applications and linkage with existing patentsTechnology barrier construction plans4. Research Team Expertise
Relevant experience and track records of participating researchersIndustry-academia collaboration framework5. Non-Capital Region Bonus
Non-capital region companies receive up to 3 bonus pointsAdditional preference when linked to regional specialized industriesApplication Process
Register on IRIS (iris.go.kr)Review announcement and detailed implementation planPrepare project proposal (IRIS format)Online submission (by 18:00 on deadline)Written evaluation → Presentation evaluation (if passed)Final selection and agreement signingKITIM Expert Support
KITIM has extensive experience in government R&D support program consulting, including the Didimbol program. We support the entire process from proposal writing to presentation coaching to maximize selection rates.
Free preliminary diagnosis: Company analysis and suitable program recommendationsProposal consulting: Customized strategies for each evaluation itemPresentation coaching: Mock presentations and anticipated Q&A preparation