Asan Nanum Foundation's MARU Selects 10 Startups for H2 Residency

Asan Nanum Foundation is gaining attention for selecting 10 startups that will infuse new vitality into its entrepreneurship platform, 'MARU'. 'MARU', often called the cradle of startups, is an incubator that goes beyond simple office space, providing optimal infrastructure, a strong network, and systematic educational programs to help entrepreneurs realize their dreams and grow. Currently, about 30 startups, venture capitalists, accelerators, and other key players in the startup ecosystem gather to foster a 'pay-it-forward' culture. The 10 carefully selected teams are Graybox (NotiFLY), Greeneta (Greeneta), Minglelab (Runz), Bosalpilm (Bosalpilm), Storycar (Storycar), AI for Giving (Gibu), YJ X (YJ X), GIGL (Playad), Klopp (Afternoon), and Foretell My Health (Foretell My Health). These teams were recognized for their potential to showcase AI-based innovative solutions in diverse fields such as healthcare, education, social impact, and marketing, demonstrating not only technological prowess but also the ability to simultaneously create social value and business performance. The selected startups will move into MARU180 and MARU360 starting this November, receiving full support for their growth for up to 1 year and 6 months. Optimal working environments, including team office spaces, meeting rooms, lounges, shower rooms, and sleeping rooms, will be provided, with almost no cost burden beyond minimal actual expenses for space usage. In particular, through 'MARU Benefit,' which offers up to 1.3 billion KRW worth of benefits annually, essential services for startup operations such as development, recruitment, public relations, and legal services can be utilized for free or at a discount. In addition, customized growth programs such as 'MARU Connect,' an expert mentoring program with approximately 90 mentors, 'MARU IR Matching' to assist with investment attraction, and 'MARU Meetup' for representatives are in place. Furthermore, through active community activities like regular town halls, clubs, and workshops, resident companies will share their experiences and know-how, practicing the 'pay-it-forward' culture. 'Asan Leadership Coaching' to enhance entrepreneurs' capabilities will also be of great help. Chun Sung-woo, Team Leader at Asan Nanum Foundation, stated, "We were able to meet startups creating innovation in diverse fields," emphasizing, "MARU will become a platform that actively supports their challenges, growth, and sharing." In fact, Kim Hyun-joon, CEO of Klopp, who participated in the recent 'MARU Pay-it-Forward Workshop,' expressed his anticipation, saying, "A community where we can grow together is the most important," and through MARU, he hopes to "collaborate with diverse teams and leverage the foundation's network to achieve results quickly."