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NextRise 2025: Asia's Premier Innovation Fair

Scheduled for June 26-27, 2025, at COEX in Seoul, NextRise 2025 promises to be Asia's most significant innovation fair. This event is a vital hub for global startups looking to showcase their pioneering ideas and technologies. The fair, organized by the Korea Development Bank and the Korea International Trade Association, has established itself as a powerful platform for dynamic startup and innovation collaborations. With an expected participation of over 500 startups and 250 global companies, including venture capitalists, this year’s NextRise expands its focus on artificial intelligence, sustainability, and mobility—key areas shaping the future of technology.

A Look Back: NextRise 2024

In 2024, the event proved to be groundbreaking, leading to 373 startups establishing business partnerships, and securing approximately 400 billion KRW (around 300 million USD) in investments. The impressive dynamics of the event included more than 3,600 business meetings across just two days, demonstrating the fair's potential to cultivate lucrative collaborations.

Highlights of NextRise 2025

NextRise 2025 promises an enriched program aimed at fostering business connections within the startup landscape. This year’s edition will feature an enhanced business meetup program linking startups with tech scouts from Fortune 500 companies. With Germany being designated as the guest country, attendees can look forward to the Startup Germany Pavilion, alongside the Korea-Germany Open Innovation Summit, in collaboration with the IFA Berlin and Germany’s Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Protection.

Opportunities for Startups

NextRise also serves as an essential platform for startups aiming to expand internationally or explore proof-of-concept and market validation opportunities within Asia. Interested startups should apply by May 12, 2025, to participate in 1-on-1 business discussions with major players, including LG Chem, Hyundai Motor, Amazon AWS, Airbus, and BMW. Last years' participants reported significant networking benefits and direct impacts on their projects, highlighting the critical role of NextRise in advancing their ventures in the competitive landscape.

Looking Ahead

For organizations pursuing global growth, NextRise 2025 stands as the go-to event where innovation meets opportunity. Following the fair, participants can utilize the Startup Branch platform for guidance on establishing a presence in South Korea and further scaling operations across the Asian market. It is not just an exhibition; it is a gateway for tomorrow's innovators and industry leaders to shape the future.

In summary, NextRise 2025 is more than just an event—it's a launchpad for the ideas that will transform industries and craft new opportunities. As we count down to June 2025, one thing is sure: NextRise will continue to be a defining moment for startups on their journey to success.