Wilco's Successive Selections: 'Super-Gap Startup' and Linkup

Deep-tech materials startup Wilco is achieving continuous successes and drawing attention both domestically and internationally. Following the Ministry of SMEs and Startups' 'Super Gap Startup 1000+ Project', it has now secured its place in the future mobility sector of the 'Super Gap Link-up Program'. Particularly, attention is focused on this Link-up Program as an unprecedented collaboration with Continental AG, a giant in the global automotive components industry, has been established. Wilco has obtained a crucial Proof of Concept (PoC) opportunity to verify the mass production applicability of its innovative CCL (Copper Clad Laminate) using high heat dissipation paste and high heat dissipation/low dielectric material technology, in collaboration with Continental. This CCL, independently developed by Wilco, boasts unique performance (low dielectric constant Dk<3.5, high thermal conductivity >2.0 W/mK) that minimizes signal loss and effectively dissipates heat in high-frequency and high-speed communication environments. Having secured up to KRW 600 million in commercialization funds and global expansion support in April for its satellite communication and defense material technology, Wilco gained recognition for its radar module material development capabilities in June, emerging as a key player in this Link-up Program. Through this, Wilco plans to solidify its position as a highly reliable material for critical electronic components of future mobility, such as HUDs (Head-Up Displays), HPCs (High-Performance Computers), and radar modules. Given that the Continental Group has an active collaboration network with finished vehicle manufacturers and Tier 1 suppliers, this PoC is expected to become a crucial bridgehead for Wilco's entry into the global market. Park Sang-won, CEO of Wilco, expressed his ambition, stating, "We will secure technological independence and price competitiveness in the domestic market by localizing substrate materials for electronic components, which have historically relied on expensive imported products." He further conveyed strong anticipation, saying, "The collaboration with Continental will serve as a critical turning point to prove the mass production potential of Wilco's materials and transition them to actual mass production, as well as a cornerstone for leaping into the global market."