MATTER, KOSME and KHIDI launch U.S. Healthcare Stakeholder Insights Program for Korean SMEs and startups

April 13, 2026, CHICAGO, IL, and SEOUL, KR — MATTER, the premier healthcare incubator and innovation hub, in collaboration with the Korea SMEs and Startups Agency (KOSME) and Korea Health Industry Development Institute (KHIDI), has launched the U.S. Healthcare Stakeholder Insights Program to prepare a cohort of Korean healthcare companies for U.S. market success. Now in its seventh year, the program continues to evolve to meet the needs of innovators entering the complex U.S. healthcare landscape.

Through the 12-week program, MATTER will support six small-medium enterprises (SMEs) and startups as they refine their market strategy by engaging directly with U.S. healthcare stakeholders. Each company will participate in a focused insights project designed to validate key clinical, technical or business assumptions and generate actionable feedback to refine their U.S. market strategy.

Building on the success of previous cohorts, the program introduces an enhanced, structured approach to stakeholder engagement. MATTER will work closely with its network of health system and industry partners to match each participating company with the right organization to explore a specific hypothesis — helping teams quickly answer critical questions and move forward with greater clarity.

Over the past six years, MATTER and KOSME have partnered to support Korean SMEs and startups entering the U.S., helping them navigate the nuances of the healthcare system while building meaningful connections with potential partners, customers and investors. This year’s program continues that momentum with a more targeted model centered on real-world feedback and strategic alignment.

Participants in the U.S. Healthcare Stakeholder Insights Program will gain access to a suite of benefits designed to accelerate their progress in the U.S. healthcare ecosystem. Each company will engage in a series of deep-dive sessions with healthcare stakeholders to gather targeted insights for product and business refinement. Participants will also receive access to programming, exclusive workshops, resources and mentorship to support their U.S. market journey.

In addition, participants will receive a one-year MATTER membership, joining a global community of healthcare innovators. Throughout the program, they will connect with fellow startups, expand their networks and gain visibility through curated opportunities — including a final showcase where they will pitch to potential partners, investors and industry influencers.

Applications for the 2026 cohort are open through April 22, 2026. Korean bio and digital healthcare SMEs and startups interested in entering or expanding in the U.S. market are encouraged to apply.

Learn more about the U.S. Healthcare Stakeholder Insights Program.