The Ministry of SMEs and Startups (Minister Han Sung-sook) announced that it will be recruiting organizations to host the 2026 Manufacturing-Specialized Makerspace from January 13 to February 3.
While makerspaces have focused on transforming entrepreneurs' ideas into prototypes using equipment like 3D printers and laser cutters, they have faced structural limitations that have made it difficult for startups to transition to production, such as mass production design and product certification.
The specialized manufacturing model, to be introduced starting in 2026, will be redesigned to support everything from prototype production to initial mass production. Collaborating with specialized companies, it will provide integrated support for mass production processes, including design verification, process design, cost analysis, and mass production feasibility assessments, enabling startups to move beyond the prototype stage and seamlessly transition to actual production.
The number of host organizations is expected to increase from eight last year to 13 this year. Organizations with dedicated space of at least 1,000 square meters and specialized equipment and personnel can apply by forming a consortium with a specialized company. Selected host organizations will not simply provide equipment; they will build a specialized regional manufacturing platform that combines the process and mass production expertise of specialized companies with the creative capabilities of a makerspace.
Kyungwon Cho, Director of Startup Policy, said, “Makerspace will not be a simple manufacturing space, but will be operated as a manufacturing startup base that supports product development and initial mass production together with specialized companies.”
Applications can be submitted through the K-Startup website until 4:00 PM on February 3rd, and the final host organization will be selected after document and presentation evaluation.
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