TIPS Program Overview and Benefits
TIPS (Tech Incubator Program for Startup) is a private investment-led technology startup support program that provides up to KRW 500 million in R&D funding along with startup commercialization funds. An operating company first commits an investment, and the government then provides matching R&D funding.
As of 2026, approximately 70 TIPS operating companies have been designated, and the program accepts applications on a rolling basis. Selected companies receive not only R&D funding but also comprehensive startup support including overseas marketing, mentoring, and follow-on investment connections.
Funding Scale
Evaluation Criteria and Key Points
The TIPS evaluation is divided into four main areas: technology, market potential, commercialization capability, and CEO competence. You must accurately understand the weighting and key evaluation points for each area.
In the technology evaluation, the focus is on innovation, differentiation, technology readiness, and IP strategy. Rather than simply claiming that your technology is superior, it is critical to present concrete performance comparison data against existing technologies.
Evaluation Areas and Weights
Proposal Writing Strategy
The most important aspect of writing a TIPS proposal is clearly demonstrating technology innovation and market viability. You must present specific differentiators versus existing technologies, the size and growth of the target market, and a concrete commercialization strategy.
The key is to review the proposal from the evaluator's perspective. Write clearly enough for non-technical evaluators to understand while maintaining technical depth. Market data must be cited from credible sources.
Writing Tips
Presentation Preparation Strategy
The presentation evaluation also significantly influences the outcome. During the approximately 10-minute presentation, you must convey your key messages and prepare thoroughly for Q&A.
Prepare visually clean slides centered on key data and charts. Practice the presentation at least 10 times, and prepare answers for anticipated questions in advance.
KITIM's Support
The Korea Institute of Technology Innovation Management (KITIM) provides business plan writing and presentation coaching for various government R&D programs including TIPS. KITIM's expert consultants objectively analyze your company's technology and market potential to help craft a proposal that resonates with evaluators. With a proven selection rate of over 80%, turn your TIPS aspirations into reality through KITIM's consulting services.