AI-powered solutions to navigate and access Korea's startup funding programs
On July 10, Launch Sesame was selected as a Tier 2 winner at the Incheon Foreign Start-up Challenge (IFC2026). The early stage tech company was recognized for building a platform that centralizes funding opportunities, programs, and other business resources for startups in Korea.
As a winner, Launch Sesame will receive ₩1 million KRW to support business incorporation in Incheon and 30 points towards the D-8-4 technology startup visa. IFC2026 also provides winners with incubation space at the OASIS x Incheon office, early stage business consulting, and continued accelerator and administrative support from Incheon Technopark.
IFC2026 is hosted by Incheon Metropolitan City and organized by Incheon Technopark (ITP) as part of a nationwide initiative to attract promising global talent to enter the Korean market.
This year, the competition received applications from 108 foreigner-founded teams working across AI, biotechnology, fintech and other technology sectors. Fifteen teams advanced to the one-day final pitch event at Incheon Startup Park. Teams were evaluated by a panel of judges on their ability to demonstrate their product’s innovation, feasibility & viability, and team capabilities succinctly within 10 minutes. Ten teams (four Tier 1 and six Tier 2) were selected as finalists.
Launch Sesame is honored to be selected as one of the six Tier 2 teams. For the company, the award is an important step toward incorporating in Korea. Additionally, it’s an important piece of validation as the team continues to build a platform that makes the country’s startup ecosystem easier to navigate for international and early-stage founders.
Upon incorporation, the company plans to launch and begin beta testing on its grant discovery engine.
Launch Sesame is an AI-powered grant opportunity platform for startups in South Korea. The platform offers a grant discovery database and informative articles navigating Korea’s startup ecosystem.
Symone Gosby, Marketing & Communications Lead
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.launchsesame.com
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