Naver Launches Accelerator Program to Scale Smartstore Brands with AI Solutions and Global Expansion Support

Naver has unveiled a new accelerator initiative, the “Round-up League,” aimed at empowering Smartstore brands that are entering a critical growth phase. The program was announced on July 21. It is designed to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with strong brand identities and proprietary products as they seek investment and explore global expansion opportunities.

The initiative builds upon Naver’s existing support framework for online sellers, which has included step-by-step educational resources and infrastructure for both early-stage entrepreneurs and maturing Smartstore SMEs. The Round-up League builds upon this foundation by focusing on business model innovation, overseas market entry, and the integration of advanced technologies, particularly artificial intelligence.

To drive the program, Naver has formed a strategic alliance with venture capital firms, accelerators, and other investment professionals with deep expertise in platform-based business development. Naver will share its expertise in applying AI solutions and scaling technology infrastructures, while alliance members will offer specialized consulting on investment readiness metrics, data-driven funding strategies, and intellectual property branding.

The program officially launched on July 17 with a networking event at Naver’s headquarters, 1784, in Seongnam. Twenty carefully selected SMEs participated, ranging from modern K-beauty cosmetic labels and plant-based food and beverage companies to lifestyle fashion brands inspired by Korean aesthetics—all with significant global potential.

“From an investor’s perspective, this program offers a valuable opportunity to discover SMEs with meaningful growth stories and global ambitions,” said Jin-ho Park, Director at Pathfinder H, one of the venture capital firms in the alliance. “Naver’s global vision and support policies will help identify high-potential investment opportunities.”

Shin Ji-man, the leader of Impact Synergy at Naver, emphasized the importance of brand originality, saying, “SMEs with a clear philosophy and vision represent the diversity and vitality of our ecosystem, and their unique stories can become assets for success. We’re committed to supporting these companies that have strong potential but face hurdles due to limited capital, networks, or strategic methodologies.”

The full original article can be accessed via the Naver Newsroom.