“In our fast changing world, we want to work with entrepreneurs that understand globalization, the internet and are ready to seize the opportunities that these bring,” explains Alina Gratschner, Apora Ventures’ Managing Partner. Accelerate Korea – Berlin is a new four stage Acceleration Program for Korean startups beginning 1 June 2015. It is a specialized Cross-border Incubator & Accelerator Program designed to significantly increase the chances of a Korean Startup’s success in Berlin, Germany. It equips Korean startups with the knowledge and experience for global acceleration in Korea, followed by a comprehensive Overseas Immersion Program in Berlin.

Accelerate Korea – Berlin will be hosted by Apora Ventures, an early-stage-investment firm headquartered in Amsterdam, with full funding provided by the Korean government through KISED. Apora Ventures supports innovative, early-stage tech startups from its base in the Netherlands. It boasts a global network of mentors and support services across the world, with Google, Amazon, and many other industry key leaders as official partners.

The 4 month Program, for Korean citizens only, includes a 3 month stint in Berlin, which is widely recognized as one of the key hotspots for technology and innovation in Europe. Berlin is also a key center for Europe’s Venture Capital community with billions of dollars deployed annually within the technology sector, giving Korean startups additional impetus to participate.

Accelerate Korea – Berlin presents an incredible opportunity for startups to benefit from international business acceleration at no cost and begins with a one month pre-incubation period in Seoul to prepare them for Germany. All travel and accommodation will be covered for five Korean startup teams (2 people per team), ideally including a founder and one key member of staff. Initially, teams will learn about the German market and gain the skills required to hit the ground running once arriving in Berlin. Pre-incubation will be followed by a 3 month Immersion Program in Berlin, Germany. Accelerate Korea – Berlin is organized and run by experienced Transnational Entrepreneurs, and all Mentors and Advisors have been carefully selected for their unique skills and experience as global serial entrepreneurs. The Overseas Acceleration Program will be maximized through an ‘Alumni Support Program’ for those Graduates remaining in Germany, wishing to expanding to other parts of Europe or returning to Korea.

Applications for Accelerate Korea – Berlin are now open. All applications must be received by 15 May 2015. Apply here for Accelerate Korea – Berlin