Google is recruiting developers for the eighth cohort of its startup support initiative, the Changgu Program.
Google announced on the 23rd that Google Play will accept applications for the Changgu Program's eighth cohort from February 27 through March 16.
Launched in 2019, the Changgu Program supports domestic mobile app and game startups in expanding overseas and growing their businesses. The program is jointly operated by Google Play, the Ministry of SMEs and Startups, and the Korea Institute of Startup & Entrepreneurship Development. A total of 660 Korean startups have participated through the seventh cohort. The program has produced the most graduate companies among AroundX, the government's public-private partnership startup support initiative, establishing itself as a leading startup support program in Korea.
Developers selected for the eighth cohort will receive various forms of support and benefits from Google Play for overseas market entry, monetization, and service enhancement. Key offerings include growth support seminars covering monetization and marketing strategies, one-on-one in-depth consulting for overseas market strategy and technology advancement, "Changgu Alumni Day" networking events bringing together graduate developers with VCs and publishers, VC office hours for investment consultation, and cloud credits for app development and deployment.
Support for AI-based innovative developers will be strengthened in step with the artificial intelligence era. Google Play provides AI-specialized training and workshop programs for participating companies utilizing AI technology. This year, the company plans to expand various sessions and event participation opportunities to help startups leverage and apply Google's latest AI technologies and tools to their businesses.
Outstanding participants can gain global market insights, learn marketing strategies, and network with local investors and institutions through the Immersion Trip global training program. They may also participate in Google Play's brand advertising and performance campaigns.
The eighth cohort targets mobile app and game developers with less than seven years in business as of the announcement date, or AI technology-based mobile app and game developers with less than ten years in business. Detailed requirements and application procedures are available on the K-Startup portal.