DewCell selected for Korea’s 2026 breakthrough startup project ‘DIPS’ for artificial platelet development
- Mar 13
- 2 min read
In the final stretch of Series C fundraising, IPO preparations to follow with underwriter selection
[by Kang, In Hyo] DewCell, a developer of artificial platelets, announced on March 11 that it has been selected for the 2026 DIPS (Depth-Tech Incubator Project for Startups) program.
The DIPS (Depth-Tech Incubator Project for Startups), hosted by the Ministry of SMEs and Startups, aims to foster startups in six strategic industries and 12 emerging sectors that are expected to lead the global markets and drive the national economy, based on their unparalleled technological competitiveness.
DewCell is developing transfusion platelets, osteoarthritis treatments, and cell culture media additives based on its proprietary ‘artificial platelet mass production platform.’ In recognition of the technological prowess demonstrated by its osteoarthritis treatment candidate currently under development, the company was selected to receive support in the ‘Life Sciences and New Drugs’ category, one of the 12 designated emerging industries.
Under this selection, DewCell will receive up to KRW 600 million (approximately USD 409 thousand) in commercialization funding over the next three years. In addition, the company will be eligible for a range of follow-up support measures, including programs to promote startup growth, technological innovation R&D, and technology guarantee support from the Korea Technology and Information Promotion Agency for SMEs (TIPA).
"Being selected for this ultra-gap startup project is a highly encouraging milestone, as it recognizes the value of our technology as a 'national strategic asset.' Leveraging our artificial platelet mass production platform, we plan to expand our indications beyond the three pipelines currently under development to a broader range of regenerative therapies, including treatments for skin, eye, and muscle diseases," said Lee Min-woo, CEO of DewCell.
Conversely, DewCell is currently in the final stages of raising Series C funding round. Upon completion of the funding, the company plans to select a lead underwriter and begin full-scale preparations for an initial public offering (IPO).
