The SME ombudsman said on the 9th that it will accept nominations through May 8 for the "2026 government awards for regulatory innovation for SMEs," targeting individuals and groups that have identified regulatory hurdles and achieved results in regulatory reform.
The awards have been held annually since 2022 to identify contributors who helped improve regulations on the SME front lines and boost corporate vitality. The scale is around nine honors, including presidential and prime ministerial commendations as well as decorations, with the final grades and number to be decided in September after government consultations.
Applications can be submitted by email or mail to the ombudsman support team at the Ministry of SMEs and Startups, and details on eligibility and procedures can be found on the websites of the SME ombudsman, the Ministry of SMEs and Startups, and the Orders and Decorations portal of the Republic of Korea.
The awards target individuals and institutions that helped identify and remove hidden regulations on the corporate front lines. Last year, employees of public institutions and the Korea SMEs and Startups Agency (KOSME), who contributed to establishing contract standards for linking supplier delivery prices and identifying key regulations in new industries, received awards.
Ombudsman Choi Seung-jae said, "To solve the problems that hinder the growth of SMEs and small merchants, it is important to listen to voices on the ground," adding, "We will actively identify contributors who have helped advance regulatory innovation and corporate vitality out of the spotlight and recognize their service."