What Is the Regional Specialized Industry Development Program?
The Regional Specialized Industry Development Program is a government support initiative designed to strengthen corporate competitiveness around each region's key industries and to revitalize local economies. It is jointly funded by the central government and local governments through a matching fund structure.
Each region has designated specialized industries, and SMEs located in those regions can access various benefits including R&D support, workforce training, marketing assistance, and infrastructure development. As of 2026, over 100 specialized industries are designated and operating across all 17 metropolitan and provincial governments nationwide.
Examples of Regional Specializations
Support Content and Benefits
The support provided by the Regional Specialized Industry Program falls into four main areas: technology development, workforce training, market development, and infrastructure building. Companies can participate in multiple programs according to their needs.
Technology development support funds R&D projects in specialized industry fields, with up to KRW 200 million per project. Workforce training operates professional education and training programs to develop specialists in the specialized industry fields.
Application Procedure
To participate in the Regional Specialized Industry Program, you must first check announcements from the local Technopark or regional innovation agency. Announcements are typically posted at the beginning of the year, and applications are submitted through an online system.
When preparing the application, you must clearly demonstrate how your company's technological capabilities and business goals align with the regional specialized industry. Contribution to the regional industrial ecosystem and plans for building local collaboration networks are also important evaluation factors.
Application Steps
Strategy for Successful Participation
To be selected for a Regional Specialized Industry Program, you must demonstrate that your company's technology can make a tangible contribution to the development of the regional specialized industry. It is important to present a vision that contributes not just to your company's growth but to the development of the entire regional industrial ecosystem.
Building a collaboration network with local universities, research institutes, and other companies—and reflecting this in your proposal—can serve as a bonus factor. Plans for local job creation also positively influence evaluations.
KITIM's Support
The Korea Institute of Technology Innovation Management (KITIM) provides comprehensive consulting for participating in Regional Specialized Industry Programs. From company capability analysis and program matching to business plan writing and presentation preparation, KITIM supports the entire process. Leveraging its network with regional Technoparks and innovation agencies, KITIM helps ensure effective program participation.