Samsung Electronics is set to discover and foster the next generation of innovative startups with its ‘C-Lab Outside’ program, now in its seventh year. From July 22 to August 14, startups across South Korea can apply for this prestigious opportunity via the Samsung Electronics C-Lab homepage.
The program seeks startups specializing in eight cutting-edge fields: AI, Robotics, IoT Devices, Digital Health, Contents & Services, Mobility, Materials/Components, and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance). This wide-ranging selection reflects Samsung’s commitment to staying ahead of global technology trends and fostering potential collaboration areas.
Eligible applicants must be registered as corporations in Korea and at the investment stage Series B or lower. The selection process will take place across four major regions: Seoul, Daegu, Gyeongbuk, and Gwangju, ensuring a nationwide reach.
Comprehensive Support and Collaboration Opportunities
Since its inception in 2018, ‘C-Lab Outside’ has provided startups with extensive support, including business cooperation opportunities with Samsung Electronics and specialized consulting to enhance business competitiveness. Selected startups may engage in Proof of Concept (PoC) projects and business meetings with relevant Samsung divisions, fostering direct collaboration.
A prime example of such collaboration is ‘Pinpoint (PNPT),’ a space service startup from the 6th ‘C-Lab Outside,’ currently working with Samsung to deliver a mobile solution for a smart space experience via Samsung’s ‘b. IoT building integration solution.
This year, Samsung Electronics has introduced the ‘C-Lab Outside Consulting’ program in partnership with the Samsung Electronics Symbiotic Cooperation Academy. This program pairs startups with experts in six fields, including software, organization, human resources, and finance, for intensive 3-4 month coaching sessions. These mentor experts help startups identify areas for improvement and enhance their overall competitiveness.
Moreover, the Creative Problem Solving (CPS) program from Samsung Human Resources Development Institute offers startups consulting on customer experience, technology development, and business strategy, driving tangible business results. Eunseong Lee, CEO of PHLOX, praised the program, stating, “It was a valuable opportunity to hear actual customer needs and feedback on our platform,” which led to significant service upgrades.
Incentives and Long-term Support
Startups selected for ‘C-Lab Outside’ will receive up to 100 million won in business support funds without the requirement of equity acquisition, dedicated workspace, opportunities to participate in major IT exhibitions like CES, and access to Samsung Electronics’ patents.
Samsung Electronics President and Head of the Management Support Office, Park Hak-kyu, expressed optimism about the program, saying, “We look forward to the participation of many innovative startups that will grow into global unicorn companies together with Samsung Electronics C-Lab.”
Since introducing the ‘C-Lab Inside’ program in 2012 to encourage a creative organizational culture, Samsung has fostered a robust startup ecosystem. The 2018 launch of ‘C-Lab Outside’ expanded this vision to support external startups, creating quality jobs and boosting the domestic startup landscape.
Through its ‘C-Lab Family’ system, Samsung ensures continuous cooperation and support for startups even after graduation from the program. To date, Samsung has nurtured a total of 912 ventures, both in-house and external, showcasing its unwavering commitment to innovation and collaboration.
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