Gyeonggi agency to support small manufacturers seeking US market entry

The Gyeonggi Small Manufacturer Agency, known as GSMA, announced Monday it is recruiting small manufacturers to join the "Gyeonggi Province Small Manufacturer Overseas Pioneer Corps."

The program is designed to help small manufacturers break into overseas markets through participation in ASD Market Week, North America's largest consumer goods trade show, held in Las Vegas. Applications are open through June 24, with a total of six companies to be selected.

ASD Market Week runs for three days from Aug. 25 to Aug. 27. Selected participants will receive support covering booth fees, setup costs and logistics expenses.

To help chosen manufacturers conduct business smoothly on the ground, GSMA plans to provide comprehensive support — including pre-departure training, professional interpretation and translation services, local transportation and buyer-matching consultations — worth up to 8 million won (about $5,260) per company.

Participants will also receive incentives, including bonus points when applying for GSMA small manufacturer support projects in 2027.

Eligibility is open to small manufacturers based in Gyeonggi Province that are engaged in manufacturing and employ fewer than 10 full-time workers.

"We hope the overseas pioneer corps program will serve as a new breakthrough for small manufacturers in the province who have struggled to find pathways into foreign markets," GSMA head Kim Min-cheol said.