대학신문방송국

HBNU Startup Support Foundation

By Jang So-yun, Cub Reporter, Junior of Building Systems Engineering

Interest in startups has been growing in recent years, but entrepreneurship is still considered both attractive and risky. Even students with promising ideas often hesitate to start a business because they lack funding or experience. As a result, many students have limited opportunities to engage with startup-related activities and are not fully aware of the various programs operated by the HBNU Startup Support Foundation. Therefore, this article introduces the Startup Support Foundation and its major programs while explaining the types of support available to students. The first category of support focuses on startup education programs, special lectures, expert mentoring, and networking opportunities. The Startup Support Foundation operates practical startup education programs such as “Pitch 5.” This program not only teaches students how to deliver effective presentations but also helps them develop “elevator pitch” skills that can attract investors’ attention in just five minutes. In addition, the “RE-mastering Pinpoint Mentoring” program gives students the chance to receive direct feedback from experts. Patent attorneys, accountants, and university-affiliated CEOs review students’ ideas and answer their questions. The foundation also regularly provides networking opportunities through events such as “IR Demo Day,” where students can connect with other entrepreneurs. Through these programs, students can better understand the startup ecosystem and build valuable connections for future opportunities.

The second category focuses on step-by-step business support for prospective and early- stage entrepreneurs. Students in the early idea stage can apply for a startup club as a team of three or more members. Selected teams can receive up to five million won for prototype development and workspace support. The funding can be used for prototype materials, meeting expenses, marketing costs, and other startup-related activities. Students can also use dedicated club rooms located in Building S5. In addition, HBNU supports students in turning their ideas into real products through its Makerspace facilities, which include 3D printers and various types of manufacturing equipment. Students preparing for full-scale entrepreneurship can also apply for the “Preliminary Startup Package” and the “Early Startup Package.” These programs provide an average of around 50 million won in funding, with up to 100 million won available in some cases. During this stage, the university assists students with practical procedures such as business registration and company establishment. Since HBNU serves as the supervising institution for these programs, students can access more information and opportunities. Detailed information on eligibility and application procedures can be found on the Startup Support Foundation’s official website. Turning an idea into a real product and bringing it to the market is not easy. Therefore, it is important for students to actively utilize the startup infrastructure available on campus. Through the Startup Support Foundation’s programs, students can receive meaningful support and develop their ideas into successful businesses.