NextRise 2025: Innovating Opportunities for Global Startups
NextRise 2025 is set to be Asia's premier innovation hub for startups, taking place at COEX on June 26-27, 2025. This influential event is crafted to showcase cutting-edge technological trends and cultivate dynamic startup ecosystems.
Key Players in the Event
The event is efficiently co-hosted by the Korea Development Bank (KDB), a leading venture investor in Korea, alongside the Korea International Trade Association (KITA). KITA represents a massive network of over 76,000 Korean trade enterprises, including industry giants such as Samsung and Hyundai. Together, they aim to create a robust platform for startups and innovation agencies to collaborate with top-tier Korean companies.
What to Expect at NextRise 2025
Now in its seventh year, NextRise 2025 anticipates an extensive participation of:
- More than 500 innovative startups
- Over 250 global corporates and venture capitalists
- 3,600+ individual business meetings spanning the two-day event
Last year, the event saw remarkable success, with 373 startups forming essential business partnerships and 102 startups raising a combined investment of approximately KRW 400 billion (around USD 300 million). This year's conference will focus more on significant areas such as Artificial Intelligence, Sustainability, and Mobility, introducing an enhanced 1:1 Business Meetup program to connect startups with Fortune 500 tech scouts.
Global Partnerships at the Forefront
In a significant highlight, Germany has been designated as the Country of Honor for this year’s event. The occasion will feature a dedicated Startup Germany Pavilion and a Korea-Germany Open Innovation Summit, facilitated in partnership with IFA Berlin and Germany's Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK). Alongside these, national innovation presentations from JETRO in Japan and VivaTech in France will be showcased, alongside contributions from over 20 global innovation partners.
Opportunities for Startups
Startups that wish to engage in 1:1 business meetings with influential companies such as LG Chem, Hyundai Motor, Amazon AWS, Airbus, BMW, and many more are encouraged to submit their applications via the official website by May 12, 2025 (KST).
A representative from KITA remarked, "NextRise serves as Asia's most vibrant platform enabling startups to collaborate directly with Korean conglomerates and explore new investment avenues." A German CEO who participated last year noted, "NextRise became a pivotal moment for me, enhancing my network in Seoul and facilitating the development of our upcoming MVP."
For startups targeting global expansion and innovation agencies seeking proof of concept and market validation in Asia, NextRise 2025 is an unparalleled opportunity. Post-event, companies can utilize the Startup Branch platform, receiving localized advice to establish a presence in Korea and scale operations across Asia.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is NextRise 2025?
NextRise 2025 is an innovation fair aimed at connecting startups with corporates and investors, providing networking and partnership opportunities.
Where will NextRise 2025 take place?
The event will be held at COEX, Seoul, on June 26-27, 2025.
Who are the key organizers of the event?
The event is co-hosted by the Korea Development Bank and the Korea International Trade Association.
What opportunities are available for participating startups?
Startups will have access to numerous business meetings with global corporates and can leverage resources for establishing operations in Asia.
How can startups apply for meetings?
Startups interested in participating can apply through the event's official website by May 12, 2025.
