(C) KBIZ

SEOUL) — The Ministry of SMEs and Startups (MSS) and the Korea Federation of Small and Medium Enterprises (KBIZ) have announced an extension for the application period of the '2026 Honors for Contributors to Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).' The deadline for nominations and applications, which recognize individuals for their contribution to the development of SMEs and job creation, has been extended until December 31 of this year.

Key Details on the Extension

The KBIZ stated that the extension was implemented to widen the opportunity for more SME contributors to participate in the prestigious awards. They explicitly mentioned that there are no further plans for additional extensions beyond the new December 31 deadline.

About the Honors Program

The SME Contributor Honors Program is the largest awards ceremony in South Korea's SME sector, targeting the country's approximately 8.3 million small and medium business owners and related personnel.

The awards ceremony is traditionally held during the 'Republic of Korea SME Week' (the third week of May each year) as part of the 'Republic of Korea SME Convention.'

Application Categories and Awards

Applications are being accepted across five main categories:

Exemplary SME Business Leader (Manufacturing)
Exemplary SME Business Leader (Distribution/Service)
Exemplary Worker
Contributors to SME Promotion
Outstanding Support Organizations (Institutions)

Following a rigorous review process, successful nominees will be granted various government awards, including:

Industrial Medals (Gold, Silver, Bronze, Iron, Stone Tower)
Industrial Merit Awards
Presidential Commendations
Prime Minister Commendations

Awards from agency heads, such as the Minister of MSS and the Administrator of the Public Procurement Service, will also be presented.

How to Apply

Interested parties can refer to the '2026 Honors for SME Contributors Application Guide (Extended)' notice on the KBIZ website (www.kbiz.or.kr).

Submissions can be made in two ways:

Email Submission: Required documents and supporting materials should be submitted via email.
Hard Copy Submission: Original documents can be submitted to the KBIZ Awards Task Force Team or the Regional Small and Medium Venture Business Agency offices nationwide.
For detailed inquiries, applicants are advised to contact the KBIZ Awards Task Force Team or their local Regional Small and Medium Venture Business Agency.