For those looking to start a new business or expand an existing one, KOSGEB entrepreneur support can be a significant advantage. However, KOSGEB assistance is not granted to everyone. To submit a successful application, certain points must be observed carefully.
Key Points About KOSGEB Support
KOSGEB, a government-backed institution, offers support to people who want to start a new business or grow an existing one, aiming to cover initial expenses and boost employment. Not every applicant receives support automatically. To qualify, applicants must meet specific criteria and conditions set by the institution. Recently, many applications have been rejected, making the KOSGEB application criteria and attention to detail more important than ever.
Affiliated with the Ministry of Industry and Technology, KOSGEB has provided critical support since its inception. To receive support, applicants must meet the program-specific criteria in effect at the time. These programs clearly outline their duration, types of assistance available, and the target beneficiaries. Among these, the most sought-after is the package known as the new entrepreneur support program.
Aspiring entrepreneurs typically apply under this package when launching activities in a new business field. It is designed to help cover the high startup costs commonly incurred in the early stages. However, new entrepreneur support applications were suspended in 2019 and 2020, and instead the Entrepreneurship Development Support Program was implemented. Applicants should be aware of this change before applying.
What Is the Entrepreneurship Development Support Program and How Is It Obtained?
The Entrepreneurship Development Support Program can be considered an extension of the new entrepreneur package. Under this program, those who plan to start a new business or expand an existing one may receive support. The program covers expenses needed for the defined business activities, making it easier to establish a business. Applicants must, however, meet the specified requirements. The first and essential requirement is participation in free training courses. KOSGEB provides course opportunities tailored to the relevant business fields. These courses run for a minimum of 32 hours and are delivered in weekly sessions. They teach participants what steps to take, which areas need attention, and many other practical topics. At the end of the course, participants who pass the exam receive an entrepreneurship certificate. This certificate is a critical element when applying for KOSGEB support.
Equally important to the entrepreneurship certificate is having a solid project proposal. KOSGEB evaluates projects and awards grants or loans when the proposal addresses a real need and demonstrates financial viability. Therefore, projects should be prepared in detail and with care.
Considerations When Preparing a Project
Preparing a KOSGEB project is the most crucial step to benefit from grants. Given the wide range of business activities today, applying with a generic or already common business idea will unlikely receive support. When crafting your project, be sure to identify the specific need it meets and how your proposal differs from existing businesses. For example, opening a conventional flower shop is unlikely to receive KOSGEB support because many businesses already operate in that field. However, if you propose a novel florist service—such as an online platform that allows customers to design and order custom bouquets—your project may qualify for support. If your project is creative, addresses a clear need, and outlines the required investment, it stands a better chance of receiving KOSGEB assistance.