The Advance Biotech Grant Program is designed to understand and support the challenges faced by Korea's promising biotech and synthetic new drug startups. This initiative aims to discover and empower emerging companies in the field.
Join the journey toward next-generation drug development and commercialization, supported by Merck, a leading science and technology company, and K-BioLab Hub, a program initiated by the Ministry of SMEs and Startups.
Selected startups will receive a total of KRW 350 million worth of Merck Process Solutions products1 and services2, along with access to K-BioLab Hub’s membership program3.
Winners will also be invited to present their companies during the award ceremony on a special stage at BIOPLUS-INTERPHEX 2025.
Award Categories
- Merck Grand Award (1 winner – approx. KRW 170 million)
- Awarded to an innovative biotech/synthetic drug company with outstanding molecule R&D and production process capabilities.
- Merck Excellence Award (1 winner – approx. KRW 100 million)
- Awarded to a company developing novel modalities (ADC, viral gene therapy, pDNA, mRNA, new DDS, etc.) with promising molecules.
- Merck Best-in-class Award (1 winner – approx. KRW 35 million)
- Awarded to a company developing traditional modalities (synthetic API, mAb, recombinant proteins, vaccines, etc.) with promising molecules.
- Merck Impact Award (1 winner – approx. KRW 18 million)
- Awarded to an early-stage biotech/synthetic drug developer with a promising molecule and ongoing R&D.
Prize Details
Merck Process Solutions Products1:
- Chemicals, cell line research licenses, media, filters, chromatography resins, filter holders, 2D bags, etc.
Merck Process Solutions Services2:
- Customized process development training
K-BioLab Hub Membership3:
- Programs supporting acceleration, investment networking (IR), and collaboration
Judging Panel
- Bioprocessing experts from Merck Life Science
Eligibility
- Companies developing new drugs based in South Korea
Key Dates
- Companies developing new drugs based in South Korea
- Application Period: June 2 – August 21, 2025
- Finalist Selection: Late August 2025
- Finalist Presentations: Early September 2025
- Winner Announcement: Early September 2025
- Award Ceremony: October 16, 2025
(*Dates are subject to change.)
Judging Criteria
- Scientific, societal, and economic impact and potential of the platform technology and molecules
- Level of research innovation and development/clinical stage of the platform/molecules
- Potential to overcome current challenges in R&D and bioprocessing
How to Apply
- Download and complete the application form
- Submit the form via email to AdvanceBio_Grant_KR@merckgroup.com by August 21, 2025
- Click the “Apply Now” button on the top of the page to agree to the privacy terms and official rules