Global Innovation Forum Advances Startup Collaboration Across Seven Countries at CES 2026

Global Innovation Forum 2026: A Milestone in Startups Collaboration

On January 7, 2026, the Global Innovation Forum (GIF) successfully concluded at the CES 2026 in Las Vegas. This international event marked an essential milestone for startup ecosystems from seven different countries, demonstrating significant progress in fostering innovation and collaboration among startups.

Hyun Woo Kim, the President and CEO of the Seoul Business Agency (SBA), expressed his excitement at the event, highlighting its role in connecting diverse startup ecosystems and paving the way for future partnerships. "Today, we have come together to celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit and create meaningful exchanges that can lead to groundbreaking ideas and innovations," stated Kim during his welcome address.

The GIF originated from the Seoul Innovation Forum in 2025, which included representatives from five countries and aimed to utilize CES as a platform for cross-border collaboration. The event transitioned from a focus on individual exhibitions to a more inclusive approach, gathering national pavilions under one roof to enhance international cooperation. This initiative was well-received, leading to the expansion of the forum and its rebranding to the Global Innovation Forum.

This year’s event showcased startups from diverse backgrounds, each presenting innovative technologies that reflect their country's unique capabilities. Moreover, representatives engaged in an IR pitching competition, allowing them to demonstrate their ideas and business models to venture capitalists and industry experts.

Kim further commended the innovative efforts observed, stating that each participating nation exhibited remarkable strengths through their cutting-edge technologies. He encouraged the attendees to see today’s exchanges as an opportunity to forge robust partnerships that can grow in the future.

During the event, the judging panel was broadened to include not just media representatives but also respected professionals from the venture capital domain. This enhancement added credibility to the competition and increased the potential for investment in the showcased startups.

From the evaluations, Firsthabit, representing the Seoul Business Agency, won the Grand Award, while Hua Tec International from TTA secured the Scale-up Award, and CubicSpace from the Quebec Government Office earned the Impact Award. These honors not only highlight individual achievements but also emphasize the collaborative spirit that the forum promotes.

The Global Innovation Forum furthermore built on the positive feedback from its inaugural event last year, solidifying its reputation as a platform that fosters deeper international cooperation and sustainable growth through startup exchange. It has positioned the Seoul Business Agency as a crucial facilitator connecting Seoul’s startup ecosystem with global innovation hubs.

In summary, the Global Innovation Forum 2026 was not just a networking event; it was a celebration of innovation and collaboration that looks to shape the future of startups globally. As the participants left the event, the hope is that the inspiration and ideas shared will lead to fruitful partnerships and continued innovation in the international startup landscape. The SBA remains committed to nurturing these connections and helping propel startups toward accelerated growth and global success.