The initiative, revealed on August 30, aims to increase the recycling rate of clear PET bottles. (Image courtesy of Pixabay/CCL)
SEOUL, Aug. 31 (Korea Bizwire) – In a bold move to boost the circular economy for plastics, Korea Social Investment Foundation (KSI), a public interest corporation and impact investor, has announced a 400 million won interest-free loan program for startups specializing in innovative technologies and solutions for recycling transparent PET bottles.
The initiative, revealed on August 30, aims to increase the recycling rate of clear PET bottles, which are particularly suitable for high-quality recycling due to their low contaminant content. This effort is part of a broader strategy to promote a more sustainable plastic economy in South Korea.
Beyond providing short-term business capital, KSI plans to offer a comprehensive support package including assistance with fundraising, networking opportunities, and tailored growth programs to maximize the potential of selected startups. Additionally, participants will benefit from KSI’s proprietary ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) evaluation and consulting services.
Interested companies have until September 30 to apply, with detailed information available on the KSI website.
This program is being funded through a sponsorship from the Global Coca-Cola Foundation, which became the inaugural donor to KSI’s self-raised Impact Future fund launched in February.
The Impact Future fund, created from corporate social responsibility budgets, allows the KSI to identify and invest in promising ESG-focused startups.
Korea Social Investment Foundation (KSI), a public interest corporation and impact investor, has announced a 400 million won interest-free loan program for startups specializing in innovative technologies and solutions for recycling transparent PET bottles. (Image provided by Korea Social Investment Foundation (KSI))
“Working with entrepreneurs who are making innovative efforts to expand the collection and recycling of valuable resources is crucial for realizing a circular economy,” emphasized Carlos Pagoa, CEO of the Coca-Cola Foundation Global.
Lee Soonyeol, co-CEO of the KSI, pledged comprehensive support to help selected companies actively address environmental issues through eco-friendly technologies.
Established in 2012, the KSI provides investment, acceleration, and consulting services to organizations solving social problems through advanced technologies such as climate tech and agtech.
To date, the firm has deployed a total of 66.3 billion won in loans, investments, and grants to 484 companies.
Ashley Song (ashley@koreabizwire.com)
